Lesson 9 · Lesson guide
Writing Task 2: Opinion Essays — Agree or Disagree
Hello, my dear student!
Hello! “To what extent do you agree or disagree?” is the most common Task 2 question. In Lesson 8 you learned to analyse it. Today you will write the essay.
The examiner looks for one thing above all: a clear position. Do you agree completely, partly, or not at all? Say it in the introduction, support it in every body paragraph, and repeat it in the conclusion. An essay that changes its mind in the middle loses marks.
We will build the essay piece by piece: the position, the structure, topic sentences, support with examples, linking words and the conclusion. Then you will read a full model essay.
See you in the exercises,Your teacher
Your browser has no English voice, so the listen buttons are hidden. Everything is written on the page.
Choose your position
Completely agree
I completely agree that…
Both body paragraphs give reasons for your view.
- I completely agree that schools should teach money skills.
Partly agree
I partly agree…, although…
One paragraph for the side you agree with, one for its limits. Your final view must still be clear.
- I partly agree, although I believe some homework is useful.
Disagree
I strongly disagree that…
Both body paragraphs explain why the statement is wrong.
- I strongly disagree that exams should be abolished.
Remember!
Choose the position you can support best, not the one you think the examiner wants.
The four-paragraph plan
1
Introduction
Paraphrase the question + your position (the thesis). Two or three sentences.
- Some people believe that… I completely agree with this view.
2–3
Two body paragraphs
Topic sentence → explanation → example → link back to your position.
- Firstly, … This is because… For example, … Therefore, …
4
Conclusion
Repeat your position in new words and summarise your reasons. No new ideas.
- In conclusion, I firmly believe that…
Linking words
Firstly, …
the first reason
Furthermore, …
another reason (= in addition)
For example, …
an example
However, …
a contrast (the other side)
Therefore, …
a result
In conclusion, …
the conclusion (only once, at the end)
Mistakes that cost marks
Not: Introduction: “I agree.” Conclusion: “So I disagree.”Say: The same position in the introduction and the conclusion.
A changing position is unclear → low Task Response.
Not: Firstly of all, …Say: Firstly, … / First of all, …
“Firstly of all” does not exist.
Not: In conclusion, … and another reason is that…Say: In conclusion, … (summary only)
No new ideas in the conclusion.
Check yourself
Where do you first state your position?
What comes after a topic sentence in a body paragraph?
Now it’s your turn!
8 short parts, each a little harder than the one before. Take your time: mistakes are how we learn.
— Your teacher