For and Against Essay

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For and Against Essay

For and Against Essays

 They are one type of discursive writing in which you discuss the
advantages and disadvantages of a specific topic.
 The title of this composition is usually “Discuss the advantages
and disadvantages of…”
 Synonyms: advantages = pros
 disadvantages = cons = drawbacks
Structure
 INTRODUCTION in which you present the topic, making a general
remark about the topic, WITHOUT giving your opinion. It’s possible to
include a rhetorical question, too.

 PARAGRAPH 1 in which you present the points for/ or the points


against, supporting your arguments with justifications and examples.
 PARAGRAPH 2 in which you present the points for/ or the points
against, supporting your arguments with justifications and examples.

 CONCLUSION in which you include your opinion or a balanced


summary of the topic.
Pay attention!!!

Type 1 Type 2
INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION
AGAINST FOR
FOR AGAINST
CONCLUSION: FOR CONCLUSION:AGAINST
Useful vocabulary (1)
 To introduce or list advantages
– The main/ first/ most important advantage of…
– One/ Another/ An additional advantage of…
– One point of view in favour of…
– It is often suggested/ believed/ argued that…
– Some/ Many people suggest/ feel/ argue that…
– Some/ Many people are in favour of/ are convinced that…
Useful vocabulary (2)
 To introduce or list disadvantages
– The main/ first/ most important disadvantage/ drawback of…
– One/ Another/ An additional disadvantage of…
– One point of view against…
– It is often suggested/ believed/ argued that…
– One point against…
– Some/ Many people are against…
Useful vocabulary (3)

 To introduce examples/  To show contrast:


reasons/ results: – On the other hand,
– For example/ instance, – However,
– Such as… – Nonetheless,
– In particular, – Nevertheless,
– For this reason,… – Although…
– Despite/ In spite of…
Example

 Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of travelling by boat.

A hundred years ago, the only way to make a journey across the sea was by boat.
Nowadays, however, when it is possible to fly from one continent to another in
the space of a few hours, is there any reason to travel by boat?

Although the boat is a rather old-fashioned way of travelling, it has certain


advantages. To begin with, boats are usually more comfortable than planes or
cars. For example, you can go for a walk on the deck or even go shopping. An
additional advantage is that boats are often cheaper than other forms of
travel. For example, a boat ticket usually costs less than a plane ticket.
However, travelling by boat has disadvantages, too. The most important
drawback is that it usually takes longer than other forms of travel. As a result,
it can be more tiring. Another point against it is that when the weather is bad,
the journey can be uncomfortable or frightening.

All things considered, although there are some advantages, I believe it is not the
best form of transport. I prefer planes because I can enjoy my holiday longer.
Exercise: Match each argument about modelling to its corresponding
justification. Which points are “for” and which are “against”?

 ARGUMENTS  JUSTIFICATIONS
1) BE AN EXCITING CAREER
a) EXPECTED TO STAY THIN SO
2) OPPORTUNITY TO EARN A THAT THEY LOOK GOOD ALL
LOT OF MONEY THE TIME
3) MODELS MUST b) DESIGNERS AND FASHION
CONSTANTLY WATCH MAGAZINES ARE WILLING TO
WHAT THEY EAT PAY HIGH FEES FOR POPULAR
4) NO PRIVACY MODELS
c) REPORTERS ARE ALWAYS
CHASING THEM
d) MODELS USUALLY TRAVEL
TO INTERESTING PLACES AND
OFTEN MEET FAMOUS PEOPLE

1D – 2B – 3A – 4C

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