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Understanding Discussion Texts

The document discusses discussion texts, which present arguments for and against issues from different perspectives. A discussion text aims to find common ground between differing ideas. It introduces the purpose and generic structure of discussion texts, including presenting the issue, arguments for and against, and a recommendation. The document also provides examples of discussion texts on nuclear energy and distance learning that follow this structure. Key language features of discussion texts are identified such as relating verbs, thinking verbs, and conjunctions.

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Refo Nanda
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
95 views3 pages

Understanding Discussion Texts

The document discusses discussion texts, which present arguments for and against issues from different perspectives. A discussion text aims to find common ground between differing ideas. It introduces the purpose and generic structure of discussion texts, including presenting the issue, arguments for and against, and a recommendation. The document also provides examples of discussion texts on nuclear energy and distance learning that follow this structure. Key language features of discussion texts are identified such as relating verbs, thinking verbs, and conjunctions.

Uploaded by

Refo Nanda
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

DISCUSSION TEXT

A. Definition
Discussion is a text which presents a problematic discourse. This problem will be
discussed from different points of view. It presents pro and contra opinion on certain
issue. The purpose of a discussion text is to present arguments and information from
differing viewpoints. Discussion texts are usually written in the present tense. Discussion
is a process to find the meet point between two different ideas. It is important to get
the understanding between the two differences. In many social activities, discussion is
the effective way to calm down any friction and difference in thought, perception and
recommendation

B. Purpose
To present the different opinion on a particular issue or topic arguments for and against
positive and negative/ good and bad.

C. Generic Structure
 Issue: contains of statement and preview about something.
 Arguments for/Supporting arguments: after stating the issue, it is necessary to
present the argument to support that one point is agreeing.
 Arguments against: beside the supporting argument, discussion text needs the
arguments which disagree to the stated issue.
 Recommendation/conclusion: It is used to tell how to solve issue by concerning the
arguments for and against

D. Language Features
Introducing category or generic participant.
 Relating verb/to be: is, am, are, etc.
 Using thinking verb: feel, hope, believe, etc.
 Using additive, contrastive, and causal connection: similarly, on the hand, however..
 Using modalities: must, should, could, may, etc.
 Using adverbial of manner: deliberately, hopefully, etc.
 Conjunction/transition: although, even, if, etc

Now read this example of discussion text!


The Advantages and the Disadvantages of Nuclear Energy
Issue : Nuclear energy is commonly offered as an alternative to overcome the crisis of
energy. The debate of whether the use of nuclear energy is an appropriate choice has
not come to an end. Some people agree with the utilization of it because of its
benefits. Some others, however, disagree because of its risks to the environment.

Argument ‘pro’: Those who agree with the operation of nuclear reactors usually argue
that nuclear energy is the only feasible choice to answer the ever-increasing energy
needs. In their opinion, the other sources of energy: oil, coal, and liquid natural gas
are not renewable and safe, while nuclear energy can be sustainable when produced
in a safe way.

Argument "contra": However, people who disagree with the use of nuclear energy
point out that the waste of nuclear products can completely destroy the environment
and human lives. A meltdown in a reactor, for example, usually results in the
contamination of the surrounding soil and water. Take for example, the blow up of
the nuclear reactor at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Station in Russia twenty years
ago. The serious contamination imperiled people and the environment severely.

Conclusion: It is obvious that nuclear energy should be avoided because it really


endangers the environment but what about a less polluted energy instead of nuclear
energy? Is there any alternative energy to overcome the crisis of energy?

Other example :

The advantages and Disadvantages of Distance Learning

A few years ago, distance learning was seen as an inferior way but nowadays
even famous and established traditional colleges and universities are providing
distance learning courses and it is generally considered a way to improve one’s
life.

However, people still argue whether distance learning give more advantage or
disadvantage. Some of them who see the benefit of distance learning will say
that distance learning needs no commuting. Of course it saves money and time
that students would take. Furthermore, distance learning can be done at any
student’s convenience. Mostly of the classes of distance learning are
asynchronous. It means that students do not have to attend a lecture at a fixed
particular time and place. Students can review the assignments and do their
homework during off-hours or from home. Additionally, distance learning gives
more accessibility. No one can deny it. People with limited mobility may
encounter the problem when they take traditional class. With the online class
system, the problem is absent.

