B1 Upper-Intermediate Writing · Lesson 24

Write an Essay Discussing Two Views

Learn to explain two different viewpoints fairly, compare their reasoning, and give your own supported position.

B1 Upper-IntermediateDiscussion essay30 min160–170 words
Lesson progress
Explanation · 1 / 4
Study the structure and model before completing the three exercises.

Write a discussion essay that presents two contrasting views accurately, develops reasons for each, compares their strengths, and states a justified personal position.

Model text

People have different views about whether university students should choose subjects mainly according to their interests or focus on courses that are likely to lead directly to employment. Those who support studying personal interests argue that motivation is essential for successful learning. Students who care deeply about a subject may work harder, develop stronger expertise, and eventually discover career paths they had not considered before. Others believe employment prospects should be the main priority because higher education requires a major investment of time and money. From this perspective, choosing a course with clear professional opportunities can reduce financial risk and make the transition into work easier. Both arguments are reasonable. However, I do not think students should treat interest and employment as completely separate choices. In my view, the best decision is to find an area that is genuinely interesting while also researching the skills and careers connected with it. A practical course without motivation can be difficult to complete, while passion without planning may create unnecessary problems later.

How to write

1
Introduce both views clearly
2
Explain the first view and its reasoning
3
Explain the second view and its reasoning
4
Compare or evaluate the two perspectives
5
Give your own supported position in the conclusion

Useful language

Some people believe...Those who support this view argue...Others believe...From this perspective,...Both arguments are reasonable.In my view,...
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 an Essay Discussing Two Views

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
Why does the opening use “People have different views about whether…”?
2
What does “Those who support studying personal interests argue…” do?
3
Why is “may work harder… and eventually discover…” used?
4
What does “From this perspective” refer to?
5
Why does the writer say “Both arguments are reasonable” before “However”?
6
What does “while” express in the final sentence?
Exercise 2 · Structure & development

Write an Essay Discussing Two Views

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
How does the essay distinguish the two views in the body?
2
What evidence/development supports the “interest” view?
3
What reasoning supports the employment-focused view?
4
Why is “Both arguments are reasonable” placed before the writer’s own view?
5
How does the writer avoid choosing one extreme?
6
Which structure best matches this discussion essay?
Exercise 3 · Writing

Write an Essay Discussing Two Views

Learn to explain two different viewpoints fairly, compare their reasoning, and give your own supported position.

Complete the writing task.
Exercise 3 · 4 / 4
Write 160–170 words and develop your ideas clearly.
Your task

Write an essay discussing two views on a familiar issue. Explain why people support each view, then give your own opinion with reasons.

  • Introduce both views accurately.
  • Develop the first view with at least one reason.
  • Develop the second view with at least one reason.
  • Use contrast and comparison language.
  • Evaluate or compare the perspectives.
  • State your own opinion clearly.
  • Support your position with reasoning in the conclusion.
Some people believe...Those who support this view argue...Others believe...From this perspective,...Both arguments are reasonable.In my view,...
Your writing
0 words · Target: 160–170

Your draft is saved automatically on this device.

Quick check
Write about 160–170 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

After the lesson check, get detailed feedback appropriate for this B1 Upper-Intermediate task.