_ Do you agree or disagree?

_ To what extent do you agree or disagree?

_ Is this a positive or negative development?

WRITING STRATEGY

1. Underline key vocabulary in the topic and write words with the same meaning.

Some people believe that the fast pace and stress of modern life is having a negative

high-speed pressure contemporary lifestyles harmful

effect on families.

influence family life

2. Decide what kind of response is needed.

To what extent do you agree or disagree? (= say how much you agree or disagree)

3. Brainstorm key points for the answer.

Agree with negative effect on families Disagree with negative effect on families
Fast pace leads to less time for families to Due to the increased time pressure and
be together stress families and forced to cooperate
more, which brings them closer together
 Stress leads to arguments among family
members.

4. Decide on your position (totally agree, partly agree, totally disagree, partly disagree)

You do not need to give arguments for both sides of the topic. You can choose a side that
you think will be the easiest to explain, and for which you have the better language to
use.

5. Decide on the structure of the essay

You should write about the side you do not support in the first body. Then, with the side
you support more strongly, write it in the second body. Also, you should organize your
ideas from weakest (body 1) to strongest (body 2).

ESSAY STRUCTURE

Part Content
Introduction - Paraphrase the question. There are some ways:
 Use words with the same meaning
 Rearrange the order of the words in the sentence
 Change some of the word forms (N -> V)
- State your position [totally/strongly/partly + agree/disagree]
Body Paragraph 1 - Write a topic sentence. [reason]
(Weakest ideas) - Write supporting sentences for the topic sentence. [explanation -
example – adding details]

Body Paragraph 2 - Write a topic sentence. [reason]

(Strongest ideas) - Write supporting sentences for the topic sentence. [explanation -
 example – adding details]
Conclusion - Restate the position
- Summarize main ideas
- Give your final opinion
Example Outline
Question:
Some people believe that the fast pace and stress of modern life is having a negative
effect on families.

To what extent, do you agree or this agree?

Part Content
Introduction Paraphrase the question: Many people think that today’s fast
lifestyle and high stress levels are harming family relationships.
Thesis statement: I totally agree with this view.
Example:

Many people believe that the fast pace and stress of modern life
have a negative effect on families. I totally agree with this view.

Body Paragraph 1 Topic sentence: First, the fast pace of modern life means families
(Weakest ideas) spend less time with one another.
Supporting ideas: long working hours, long commutes, and too
much screen time reduce daily family interaction.
Example: For example, many parents arrive home late and miss
meals or bedtime with their children, which weakens family bonds.

Example:

First, the fast pace of modern life means that families spend less
time together. Many adults have long working hours or long travel
times to work, and even when they come home, they may spend too
much time on their phones or computers. Because of this, families
 do not talk or share simple activities as much as they used to. For
example, many parents arrive home late and miss dinner or
bedtime with their children, which slowly weakens the connection
between them.
Body Paragraph 2 Topic sentence: Second, high stress levels create tension and poor
(Strongest ideas) communication within families.
Supporting ideas: When adults feel stressed about work or money,
they may become impatient or quiet, causing misunderstandings.
Example: For instance, stress often leads to arguments between
spouses, which damages trust and creates a negative home
atmosphere.
Example:
Second, high stress levels create serious problems in family
relationships. When people feel tired or worried about work,
money, or other responsibilities, they become easily annoyed or
quiet. This often causes small misunderstandings to turn into
arguments. For instance, stress can lead to frequent fights between
husbands and wives, damaging trust and creating a negative
atmosphere at home. Over time, this tension can make family
members feel distant from one another.
Conclusion Restate your opinion: In conclusion, I strongly believe that the fast
pace and stress of modern life negatively affect families.
Summarize reasons: Families spend less time together, and stress
leads to conflict and poor communication.
Final thought: Therefore, finding a healthy balance between work
and family is important for maintaining strong relationships.
Example:
In conclusion, I strongly believe that the fast pace and stress of
modern life harm families. Busy schedules reduce the time families
 spend together, and stress creates conflict and poor
communication. For this reason, it is important for people to find a
better balance between work and family to keep their relationships
strong.

LANGUAGE TIPS

Section Useful phrases

Paraphrasing the Question  Many people believe that…

 Some people think that…

 It is often said that…

 It is true that...

Introduce a reason for  First of all, I agree because…

agreement
 One main reason is that…

 Another important reason is that…

Introduce the opposite  However, I disagree with this idea because…

 On the other hand, many people think this is wrong

because…

explain an idea  This means that…

  In other words,…

 As a result,…

 Because of this,…

Adding information  also

 in addition

 besides

 moreover

Giving a result  therefore

 as a result

 so

PRACTICE

1. Some people think technology makes life complex, so we should make life simpler
without using technology. Do you agree or disagree?

2. Some people think the money spent on developing technology for space exploration
is not justified. They are more beneficial ways to spend this money. To what extent do
you agree or disagree?
3. In recent years, there has been a significant advancement in AI and automation
technologies. Some argue that these technologies will lead to widespread job
displacement. To what extent do you agree or disagree with the statement?

