B1 Upper-Intermediate Writing · Lesson 22

Write a For-and-Against Essay

Learn to present arguments for and against a statement objectively and separate evidence from your final judgement.

B1 Upper-IntermediateFor-and-against essay30 min150–160 words
Lesson progress
Explanation · 1 / 4
Study the structure and model before completing the three exercises.

Write a balanced for-and-against essay with a neutral introduction, developed arguments on both sides, linking language, and a reasoned conclusion.

Model text

Some people believe cars should be banned from city centres in order to create cleaner and safer urban areas. There are strong arguments in favour of this idea. Fewer cars could reduce air pollution, noise, and traffic accidents. City centres might also have more space for pedestrians, cyclists, trees, and outdoor cafés. On the other hand, a complete ban could create difficulties for people who cannot easily use public transport, including some older or disabled residents. Local businesses may also depend on deliveries or customers who travel from outside the city. In addition, public transport would need to be reliable and affordable before strict restrictions were introduced. Overall, reducing car use in busy centres could bring important environmental and social benefits, but a total ban may be too simple a solution. A better approach would be to limit unnecessary traffic while keeping access for people and services that genuinely need it.

How to write

1
Introduce the statement without taking a strong side
2
Present arguments in favour
3
Develop those arguments with effects or examples
4
Present arguments against
5
Finish with a reasoned conclusion

Useful language

There are strong arguments in favour of...One reason is...On the other hand,...Those who disagree argue that...In addition,...Overall,...
B1 Upper-Intermediate focus: Develop each main idea with a reason, example, consequence, or reflection. Use a wider range of linkers, but keep the text natural and easy to follow.
Exercises:
Exercise 1 · Language in the model text

Write a For-and-Against Essay

Read the model text closely. Choose the answer that best explains its grammar, vocabulary, linking, or register.

Analyse how the model uses language to achieve the writing purpose.
Exercise 1 · 2 / 4
You need at least 5 correct answers out of 6.
1
What does “in order to create cleaner and safer urban areas” express?
2
Why does the writer use “could reduce” and “might also have”?
3
What does “On the other hand” signal?
4
Why is “including some older or disabled residents” added?
5
What does “would need to be” communicate about public transport?
6
Why does the final recommendation say “limit unnecessary traffic” rather than repeat “ban all cars”?
Exercise 2 · Structure & development

Write a For-and-Against Essay

Use the model text to analyse how its ideas are ordered, connected, developed, and supported.

Analyse the organisation of this specific model text and the function of its details.
Exercise 2 · 3 / 4
You need at least 5 correct answers out of 6.
1
Why are environmental and public-space benefits grouped together first?
2
What is the function of the sentence about older or disabled residents?
3
Why are businesses and deliveries mentioned after residents?
4
How does the public-transport condition prepare for the conclusion?
5
Why does the penultimate sentence say a total ban “may be too simple a solution”?
6
Which structure best describes the text?
Exercise 3 · Writing

Write a For-and-Against Essay

Learn to present arguments for and against a statement objectively and separate evidence from your final judgement.

Complete the writing task.
Exercise 3 · 4 / 4
Write 150–160 words and develop your ideas clearly.
Your task

Write a for-and-against essay about a statement such as “University education should be completely online” or “Cars should be banned from city centres.” Present both sides before concluding.

  • Introduce the debate neutrally.
  • Give at least two arguments for the idea.
  • Give at least two arguments against it.
  • Develop arguments with explanations or examples.
  • Use formal contrast and addition linkers.
  • Avoid repeating the same point.
  • Finish with a reasoned conclusion.
There are strong arguments in favour of...One reason is...On the other hand,...Those who disagree argue that...In addition,...Overall,...
Your writing
0 words · Target: 150–160

Your draft is saved automatically on this device.

Quick check
Write about 150–160 words
Introduce the issue or debate clearly
Develop multiple arguments or solutions
Support ideas with reasons or examples
Use contrast or another viewpoint
Finish with an evaluative conclusion
Use several linking expressions
Use at least 9 clear sentences
AI feedback

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