1. What is it and how do I write one?
The Discursive Essay
What is it and how do I write one?

2. What is it? Start with a controversial topic
Show both sides of the argument
Show which side of the argument you agree with

3. How do I begin? Write your discursive essay
Decide on the topic of argument
Research both sides of the argument
Plan for three supporting and three opposing arguments
Plan your discursive essay – make sure you have evidence for each point that you make
Write your discursive essay

4. Picking your topic Controversy
For this essay your topic has been chosen for you – but in 3rd year you will be asked to decide on your own topic to research
Controversy
Avoid ‘overdone’ topics (for example: abortion, animal rights)

5. Researching your topic

6. Planning your essay Supporting your stance Opposing your stance
Point One
Counter-point one
Evidence
Evidence (try to ‘rubbish’ it)
Point Two
Counter-point two
Point Three
Counter-point three

7. Provocative Balanced Quotation Illustration Anecdote
Writing your essay
How will I open my essay?
Provocative
Balanced
Quotation
Illustration
Anecdote

8. Helping your essay to flow
Furthermore
Likewise
Consequently
Without doubt
Nevertheless
On the other hand
Conversely
Ultimately

9. Planning your essay
Overview – think about what the debate actually is – what is important to you
Include your stance
3 points to support your stance
3 reasons that someone who disagrees with you might suggest
Your own counter-point

10. Your Task