4. Many people believe that social networking sites (such as Facebook) have a huge
negative impact on both individuals and society.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

This type of essay tests your ability to discuss both sides of an argument and also give
your own opinion and then support it with logicak reasons.

Some people think that the education system only focus on

preparing students for employment, while others believe it has
other important functions.

Discuss both these views and give your opinion.

WRITING STRATEGY

1. Underline key vocabulary in the topic and write words with the same meaning.

Some people think that the education system only focus on preparing students for
 schools concentrate on getting pupils ready

employment, while others believe it has other important functions.

Career additional purposes

2. Decide what kind of response is needed.

Discuss both these views and give your opinion ( = you need to give reasons to support
each side of the argument and then give your own personal opinion on the argument.)

3. Brainstorm key points for the answer. (two main points for each side of the
argument)

Only preparing students Other functions Your opinion

for careers
Leads to better careers Skills – to make the students well- 1. both sides of the
rounded, such as communication argument are merits.
skills and how to use technology
Leads to a better workforce Morals and ethics – to make the 2. more strongly
which gives benefits to society better support other functions.
society

4. Decide on the structure of the essay

Paragraph 1: Introduction

Paragraph 2: Side A of the argument

Paragraph 3: Side B of the argument

Paragraph 4: Conclusion
 ESSAY STRUCTURE

Part Content
Introduction - Paraphrase the question. There are some ways:
 Use words with the same meaning
 Rearrange the order of the words in the sentence
 Change some of the word forms (N -> V)
- Say what the essay is about
Body Paragraph 1 - Write a topic sentence. [which side of the argument you are
discussing]
- Write the first main point >> Explain the main point >> Give an
example
- Write the second main point >> Explain the main point >> Give
an example
Body Paragraph 2 - Write a topic sentence. [which side of the argument you are
discussing]
- Write the first main point >> Explain the main point >> Give an
example
- Write the second main point >> Explain the main point >> Give
an example
Conclusion “In conclusion, I believe that....”
- State the both sides of the argument have merits and say which
side you support more strongly
- Give a justification for supporting this side more strongly.

Example Outline
Question:
Some people think that the education system only focus on preparing students for
employment, while others believe it has other important functions.

Discuss both these views and give your opinion.

Part Content
Introduction - Paraphrase the question:
Some argue that modern education systems mainly aim to equip
learners with the skills needed for future employment, whereas
others claim that schools and universities serve broader purposes- -
- Say what the essay is about:
This essay will explore both viewpoints and present my own
opinion.
Body Paragraph 1 Education prepares students for employment
 Topic sentence:
- Many people believe that the primary role of education is
to prepare students for the labour market.
 Main point 1 → Explanation → Example:
- Schools and universities teach practical and technical
skills that employers look for.
- For example, subjects such as mathematics, science, IT,
and vocational training directly relate to job
requirements.
 Main point 2 → Explanation → Example:
- Education also develops soft skills such as teamwork,
communication, and problem-solving, which are essential
in most professions.
- Group projects in schools illustrate how students learn to
collaborate effectively.
Body Paragraph 2 Education has broader purposes
 Topic sentence:
Others argue that education fulfils many important functions
beyond preparing students for employment.
 Main point 1 → Explanation → Example:
o Schools help develop students’ critical thinking,
creativity, and moral values.
o For instance, subjects like literature, history, and
ethics encourage students to reflect on society and
human behaviour.
 Main point 2 → Explanation → Example:
o Education also contributes to social development by
teaching young people how to become responsible
citizens.
o Activities such as community service and cultural
events promote civic engagement.

Conclusion  State the both sides of the argument have merits and say
which side you support more strongly
In conclusion, I believe that while preparing students for work is an
important aim of education, its broader social and personal
development roles are equally significant.
 Give a justification for supporting this side more strongly.
Because modern societies need citizens who are not only skilled
workers but also informed, responsible, and socially aware,
education should balance both purposes.
 LANGUAGE TIPS

Section Useful phrases

Paraphrasing the Question  “Many people argue that… while others believe
that…”

 “There is a debate about whether… or whether…”

 “Some individuals think that…, whereas others feel

that…”

Stating what the essay will do  “This essay will discuss both sides of the argument
and provide my own opinion.”

 “In this essay, both viewpoints will be examined,

followed by my personal view.”

 “The following paragraphs will analyse both

perspectives before reaching a conclusion.”
Explaining and giving  “This is because…”
examples
 “One clear example of this is…”

 “This means that…”

 “For instance / For example…”

 “This can be explained by the fact that…”

  “Another reason for this view is that…”

 “A good example of this is…”

Expressing opinion  “In my view, both sides have valid points, but I
[Neutral/Moderate opinion] believe that…”

 “I partly agree with both opinions; however, I think

that…”

 “Although the first argument is convincing, I

personally feel that…”

Expressing opinion  “I firmly believe that…”

[Clear opinion]
 “I strongly support the idea that…”

 “I am convinced that…”

Restating both views  “In conclusion, there are good arguments on both
sides.”

