Reflective essays

 Formal in style, this type of essay presents different aspects of the topic in turn. Some possible
aspects to be considered are set out in what is known as the “discussion clock”, therefore,
from a moral, social, political point of view.
 Each viewpoint is supported by examples.
 Opposing viewpoints should be mentioned as well.
 These essays do not try to persuade readers that the writer`s opinion is the only valid one; the
aim is to make them consider things from a different perspective, allowing them to create a
personal opinion or share other views.

Structure:

 An introduction in which you state the topic, explaining the current or past situation.
 A main body consisting of two or more paragraphs in which the topic is approached through
different aspects.
 A conclusion in which you summarise the topic by making a general comment about it; here,
you can also include your opinion.

Useful language for reflective essays:

 To bring up other points or aspects: as far as, regarding, as for, with regard to
 To make contrasting points: yet, however, nevertheless, although, in spite of, despite, on the
other hand, while, it is argued that, opponents of this view say, there are people who oppose,
contrary to what people believe
 To conclude: all in all, to sum up, in my opinion, in my view, to my mind
 To express facts/ reality: in fact, as a matter of fact, in practice, the fact is

Discussion clock

Psychologica
Personal
l

Personal Religious

Geographica Artistic
l

Historical Economic

Moral Educational

Political Social
Sample: Reflect on the role marriage has in today`s society. Write your essay.

If there is one thing that virtually all the world`s various cultures have in common, it is marriage.
Beliefs, diet and languages vary greatly, but the desire people have to share their lives with
another seems universal. Why then, is marriage so popular?

Psychologists have said that people have a deep need for the emotional security which marriage
provides. Knowing that one has a partner in life makes it easier to cope with the problems of daily
life. On the other hand, the fact that many single people are content to live alone suggests that
the “emotional need” theory is incomplete.

British novelist Fay Weldon once stated, “Marriage has nothing to do with emotion and
everything to do with property,” According to the supporters of this view, people marry in order
to increase their wealth, either by marrying a rich partner or because, as the saying goes, “two
can live as cheaply as one”. It is true that financial considerations are often the primary reason
that people marry. Yet, there are countless examples of people “marrying for love”, regardless of
their mate`s lack of money.

All in all, marriage continues to be extremely popular in in many societies. Most of us have a need
for love and support and want to have children at some point in our lives. Fully understanding the
reasons why people marry, though, may be difficult as understanding the human mind itself.