Essay writing is, at its core, a structured piece of writing that express a specific point of view or argument. To effectively convey this point of view or argument, an essay is typically broken down into different sections, each with its own purpose:
Introduction
- Provide context or background for your topic
- Clearly state your main thesis: your central argument or the point you want to make
- Capture the reader’s interest with a hook (a captivating statement or question)
Body Paragraphs
- Each paragraph should further explain or support your thesis
- Start with a topic sentence that outlines the main point of each paragraph
- Add a controlling idea that elaborates on the topic sentence
- Support the controlling idea with evidence, which could be examples, data, or personal experiences
Conclusion
- Summarise the main points you have discussed
- Rephrase your thesis based on your discussion
- For an argumentative essay: finish with a persuasive call to action
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
The Power of Curiosity
Have you ever been struck by the urge to learn something new or discover a place you have never visited? What drives us to learn new skills or visit new places? The answer is simple: curiosity. This irresistible pull forms a cornerstone of our collective human experience. While curiosity can unlock countless opportunities, it also has the power to lead us into uncharted, sometimes risky territories.
First and foremost, curiosity is what drives our desire to learn and grow. For instance, I was blown away the first time I watched the science fiction masterpiece Interstellar. The movie’s depiction of space travel and its philosophical undertones sparked my interest like nothing else before. This experience led me to explore other sci-fi movies like The Matrix and The Martian. Fueled by this passion, I started reading science fiction novels to learn more about the fascinating themes and ideas this world has to offer.
Furthermore, our thirst for knowledge significantly impacts our social lives. Curiosity about others can help us form meaningful relationships. As the poet Walt Whitman once put it, “Be curious, not judgmental.” I remember being intrigued by a foreign exchange student in my school. I took the first step to get to know him, which I am thankful for today, since we have become close friends. We learned so much from each other’s cultures and perspectives, making our friendship richer and more rewarding.
However, let us not forget that curiosity can get us into trouble. Have you ever heard the saying “curiosity killed the cat?” There is some truth to that. For example, a few years ago I was too curious about a rumour I heard about a friend. Instead of letting it go, I tried to learn more about the rumour and ended up hurting my friend’s feelings. That was a lesson in the risks of being overly curious. A lesson I regret to this day.
Looking ahead, new technologies like virtual reality will likely boost our natural desire to explore. We will be able to discover new worlds from the comfort of our homes. Still, this also means that we must be careful about how far our curiosity takes us. As we explore these virtual worlds, we should question how they affect our real-life relationships and responsibilities. We must carefully balance curiosity with caution so we do not lose sight of our ethical boundaries or neglect what truly matters to us in the real world.
In conclusion, curiosity is a powerful force that has the potential to enrich our lives in numerous ways. However, it can also put us at risk and make us regret our actions. As we navigate the labyrinth of life, curiosity often serves as both our guiding star and our cautionary tale. It shapes not just what we know, but who we are and who we have the potential to become.
The argumentative essay argues for a particular opinion. Your goal is to persuade the reader to agree with your viewpoint. This approach involves presenting evidence, facts, and logic to support your claims. Unlike the discussion essay, which is more balanced, the argumentative essay actively seeks to convince the reader.
Structure
In an argumentative essay, you should aim for at least six paragraphs, including the introduction and conclusion. If your topic is complex, you may need more paragraphs to cover all your arguments thoroughly. When presenting a counterargument, it is essential to refute it (meaning you will demonstrate why it is incorrect). Most argumentative essays conclude with a call to action, a compelling statement encouraging readers to act or adopt a perspective based on your presented arguments.
- Introduction
- Argument 1
- Argument 2
- Counterargument (that you refute)
- Argument 3
- Conclusion (with a call to action, urging the reader to act or reflect on your discussion)
Example
Title: Embracing Curiosity Will Transform Your Life
Introduction
Could embracing your natural curiosity be the key to unlocking your ultimate potential? Some of us have been taught to view curiosity with scepticism, as if it is a trait that could lead to unnecessary risks. Yet, what if this inner drive to explore and understand is actually one of your most powerful assets? What if nurturing your curiosity could fundamentally change how you live, learn, and connect with others?
Argument One
First and foremost, curiosity is the foundation of lifelong learning. When we let our passion for knowledge guide our lives, we turn every day into a new opportunity for discovery. You may dive into topics as varied as the algorithms powering ChatGPT, the technology behind self-driving cars, or even the science of the perfect pizza dough. As Walt Disney once said, “Curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.” This approach to learning enriches your understanding of the world and equips you with the knowledge to navigate it more effectively. In essence, your quest for knowledge becomes the compass that directs you toward a life of continuous learning and personal development.
Argument Two
Moreover, curiosity promotes creativity. It pushes you to challenge the status quo and think outside the box. When you allow yourself to be guided by your passions, you will see connections where others see boundaries. People like Steve Jobs and Marie Curie exemplify how curiosity can result in revolutionary ideas and inventions. Their thirst for knowledge led to innovations that have redefined our lives. Indeed, they demonstrate that curiosity is more than a simple interest; it is a driving force for change. As role models, they inspire us to find new answers and uncover questions that could reshape our lives and change the world for the better.
Counterargument
Critics often claim that curiosity can lead to risky or even dangerous situations. The saying “curiosity killed the cat” serves as a warning against being overly curious. While it is true that there can be dangers, is not life itself a series of risks and rewards? The key is to balance curiosity with good judgement. Risks are an inevitable part of being human, but facing them can be transformative, helping us evolve into stronger, more resilient individuals.
Argument Three
Lastly, curiosity has the remarkable power to strengthen social relationships and build empathy. When you are genuinely interested in understanding someone else’s viewpoint, you are likely to engage in meaningful dialogue. A sincere interest in other people will enrich your relationships and foster a sense of community. In an increasingly divided world, the capacity for empathy can serve as a unifying force.
Conclusion
So, does embracing curiosity have the potential to transform your life? The evidence is clear: curiosity fuels learning, enhances creativity, and fosters meaningful relationships. The risks, while present, are far outweighed by the life-altering benefits. Imagine a life where every day is a new opportunity for growth! It is time to stop asking if curiosity can change your life and start taking steps to unlock its transformative power.