When you have to write an essay to make argument on a specific topic, you should give the other side’s opinion first, and then give YOUR own opinion.
1. Give the other side’s opinion
Use the following phrases to give the other side’s opinion. You don’t have to say exactly who has that opinion, just say something in common.
Some people think that…
Although many people feel that…
It is claimed that…
Some people feel that…
For example:
- Some people think that shops should not be allowed to sell food or drinks that are scientifically proven to be bad for people’s health.
- Although many people feel dissatisfied with some aspect of their appearance, these concerns usually don’t constantly occupy their thoughts or cause them to feel tormented.
- It is claimed that they cannot attend because of cultural differences and language barriers.
2. One sentence (While, although, despite)
Use one sentence to give your opinion opposite to the other side’s. You should use “While“, “Although” or “Dispite” in a complex sentence.
While it is true that… … I believe…
Despite the fact that millions of people die every year from lung cancer, many people think it is cool to smoke.
Although many people think that…., I feel that
Although it is often said that…, in fact the opposite is true
3. Two sentences
It is easier to write a simple sentence than a complex sentence. You can divide the one-sentence argument to two-sentence argument. Use “However” to start the second sentence.
It is undoubtedly true that… …However…
It is often argued that… However, it is
Some people say that… They claim… However, I feel…
Supporters of this viewpoint say that… However, it is
Now let’s look at a sample Essay writing on an argument
Education: Still invaluable!
In the past, degrees were very unusual in my family. I remember the day my uncle graduated. We had a huge party, and for many years my mother called him “the genius” and listened to his opinion. Today, in comparison five of my brothers and sisters have degrees, and two are studying for their masters’. However, some people think that this increased access to education is devaluing degrees. In this essay, I will look at some of the arguments for and against the increased emphasis on degrees in our society.
People have several arguments against the need for degrees. They say that having so many graduates devalues a degree. People lose respect for the degree holder. It is also claimed that education has become a rat race. Graduates have to compete for jobs even after years of studying. Another point is that studying for such a long time leads to learners becoming inflexible. They know a lot about one narrow subject, but are unable to apply their skills. Employers prefer more flexible and adaptable workers.
However, I feel strongly that this move to having more qualifications is a positive development. In the past education was only for the rich and powerful. Now it is available to everyone, and this will have many advantages for the country and the individual. First of all, it is impossible to be overeducated. The more people are educated, the better the world will be, because people will be able to discuss and exchange ideas. A further point is that people with degrees have many more opportunities. They can take a wider variety of jobs and do what they enjoy doing, instead of being forced to take a job they dislike. Finally, a highly educated workforce is good for the economy of the country. It attracts foreign investment.