 “To sum up, people have different views about…”

 “In summary, both perspectives offer valuable

insights.”

Restating your own opinion  “However, I believe that…”

  “From my perspective, …”

 “Therefore, I think that…”

PRACTICE

1. Some people believe that studying at university or college is the best route to a
successful career, while others believe that it is better to get a job straight after school.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.

2. Some people are born other believe leadership can be learnt. Discuss both views and
give your opinion

3. Some people believe teenagers should focus on all subjects equally, whereas others
think that they should concentrate only on subjects they find interesting. Discuss both
views and provide your opinion.

4. Some people believe that education plays a crucial role in personal development,
while others argue that factors such as family background and social environment are
more important. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
For this essay, you will need to think about and explain the problems of a situation or
issue and consider and evaluate more than one possible solution.

Many cities suffer from traffic-related problems.

What problems does traffic cause in cities and what are the
possible solutions?

ESSAY STRUCTURE

Part Content
Introduction - Paraphrase the question. There are some ways:
 Use words with the same meaning
 Rearrange the order of the words in the sentence
 Change some of the word forms (N -> V)
- State what the essay will do
Body Paragraph 1 - Write a topic sentence. (Introduce that you will talk about the
(Problems) problems)
- Write the first problem >> Explain >> Example
- Write the second problem >> Explain >> Example

Body Paragraph 2 - Write a topic sentence. (State that there are possible solutions)
 (Solutions) - Write the first solution>> Explain >> Example
- Write the second solution >> Explain >> Example
Conclusion - Summarise the main points
- Restate that the problems can be solved if appropriate actions are
taken
Example Outline
Question:
Many cities suffer from traffic-related problems.

What problems does traffic cause in cities and what are the possible solutions?

Part Content

Introduction  Paraphrase the question:

Many urban areas today face serious issues caused by heavy
traffic.
 State what the essay will do:
This essay will discuss the main problems related to traffic
in cities and suggest some effective solutions.

Body Paragraph 1 Topic sentence:

(Problems) Cities experience several major problems due to increasing traffic
levels.
Problem 1 → Explanation → Example:
 Problem: Traffic congestion leads to longer travel times.
 Explanation: People spend hours stuck in traffic, reducing
productivity.
 Example: In many large cities, commuters often spend over
an hour traveling short distances.
Problem 2 → Explanation → Example:
  Problem: Heavy traffic contributes to air pollution.
 Explanation: Cars release harmful emissions that reduce air
quality.
 Example: Cities with high car usage often suffer from smog
and respiratory health issues.
Body Paragraph 2 Topic sentence:
(Solutions) However, there are several solutions that can help reduce these
traffic problems.
Solution 1 → Explanation → Example:
 Solution: Improve public transportation.
 Explanation: If buses, trains, and metros are faster and more
convenient, people will use them more.
 Example: Cities that invested in modern public transport
have seen a reduction in private car use.
Solution 2 → Explanation → Example:
 Solution: Introduce traffic control measures.
 Explanation: Policies like congestion charges or carpooling
can lower the number of vehicles on the road.
 Example: Some cities charge drivers a fee to enter busy
areas during peak hours, reducing congestion.

Conclusion - Summary:
In conclusion, traffic in cities causes serious problems such as
delays and air pollution.
- Restate:
However, improving public transport and applying traffic
management policies can help solve these issues.
 LANGUAGE TIPS

Section Useful phrases

Paraphrasing the  “Many cities/countries are facing serious problems
Question related to…”

 “There has been growing concern about…”

 “Nowadays, … has become a major issue.”

Stating what the essay  This essay will discuss the main problems and
will do suggest possible solutions.”

 “The following paragraphs will examine the issues

and outline some measures to tackle them.”

 “This essay will look at the reasons for this problem

and propose ways to address it.”

Topic sentence starters  “There are several major problems caused by…”

 “One of the biggest issues is that…”

 “A significant problem is…”

 “Another issue is…”

 “However, there are a number of solutions to this

 problem.”

 “Several measures can be taken to address these

issues.”

 “Fortunately, some effective methods can be used to

solve this problem.”

Explaining the problem  “This happens because…”

 “This leads to…”

 “As a result…”

 “This causes…”

Presenting a solution  “One possible solution is to…”

 “This can be achieved by…”

 “Another effective approach would be to…”

 “A further measure could be…”

Explaining how the  “This would help by…”

solution works
 “This means that…”

 “As a result, … would improve.”

  “This could lead to…”

PRACTICE

1. The world has many towns and cities constructed in previous centuries that were
more suitable and livable for people in those times than they are now.

What problems will this cause?

What can be done to solve these problems?

2. A rise in the standard of living in a country often only seems to benefit cities rather
than rural areas.

What problems can this cause?

How might these problems be reduced?

3. Today, many people do not know their neighbors in large cities.

What problems does this cause?

What can be done about this?

4. Many people who care for the elderly do not have enough time to look after them.

What are the problems related to this?

What are some possible solutions?