B1 Writing · Lesson 24

Write an Opinion Essay

Learn to write a short B1 opinion essay with a clear position, developed arguments, an example, a counterargument, and a focused conclusion.

B1Opinion essay25 min130–140 words
Lesson progress
Explanation · 1 / 4

Study the structure and model before completing the three exercises.

Write a structured opinion essay with an introduction, two supporting arguments, an example, a counterargument with response, and a clear final position.

Model text

I believe cities should invest more money in safe cycling infrastructure. First, better cycle lanes can encourage people to leave their cars at home, which may reduce traffic and air pollution. Cycling is an affordable way to travel and can help people include more physical activity in their routine. For example, someone who cycles to work several times a week gets exercise without extra gym time. Some people argue that building cycle lanes removes space from cars and can be expensive. However, well-planned routes can make roads safer for cyclists, drivers, and pedestrians. Protected lanes also reduce the need for cyclists to share busy traffic, which is why many people are afraid to cycle. In my opinion, cities should treat cycling as part of transport planning. If routes are safe and connected, more residents are likely to use them regularly.

How to write

1
Introduce the topic and state your opinion

I believe...

2
Develop your first argument

First,...

3
Develop your second argument with an example

One important reason is...

4
Acknowledge an opposing view and respond

For example,...

5
Restate your position in the conclusion

Another point is...

Useful phrases

I believe...
First,...
One important reason is...
For example,...
Another point is...
Some people argue that...
However,...
This is why...
In my opinion,...
In conclusion,...

Language focus

Build connected B1 writing:

Use clear topic sentences and support them with specific details.

Connect ideas with words such as because, however, for example, although, finally when they fit the task.

Develop, do not only list:

Explain why, add an example, or show a result.

Use a mix of simple and longer sentences, but keep every sentence easy to understand.

Remember:
At B1, your reader should be able to follow the text from beginning to end without guessing how the ideas connect.
Specific details and reasons make your writing stronger than general statements.
Exercises:
Exercise 1 · Language

Choose the best B1 language

Choose natural language that fits this writing task.

Practise useful language.
Exercise 1 · 2 / 4

You need at least 5 correct answers out of 6 to complete this exercise.

1
Which option is the best language for this part of the task?
2
Which option is the best language for this part of the task?
3
Which option is the best language for this part of the task?
4
Which option is the best language for this part of the task?
5
Which option is the best language for this part of the task?
6
Which option is the best language for this part of the task?
Exercise 2 · Structure

Build the text in a clear order

Choose the clearest organisation for this type of B1 writing.

Practise the five-step structure.
Exercise 2 · 3 / 4

You need at least 5 correct answers out of 6 to complete this exercise.

1
What should you do first?
2
What is the best second step?
3
Which step belongs in the middle of the text?
4
What should come before the final sentence or closing?
5
What is the best final step?
6
Which order is clearest?
Exercise 3 · Writing

Write an Opinion Essay

Learn to write a short B1 opinion essay with a clear position, developed arguments, an example, a counterargument, and a focused conclusion.

Complete the twenty-fourth B1 Writing lesson.
Exercise 3 · 4 / 4

Write about 130–140 words and develop your ideas clearly.

Your task

Write an opinion essay about whether cities should invest more in safe cycling infrastructure. Support your view with reasons and an example, and include a counterargument.

  • State a clear opinion in the introduction.
  • Develop at least two supporting arguments.
  • Include at least one example.
  • Include a counterargument.
  • Respond to the counterargument.
  • Use linking words.
  • Finish with a clear conclusion.
I believe...First,...One important reason is...For example,...Another point is...Some people argue that...However,...This is why...In my opinion,...In conclusion,...
Your writing
0 words · Target: 130–140

Your draft is saved automatically on this device.

Quick check
Write about 130–140 words
State a clear opinion
Develop at least two arguments
Include an example
Include an opposing view
Respond to the opposing view
Use several linking words
Finish with a clear conclusion
Use clear complete sentences and connected ideas
AI feedback

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