PLANNING WHAT TO WRITE a Look at the essay titles below and, with a partner, choose one of them. Brainstorm the pros and cons. Then decide on three main arguments on each side that are relevant to the title. The growth of online shopping has greatly improved life for the consumer. Ready meals have revolutionized eating at home - but at what price? b Write an introduction for the essay. Follow this pattern: 1 Write an introductory sentence about how important online shopping or ready meals have become. 2 Write a second sentence supporting the first one. 3 Ask the main question that you intend to answer in the essay. c Compare your introduction with a partner. Together, make a final version. TIPS for writing a discursive essay giving both sides of an argument: • Brainstorm points for and against and decide which two or three you think are the most important. • Use a neutral or formal style. • Write a clear introduction which engages the reader. You could end the introduction with a question you are going to answer. An essay is not just a list of ideas and opinions. Link your ideas in a logical sequence. Use phrases to order, contrast, and weigh up the points in your argument. Make sure your conclusion is a summary of what you have previously said and refers back to what you were asked to write about. WRITING . Write an essay of berween 200 and 250 words, DRAFT your essay Paragraph 1: Write an introduction. Paragraph 2: Give arguments in favour of online shopping or ready meals. Paragraph 3: Give arguments against online shopping or ready meals. Paragraph 4: Write your conclusion, saying whether you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages or vice versa. EDIT the essay, making sure you've covered the main points, cutting any irrelevant information, and making sure it is the right length. CHECK the essay for mistakes in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and register.
