1. Writing an opinion essay (Part 2)
PLAN
How to write a good thesis statement and a topic sentence?
The use of linking words and phrases
Statements expressing general opinion/ belief
Vocabulary practice
Topic: When considering higher education, age is simply a number. Is it true?
Dictation

2. Thesis statement
A thesis statement focuses on the writer’s position on the main point, idea or the message, and it is expressed in one or two sentences, early in the essay (usually in the introduction).
It should be clear and specific, expressed in a straight and explicit way, with clear and unambiguous words, phrases and syntactic structures.
A good thesis gives a reader an idea of the most important points of an essay, shows the highlights, and makes them want to read more.

3. Examples of thesis statements
‘’I personally believe that students who are taught at home do not benefit as much as those who attend school.’’ (p.28) ‘’It is my belief that homework is necessary for students’ progress.’’ (Workbook, p.17) Examples of more advance thesis statements: ‘’High school graduates should be required to take a year off to pursue community service projects before entering college in order to increase their maturity and global awareness.’’ ‘’The life of the typical college student is characterized by time spent studying, attending class, and socializing with peers.’’ (taken from

4. Topic sentence: general notions
Creating a clear topic sentence within a paragraph is very important because it helps both the writer and the reader to stay on the topic, and thanks to the topic sentence the writer develops the main idea without getting off the track.
A topic sentence generally appears early in a body paragraph (often the first or second sentence), controls the paragraph and unites the contents of it. Everything that follows the topic sentence should be related to it. A topic sentence is like a mini thesis sentence for each paragraph.
Effective topic sentence contributes to the overall impression of the writing skills.
It is also important that all topic sentences relate to the thesis statement.

5. Examples of topic sentences
To begin with, not all parents are qualified teachers.
Furthermore, homeschooling limits children’s social interaction with their peers, not allowing them to develop crucial skills.
Another factor against homeschooling is the impact on family life.
(taken from the coursebook, p.28)

6. The use of linking words and phrases
Task: Circle the correct words/ phrases:
Our school dinners are delicious and nutritious. What is more/ As a result, they are free.
Fred got seriously injured during football practice. As a consequence/ conclusion, he won’t be able to play in tomorrow’s match.
Most people think TV is a waste of time. The way I see it/ Another factor is, it’s the best way to become fluent in a language.
In my view/ my point of view, universities should be free for everyone.
Every person has a different learning style. All things considered/ For this reason, a teacher must use a variety of teaching techniques.
There are many ways parents can help their children do well in school. Firstly/ Overall, they can help their children learn how to organise their time.

7. Statements expressing general opinion/ belief
Many people believe/ agree/ claim that…
….is a very common view.
It is common knowledge that …
Although it is true that …
…must be taken into consideration.
…is something that cannot be ignored.

8. 1. There are many different tips you can give adults to help them learn languages more …..
2. University rules …..the number of non-degree courses to two per student.
3. How … do you think an educational field trip would be?
4. Do not underestimate the …..that the Internet has on our lives.
5. Many teachers feel that technology helps ….their lessons.
6. He didn’t go to university, but his work experience …..for this.
7. Until she tried it for herself, she was always ….the idea of homeschooling.
8. He is working as a teaching assistant because he isn’t ….to teach his own class yet.
9. Most teenagers are influenced by their ….
10. You should face your problems and try to solve then rather than ….them.
Task: Complete the sentences with the correct form of the words in the box. There are two extra words
qualified
beneficial
peer
efficiency
compensate
ignore
enhance
impact
limit
claim
against
resentment

9. Vocabulary: answers
1. There are many different tips you can give adults to help them learn languages more efficiently.
2. University rules limit the number of non-degree courses to two per student.
3. How beneficial do you think an educational field trip would be?
4. Do not underestimate the impact that the Internet has on our lives.
5. Many teachers feel that technology helps enhance their lessons.
6. He didn’t go to university, but his work experience compensates for this.
7. Until she tried it for herself, she was always against the idea of homeschooling.
8. He is working as a teaching assistant because he isn’t qualified to teach his own class yet.
9. Most teenagers are influenced by their peers.
10. You should face your problems and try to solve then rather than ignore them.

10. Task: Write an opinion essay!
Topic: When considering higher education, age is simply a number. Is it true?
Procedure:
Brainstorming activity. What comes to your mind when you hear this topic? What words and phrases could be useful for the written assignment?
Think of the thesis statement. Write it in a sentence which is clear and specific, and which shows what you are going to write about.
Think of 2-3 main ideas which you will use to support your thesis statement.
Develop these ideas into topic sentences.
Get to the writing process. Mind the structure of an opinion essay (introduction, main part with 2-3 paragraphs, conclusion)!
Read your essay and check the overall meaning, coherence, the development of ideas, the elements of an opinion essay.
Proofread your essay: check grammar, vocabulary and spelling.