Tip #24 Writing task 2: two-sided essay. Develop a structure to ensure balance between the discussion & argument

Pre-Writing Structure to Ensure Balance
1. Introduction:

• Hook: Start with a surprising fact/quote/question ("Cities worldwide face a transport paradox...")
• Two Sides: "While some argue X, others maintain Y..."
• Thesis: Clearly state your stance ("This essay agrees/disagrees because...")

2. Body 1 (Both Sides Discussion):

• Side A: Main reason + simple rationale (2 sentences)
  • "Proponents of X assert that... They point to [evidence] as proof."
• Side B: Contrasting reason + rationale (2 sentences)
  • "Conversely, advocates of Y suggest... They highlight [evidence]."
• Key Skill: Use reported speech verbs (claim, argue, highlight, contend)

3. Body 2 (Your Opinion):

• Your Reason: Chain argument ("If A, then B...")
• Counter: "Some may argue X, but this ignores Y..."
• Example: Framed with intro/conclusion ("Singapore’s congestion pricing demonstrates...")

4. Conclusion:

• Clincher: Memorable phrase ("Urban mobility is more than asphalt vs. rail...")
• Summary: 1-line recap of both sides + your view
• Forward Look: Hope/prediction ("Future cities must prioritize...")

Task 2 Topic
"Some believe technology makes people less creative, while others argue it enhances creativity. Discuss both views and give your opinion."

Model Essay (269 words)
[Introduction]
The digital age has revolutionized how we solve problems, sparking debate about its impact on creativity. While some contend technology stifles original thought, others believe it unlocks innovation. This essay agrees with the latter view, as technology’s tools outweigh its risks when used purposefully.
[Body 1: Both Sides]
Critics of technology claim it discourages deep thinking. They point to shortened attention spans from social media as evidence that creativity is declining (Side A). Conversely, technologists argue that AI and design software actually augment human imagination. They highlight how apps like Procreate democratize art, enabling novices to produce professional-grade work (Side B).
[Body 2: Your Opinion]
Fundamentally, technology is a creativity multiplier when guided by intention. If users leverage tools like ChatGPT for brainstorming (Condition A), they can bypass mundane tasks to focus on big ideas (Consequence B). While some fear over-reliance on algorithms (Counter), Finland’s education system proves otherwise: students using coding games scored 30% higher on creative problem-solving tests (Example). This shows technology’s potential to enhance creativity when integrated thoughtfully (Framed Conclusion).
[Conclusion]
Creativity is not a zero-sum game. Though technology poses risks if misused, its capacity to amplify human ingenuity is undeniable. I hope future pedagogies embrace this synergy to foster original thinkers.

Post-Writing Assessment
Why This Scores Band 9:

1. Structure:
   • Body 1 cleanly separates sides with reported speech ("claim, argue, highlight")
   • Body 2 uses chain argument + framed example
2. Language:
   • Academic Verbs: "contend, demonstrate, leverage"
   • Hedging: "poses risks if misused" (avoids absolutism)
   • Cohesion: "Conversely, Fundamentally, Though"
3. Content:
   • Balanced Discussion: 50/50 weight in Body 1
   • Opinion Clarity: Thesis + Body 2 align seamlessly

Common Pitfalls Avoided:
✖ Mixing opinions in Body 1 (strict separation)
✖ Overgeneralizing examples (Finland’s specific 30% data)
✖ Weak conclusion (ends with forward-looking hope)

Pro Tip:
Practice converting personal opinions into reported speech for neutrality in Body 1:
"I think X" → "Many scholars contend X"