The discussion essay examines various perspectives on a topic, aiming to present a balanced view of it. In this type of essay, you need to address the complexity of a topic and explore different perspectives rather than arguing for only one opinion.
Structure
In a discussion essay, you should aim for at least five paragraphs, including the introduction and conclusion. If your topic is complex, you may need more paragraphs to fully explore it.
- Introduction
- Paragraph 1
- Paragraph 2
- Paragraph 3
- Conclusion
Example
Prepared for the Future?
What does it mean to be prepared for the future? Is it about knowing how to solve equations, write essays, or pass exams? Or is it about being able to think critically, adapt to change, and find your way in a rapidly shifting world? Former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan once stated, “Education is the premise of progress, in every society, in every family.” But if education is the key to progress, we must ask ourselves: what kind of knowledge do we need to meet the challenges of a changing world?
In our society, knowledge is no longer about memorising facts. Thanks to modern technology, we can find information in seconds. What we need now is the ability to understand that information, ask the right questions, and apply what we learn in meaningful ways. For instance, during a school project on climate change, my group did not just gather statistics – we had to analyse the data, understand its relevance, and present it clearly. That process taught me far more than any textbook paragraph could. It showed me that knowledge is not about what you know, but how you use it.
At the same time, there is growing debate about what schools should focus on. Should we prioritise academic content or teach practical skills that prepare us for real life? Education expert Elizabeth Rata argues that schools have moved too far away from teaching content knowledge, replacing it with vague skills and values. She believes that all students, regardless of background, deserve access to powerful ideas in traditional subjects like science, history, and literature. I agree with her to some extent – these subjects give us the tools to think critically, understand the world, and participate in society. However, I also believe that schools must leave space for creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving. In today’s society, success depends on what you know and how well you can communicate, adapt, and learn from others.
Another aspect of being prepared for the future is how we value different types of learning. For a long time, university studies were seen as the only respectable path after upper secondary school. But this is changing. Vocational education, including apprenticeships and hands-on training, is gaining recognition as a valuable and practical option. Several students thrive in vocational programmes where they can build skills, gain experience and find purpose in life. In fact, many jobs that will shape the future, from healthcare to technology, require vocational skills more than academic theory. Society is beginning to understand that success can look very different for different people, marking a shift in how we define achievement and personal growth.
Furthermore, the knowledge and skills we need will continue to change. Artificial intelligence, climate change, and globalisation reshape every part of life. To meet these challenges, we will need people who can think critically, act ethically, and keep learning throughout their lives. As the Russian author Anton Chekhov once observed, “Knowledge is of no value unless you put it into practice.” In other words, learning should go beyond the classroom and help students make a real difference in the world around them.
In conclusion, being prepared for the future is not memorising the past but learning how to face what comes next. We need to balance academic knowledge and practical skills, content and creativity. Most importantly, we need an education that helps us become thoughtful, curious, and capable individuals. The future is full of uncertainty, but with the right kind of learning, we won’t just survive it – we will create it.