Despite the many advantages, the other people will see that distance learning is
costly and needs complex technology. To attend online learning, student must
have a computer with possibly access to the internet. Admitted or not, such
technology devices are not always available for common students. Another
disadvantage of distance learning is that it does not provide immediate feedback.
Unlikely traditional classroom, students have to wait for the feedback and
comment until the instructor has review the works and sent response to them.
Most of the time students will study alone. Distance learners may feel isolated or
miss that social physical interaction that comes with attending a traditional
classroom

Regarding the individual’s learning style, some students are able to learn when
there is a live interaction between them and the available of accompanying
teacher while others don’t really need it. So before deciding a choice of attending
distance learning or not, each student needs to do a fair analysis regarding the
kind of person he/she is.

Please open the following link if you want to comprehend about Discussion Text

[Link]

[Link]

Common questions

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Differing viewpoints on distance learning highlight societal challenges such as technological access, education equity, and varying personal learning preferences . Advocates emphasize flexibility and accessibility, aligning with a push for more inclusive and adaptable education systems. Critics point out the barriers of technology costs and potential isolation, underscoring issues of digital divide and the importance of social interaction in learning environments . These discussions reflect a broader struggle to balance innovation with equity and inclusivity in education .

Distance learning offers advantages such as eliminating commuting, offering cost and time savings, and providing flexible scheduling due to its asynchronous nature, allowing students to learn at their convenience . It increases accessibility for individuals with mobility restrictions . However, potential drawbacks include the need for costly and potentially inaccessible technology, lack of immediate feedback, the possibility of isolation, and the absence of live interaction, which some students find necessary for effective learning .

The Chernobyl disaster exemplifies the potential catastrophic consequences of nuclear energy, emphasizing the risks of radioactive contamination to both human life and the environment . As one of the most severe nuclear accidents, it serves as a powerful argument against nuclear energy by showcasing the long-term and widespread damage such incidents can cause, complicating its viability as a safe energy alternative . This historical context bolsters the argument that the risks may outweigh the benefits .

A discussion text is characterized by its aim to present a problematic discourse through arguments for and against a particular issue from different viewpoints . It is structured with an issue statement, supporting arguments, opposing arguments, and a recommendation or conclusion . This structure guides the presentation by ensuring balanced perspectives are given, highlighting both sides of the debate before reaching a nuanced conclusion or potential solution . This helps in calming down friction and differences in thought, promoting understanding between divergent ideas .

The main argument for nuclear energy is its potential to sustainably meet increasing energy demands, as traditional sources like oil and coal are depleting and less safe . Conversely, the argument against focuses on the environmental and human risks due to nuclear waste and possible reactor meltdowns, exemplified by the Chernobyl disaster . These arguments reflect the challenges in addressing the energy crisis; there is a need for large-scale sustainable solutions, but potential risks and negative impacts necessitate careful consideration and management .

Language features like the use of conjunctions, modalities, and adverbials enhance the presentation of differing viewpoints by providing clarity and structure . Conjunctions such as 'however' or 'although' create contrast and help transition between arguments, while modalities like 'should' or 'may' express the degree of certainty or obligation, guiding the strength of an argument. Adverbials such as 'hopefully' or 'deliberately' add nuance to the manner or intention behind an argument, allowing the audience to consider both factual and emotional perspectives .

Distance learning represents educational progression by leveraging technology to increase accessibility and flexibility, aligning with contemporary needs for personalized and lifelong learning . However, it also poses challenges, such as technological access disparities and potential deficiencies in social interaction, which can impact learning outcomes . Balancing these factors requires innovative solutions and policy adaptations to ensure that distance learning effectively contributes to educational evolution without exacerbating existing inequalities .

Including both supporting and opposing arguments ensures a thorough exploration of an issue, providing the audience with a balanced perspective . This approach avoids bias by presenting both sides of a debate, which is crucial for fostering understanding and facilitating informed decision-making . It also mirrors real-world issues where multiple viewpoints must be considered to reach effective and fair solutions .

Considering one's learning style before choosing distance learning highlights the importance of self-awareness in education decisions . It implies that not all learning environments suit every individual, and personalized educational choices can significantly impact effectiveness and satisfaction . This necessity underscores the complexity of education in the digital age, where diverse delivery methods require students to make informed decisions to maximize their educational benefits and avoid potential pitfalls .

Recommendations or conclusions in a discussion text serve to synthesize the presented arguments, offering a resolution or suggesting further areas for consideration . They provide closure by summarizing the key points discussed and often propose a potential way forward, allowing readers to leave with a clear understanding of the issue and possible solutions or actions .

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