The Discursive Essay

Reference

Common mistakes

1. Discussing all three points → Choose two of the three points
   the task says two
2. No clear choice in the conclusion → On balance, X is the more effective approach because…
   you must say which is more important
3. I think it's really good and stuff. → It could be argued that this approach is highly effective.
   formal, precise language
4. Listing ideas with no examples → For instance, … · This is evident in…
   support every point

The Discursive Essay — Exercises

Essay structure and register

Circle the correct answer.

1. What must a C1 essay conclusion do? (say which of the two points is more important, and why / summarise all three points equally / introduce a new point)
2. How many of the three given points should you discuss? (two / one / all three)
3. Which sentence is best for the introduction? (In recent years, many cities have introduced measures to reduce traffic. / I'm going to talk about cars. / Cars are bad, in my opinion.)
4. Which is the most careful (hedged) claim? (It could be argued that charges are unfair. / Charges are totally unfair. / Everyone knows charges are unfair.)
5. _____ it is true that charges reduce traffic, they may be unfair. (While / Despite / However)
6. Which conclusion opening fits a C1 essay? (On balance, I believe that… / So yeah, basically… / The end.)

Complete the formal phrase

Write the missing word or words.

1. This essay will   two possible approaches.
2. The main  , however, is cost.
3.  , critics point out that charges may be unfair.
4. This tends   have an immediate effect.
5. On  , improving public transport is more effective.
6. There is evidence to   that cycle lanes reduce traffic.

The Discursive Essay — Answer Key

Essay structure and register

1. say which of the two points is more important, and why — The task asks you to choose and justify.
2. two — C1 Advanced essay: two of the three points.
3. In recent years, many cities have introduced measures to reduce traffic. — Introduce the issue formally and impersonally.
4. It could be argued that charges are unfair. — It could be argued — hedging.
5. While — Concession + clause → While.
6. On balance, I believe that… — On balance — weighing both points.

Complete the formal phrase

1. consider
2. drawback
3. Nevertheless
4. to
5. balance
6. suggest