Baccalaureate Preparation - Writing

[Florina Codreanu]

Dears,

Here you have the details about opinion and for and against essays you are going to have within the Writing Paper:

1. Opinion Essay

Opinion essay is a formal piece of essay writing which presents the author’s point of view on a particular subject supported by reasons and examples. The opposing viewpoint is also suggested, it goes with arguments that show that it is unconvincing.A Successful Opinion Essay Consists of:

An introduction where the topic and the author’s opinion are stated clearly.

A main body where viewpoints supported by reasons are presented in several paragraphs. This section has also the opposing viewpoint which is proved to be unconvincing.

A conclusion where the main points of the essay are summarized and the author’s opinion is restated in other words.

Useful Tips for Writing an Opinion Essay:

Decide your opinion as for the topic discussed
Make a list of viewpoints and reasons supporting your point of view

Write well-developed paragraphs

Use linking words and phrases to join the sentences and the paragraphs within the text

Start each paragraph with a topic sentence

!!!Task: Write an opinion essay about Mobile Phones at School (Deadline: the 9th of May)

2. For and Against Essay

A "for and against" essay is a formal piece of writing in which a topic is considered from opposing points of view. You should present both sides in a fair way by discussing them objectively and in equal detail. A good essay of this type should consist of:

a) an introductory paragraph in which you clearly state the topic to be discussed, without giving your opinion;
b) a main body in which the points for and against along with your justifications, examples or reasons are presented in separate paragraphs; and
c) a closing paragraph in which you state your opinion or give a balanced consideration of the topic.

Note: Opinion words (I think, I believe, In my opinion, etc.) can only be used in the closing paragraph where you give your opinion on the topic.

Points to consider

• Before you start writing your essay you should make a list of the points for and against.
• Each paragraph should start with a topic sentence which summarises the topic of the paragraph.
e.g. In addition, many people feel reading is a relaxing and worthwhile activity.
• Do not use informal style (e.g. short forms, colloquial language, etc.) or strong language to express your opinion (e.g. I know…, etc.). Express your opinion in a non-emotional way (e.g. It seems that, I therefore feel, etc.).
• Well-known quotations relevant to the topic you are writing about will make your composition more interesting. For example, if you are writing an essay on education, a quotation you may include is: "Education is a progressive discovery of our own ignorance." (Will Durant)
Note: Although these are "balanced" arguments, if you feel that either the for or against side is stronger and should be supported, this side should be presented in paragraphs 4 & 5, thus leading the reader to your conclusion.

Introduction
Paragraph 1
state topic (summary of the topic without giving your opinion)
Main Body
Paragraphs 2 & 3
arguments for & justifications, examples, and/ or reasons
Paragraphs 4 & 5
arguments against & justification, examples, and/or reasons
Conclusion
Final Paragraph
balanced consideration/ your opinion directly or indirectly

!!!Task: Write a For and Against Essay about Violent video games directly correlate to violence in schools (Deadline: the 16th  of May)

Good luck!

p.s.: those that weren't present on Friday please keep in mind that our BAC preparation is as follows:

Monday: Speaking / Listening

Tuesday: Reading

Thursday: Writing

Friday: Creative Writing

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Florina Codreanu
(004) 0740 091 395
Plopilor 61/15, 400379 Cluj-Napoca
http://florinacodreanu.blogspot.com/