Discussion essays are another common question type in IELTS Writing Task 2. You will be given a topic and asked to discuss both sides of an argument and give your own opinion. These essays require you to present a balanced analysis before arriving at a clear conclusion.
In this guide, I will show you how to write a high-scoring discussion essay, including structure, vocabulary, and a complete sample answer.
Understanding Discussion Essay Questions
Discussion essay questions typically look like this:
“Some people think that the best way to improve road safety is to increase the penalties for dangerous drivers. Others believe that better road and vehicle design is the solution. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.”
The key phrase is “discuss both views and give your own opinion”. You must present both sides of the argument fairly and then state which side you agree with and why.
The Structure of a Discussion Essay
Introduction (2-3 sentences)
Paraphrase the question and indicate that you will discuss both sides. For example: “The question of how best to improve road safety has been widely debated. This essay will discuss both approaches before presenting my own view.”
Body Paragraph 1: View 1 (5-7 sentences)
Present the first viewpoint. Explain the reasoning behind it and support it with examples. Make sure you fully develop this paragraph — do not just state the view without explaining it.
Body Paragraph 2: View 2 (5-7 sentences)
Present the second viewpoint. Again, explain the reasoning and support it with examples. Try to give both sides equal weight — do not spend more time on the side you agree with.
Body Paragraph 3: Your Opinion (3-5 sentences)
State your own opinion and explain why you hold it. You can agree with one of the views, take a middle position, or present a completely different perspective. Whatever you do, make your position clear and support it with reasoning.
Conclusion (2 sentences)
Summarise the main points and restate your opinion. Do not introduce new ideas.
Sample Discussion Essay
Question: “Some people think that children should begin their formal education at a very early age. Others believe that children should not start school until they are at least seven years old. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.”
Introduction:
The question of when children should begin formal education is a matter of ongoing debate among educators and parents. While some argue that early schooling gives children a head start, others believe that delaying formal education allows for more natural development. This essay will discuss both perspectives before presenting my own view.
Body Paragraph 1:
Proponents of early education argue that the early years are a critical period for cognitive development. During this time, children’s brains are particularly receptive to learning, and early exposure to structured education can lay the foundation for future academic success. For example, countries like South Korea and Japan, where children often begin formal education at age five or six, consistently rank among the top performers in international education assessments.
Body Paragraph 2:
On the other hand, those who advocate for a later start argue that young children learn best through play and exploration rather than formal instruction. They point to countries like Finland, where children do not begin formal schooling until age seven, yet consistently achieve excellent educational outcomes. Research suggests that play-based learning in the early years develops creativity, social skills, and emotional intelligence — qualities that are just as important as academic knowledge.
Body Paragraph 3:
In my view, the ideal approach lies somewhere between these two extremes. While formal education should not begin too early, children can benefit from structured learning environments from the age of five or six. A balanced approach that combines play-based learning with gentle academic instruction would give children the best of both worlds.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, both early and delayed education have their merits. However, I believe that a balanced approach that introduces formal learning at a moderate age, while still allowing plenty of time for play and exploration, is the most effective way to support children’s development.
Tips for Writing Discussion Essays
Give equal weight to both views. Do not spend more time on the side you agree with. The examiner wants to see that you can present a balanced analysis.
Use clear paragraphing. Each viewpoint should have its own paragraph. This makes your essay easier to follow and shows the examiner that you can organise your ideas logically.
Do not forget your opinion. Many candidates discuss both views beautifully but then forget to give their own opinion. Make sure you have a clear paragraph or section where you state your position.
Use linking words to show contrast. Phrases like “On the other hand”, “However”, “In contrast”, and “Conversely” help you move between the two viewpoints smoothly.
Practise writing discussion essays regularly. Compare your essays to Band 9 samples and pay attention to how they balance the two viewpoints and integrate their own opinion.
With practice and the right strategies, you can master the discussion essay and achieve a high band score in IELTS Writing Task 2. Good luck!
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