For_and_Against.doc

"For and Against" essays - guide

One type of argumentative essay is that which gives advantages and disadvantages (for and against). It is a formal piece of writing in which a topic is considered from opposing points of view. A good essay of this type should consist of:

·         an introductory paragraph in which you state the topic. This means that you talk generally about the topic without giving your opinion;

·         a main body in which the points for and the points against, along with your justification, appear in two separate paragraphs; and

·         a closing paragraph in which you give either your opinion or a balanced consideration of the topic.

Note: In this type of essay writing, you must not include opinion words (I believe, I think, etc.) in the introduction or the main body. Opinion words can only be used in the final paragraph, where you may state your opinion on the topic.

Points to consider

·         Make a list of the points for and against a topic before you start writing.

·         Write well-developed paragraphs in which the points you present are supported with justification, (i.e. reasons or examples). Make sure each paragraph has more than one sentence, e.g. One advantage of using a word processor is that it saves time. It is much quicker to make corrections on one than it is to do them by hand.

·         Do not use informal style (e.g. short forms, colloquial language, etc.) or strong language (e.g. I firmly believe, etc.)

·         Try to include a quotation relevant to the topic you are writing about. For example, if you are writing an essay on space exploration, a quotation you may include is: "One small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind." (Neil Armstrong)

·         Begin each paragraph with a topic sentence which summarises what the paragraph is about.

Linking words/phrases

·         To introduce points: one major advantage (or disadvantage) of, a further advantage, one point of view in favour of/against

·         To list points: in the first place, first of all, to start with, secondly, thirdly, finally, last but not least

·         To add more points to the same topic: what is more, furthermore, also, in addition to this/that, besides, apart from this/that, not to mention the fact that

·         To make contrasting points: on the other hand, however, in spite of, while, nevertheless, despite, even though, although, it can be argued that

·         To introduce examples: for example, for instance, like, especially, such as, in particular

·         To conclude: to sum up, all in all, all things considered, in conclusion, on the whole, taking everything into account, as was previously stated

Techniques for beginnings and endings

The first paragraph may:

·         make reference to a strange scene or situation, e.g. Some scientists believe that in the future everyone will be genetically perfect

·         address the reader directly, e.g. Are you aware of any characteristics which you may have inherited from your parents? or ask a rhetorical question (question to which no answer is expected), e.g. Isn't it amazing how some children look so much like their parents?

·         start with a quotation, e.g. "Genetics holds the key to the future"

   The last paragraph may:

·         state a personal opinion, e.g. In my opinion, I believe, in my view, It seems to me. The way I see it, I think, etc.

·         give the reader something to consider, e.g. Perhaps the world would be a safer and more efficient place if everyone was genetically perfect

·         end with a quotation, e.g. "Genetics holds the key to the future'', or a rhetorical question, e.g. Whatever will they think of next?

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Describing people - guide

A description of a person should consist of:

·         an introduction where you give some brief information about the person (his/ her name, time or place you met/saw him/her, how you heard about him/her);

·         a main body where you describe physical appearance, personality characteristics and hobbies, interests, everyday activities in separate paragraphs; and

·         a conclusion which includes your comments and/or feelings about the person.

Such descriptions can be found in articles, letters, witness statements, novels, etc.

Points to consider

Each paragraph starts with a topic sentence which introduces the subject of the paragraph. A variety of linking words should be used to connect ideas.

To describe physical appearance, details should be given as follows: height or build, age, facial features, hair, clothes, moving from the most general aspects to the more specific details, e.g. John is a tall, slim man in his mid forties. He has a thin face, blue eyes and a large nose. His short hair is greying at the temples. He is usually casually dressed.

To describe character and behaviour you can support your description with examples, e.g. Sally is very sociable. She loves going to parties and dances. If you want to mention any negative qualities, use mild language (tends to, seems to, is rather, can occasionally be, etc.). e.g. Instead of saying Sally is arrogant, it is better to say Sally tends to be rather arrogant.

Variety in the use of adjectives will make your description more interesting, e.g. good-natured, well-behaved, gorgeous, etc.

Present tenses can be used to describe someone connected to the present, e.g. someone you see every day. Past tenses can be used to describe someone related to the past, e.g. someone who is no longer alive, someone whom you won't meet again... etc.

Narrative techniques

Narrative techniques (use of direct speech, weather description, use of dramatic language to create mystery, suspense, reference to feelings, moods etc) can be used when describing people. This will make your composition more interesting to the reader. See how an ordinary beginning can be made more exciting:
Instead of saying: I first met Steven, the secretary of the manager of Sunnington Ltd, last Monday, you could say:

A cold wind was blowing down the street last Monday morning as I pushed open the heavy glass door of Sunnington Ltd. Chilled and nervous I walked up to Mr Tibbs' secretary. A pair of friendly dark eyes met mine. So this was Steven! (weather description, your feelings, suspense)

"Mr Tibbs is at a meeting. Would you like to wait? He'll be about ten minutes." He had a sharp clear voice, and a narrow intelligent face. I could see why Mr Tibbs, the manager of Sunnington Ltd, spoke so highfy of Steven. (direct speech, mystery)

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