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From theory to practice

Definition
A formal piece of writing in which you argue a case, or express an opinion, by looking at the problem from two sides. In such an essay, you must state your arguments clearly and support them with appropriate reasons and examples. It often tests the writers ability to establish the veracity, validity and efficacy of a state, a conviction, an interpretation, a principle, a viewpoint etc.

Types

for & against essay both sides are argued with justifications and reasons in separate paragraphs
balanced essay for a balanced essay, the for and against viewpoints with reasons and examples should be equal in number opinion essay the writer expresses different viewpoints on the topic, each supported by reasons; the writers judgment for or against should be plainly stated and argued.

Structure Dont forget that the form of the essay is as important as the content of the essay. So you must have an introduction, a main body a conclusion.

BALANCED/ FOR & AGAINST ESSAY

OPINION ESSAY

The introductory paragraph clearly states the topic of discussion; it introduces the two (or more) main sides with the respective views.

The introductory paragraph clearly states the topic , it indicates the main sides and it also introduces the reader to the writers opinion.

BALANCED/ FOR & AGAINST ESSAY

OPINION ESSAY

It includes several paragraphs containing separate , equal (if balanced) positions on each side(s) with their respective arguments, examples, general knowledge. Both sides should be fairly presented without commitment of the author.

It consists of several paragraphs, each one containing a distinct viewpoint supported by reasons and examples. The for and against arguments may be equal in number or not.

BALANCED ESSAY/ FOR & AGAINST ESSAY

OPINION ESSAY

The closing paragraph gives a balanced consideration of the topic; it may also include the opinion of the writer. The personal opinion may be given only in this paragraph, directly or indirectly.

The conclusion reaffirms a general reflection on the topic and restates the authors opinion using different words.

You always need examples to support the arguments: wellknown incidents, historical facts, socio-political events are more convincing than imagination and quality literature or famous peoples lives are more persuasive than personal experience; Use formal language, not contractions, slang or colloquial; Apply adequate style: a touch of humour or irony, a light tone can have a good effect on the reader but would not be appropriate for a topic discussing capital punishment or child abuse in modern society; The highly emotional language or too abstract reasoning are not recommended but you can use rhetorical questions; Use famous proverbs, quotations and figures (percentages, for example), but dont forget to specify the source; Dont bring irrelevant arguments or imagined situations; Dont use a series of short sentences or too long, winded phrases

INTRODUCTION
This is the first paragraph of your essay, in which you are supposed to introduce the subject and/ or state your opinion clearly. To state your opinion, these are some of the language structures you may use (preferably, once only): I believe/feel/think that From my point of viewTo my way of thinkingAs far as I am concernedIn my opinion/viewI am totally againstI completely disagree withI dont agree withIt seems/appears to me thatI (completely) agree with/that...etc.

That possessions can alter a mans life is irrefutable: from offering unlimited social connections and infinite possibilities of entertainment to providing constant attention and power of decision. But is financial prosperity a bliss or has it got considerable downsides? Does it supply friends or enemies literally and figuratively?

BODY In the body paragraphs, you have to sustain your ideas with more than one argument. Each/ separate paragraph should present a different point of view. A well-developed paragraph contains a clear topic sentence which summarises the entire paragraph, as well as clear justification, explanation or examples in support of the point presented. Your for or against side(s) should be supported in the last body paragraph(s) thus leading the reader to your conclusion. For arranging your ideas and arguments, you may use the following language structures: To begin with, First of all/Firstly, Second of all/Secondly, Additionally, However, In contrast, Furthermore, On the one hand, On the other hand, While, Although, And last but not least/Finally, etc

On the one hand, wealth brings spotlight upon the person in cause, by surrounding her with everyone who is anyone, with the best of the specialists, with all the high-life choices and opportunities. Hence, not only does it present boundless enjoyment and public relationships, but it also offers all the top-class facilities and collectives, catering for every material and communicational need. Moreover, richness, and the fame that goes along with it, grants a comfortable position in society, one where capital decisions and generous contributions to the community can be made. The outspoken opinions of the wealthy concerning the future of a nation can be instilled to the population and a point in case would be Arnold Schwartzenegger, who proved this by choosing a political career in which he could use his financial and idiosyncratic attributes. A further example of aid towards the world is the implication in charitable acts, two examples being Bono and Brad Pitt.

On the other hand, envy is drawn upon a wealthy person, both from people on a similar level and from people who will never reach such affluence. Either by considering that a competition of accomplishing a certain level of comfort exists, that there is a misuse of money or that the fortune has been achieved in a mischievous, morally incorrect way, people become enemies for the rich and famous. Consequently, a threat appears, with a burden that is sometimes hard to withstand, and Ernest Hemingway gives his point of view: Fear of death increases in exact proportion to increase in wealth.

Additionally, although money can buy substance, the essence can not be bought. Things such as freedom, friendship and love vanish, as fame and wealth reject the notion of a private, family life and the attention is permanently upon the rich people; similarly, the health factor is essential, and an opulent lifestyle can virtually destroy it. Thus, prosperity does not necessarily imply genuine happiness or a longer life.

CONCLUSION This is the last paragraph of your essay and this is where you should summarise the main points, or restate your opinion and give a balanced consideration of the topic. To do this, you may use the following language structures: In conclusion, To conclude with, Briefly, On the whole, All things considered, All in all, To sum up, I therefore (firmly) believe/ conclude that, I am convinced that etc.

Taking these points into consideration/ All in all, we can clearly see that while everyone craves for a state of richness, it can also prove to be disadvantageous and unsatisfactory. Therefore, we must ask: is wealth a wonderful blessing or a hideous curse?

PUT THE PARAGRAPHS OF THIS ESSAY INTO THE CORRECT ORDER. DEVELOP THE IDEAS: THE QUESTION OF SPORTS A. First of all, schools have a responsibility to educate children in all areas. For that reason, it is just as important to provide Physical Education training for the professional sportsmen as it is to provide academic training to those who will go to university. B. In addition, students these days spend long hours studying or working at their computers. Therefore, they need the opportunity to do some physical activity during the school day. C. In conclusion, I strongly believe that sports and Physical Education should remain a key part of the school curriculum. All students have the right to a balanced education and this means the opportunity to learn how to play sports. D. On the other hand, some people believe that the purpose of schools is to develop skills that the students will use in their future jobs. Consequently, schools have little time to devote to less important subjects as Physical Education. E. The ancient Greeks always thought that a healthy mind in a healthy body is the key to a well-balanced life. Nowadays, many schools are decreasing the amount of time given to sports and Physical Education and some schools are removing it altogether. Although academic subjects are certainly a very important part of the school curriculum, I am convinced that the complete removal of sports and Physical Education classes.

Express your opinion on the following statement: People resent having their liberty restricted. Bring examples to support your arguments.

An Opinion Essay Introduction Main body Conclusion

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