Writing: Advanced Argumentation C1
Lesson 1: The Discursive Essay: Exploring a Topic in Depth
Listen to key concepts and examples.
Before You Start: C1 Core Concepts 🧠
Key Vocabulary (Click 🔊)
This lesson is about moving beyond simple arguments. These words are essential.
The B2 "Trap" vs. The C1 Discursive Essay
A B2 "for and against" essay often lists pros and cons like a shopping list. A C1 discursive essay analyzes the complex relationship between these different angles to create a new, smarter insight.
B2 "For and Against" Essay
"The topic of AI is complex. On one hand, AI is good for industry because it is efficient. On the other hand, it is bad because it will take jobs. In conclusion, AI has good and bad points."
C1 Discursive Essay (Nuanced)
"The discourse surrounding AI is often reduced to a simple binary of 'utopia vs. apocalypse.' However, this view is reductive. A more nuanced analysis reveals that the primary challenge is not the technology itself, but its socio-economic integration. This essay will explore the economic, ethical, and educational facets of AI..."
The 3-Step Structure of a Discursive Essay
Instead of "Pros vs. Cons," think of your essay as exploring a topic through different "lenses" or "facets."
Hook: Start with a strong, engaging opening.
Define the Discourse: Explain why the topic is complex or debated.
Thesis: State your aim (e.g., "This essay will explore the economic, ethical, and social facets of...")
Each body paragraph explores one facet of the topic. You might have paragraphs on:
- The Economic Perspective
- The Ethical/Social Impact
- The Technological/Future implications
Do not just summarize. Provide a synthesis: a final, balanced judgment that shows how the facets are connected.
Example: "Ultimately, the economic benefits cannot be separated from the ethical questions they raise..."
Your C1 Language Toolkit 🛠️ (Click 🔊)
- From an economic standpoint...
- In terms of social impact...
- Another facet to consider is...
- It could be argued that...
- This is true to a certain extent.
- This view is somewhat simplistic.
- Ultimately, these factors are not mutually exclusive.
- What this suggests is that...
- The issue is less about X and more about Y.
Practice Your C1 Analysis 🎯
Quiz: Identify the Best Thesis
Read the topic and the three possible thesis statements. Which one is the best for a C1 discursive essay?
Topic: "The rise of tourism in Cambodia."
What is the main goal of a C1 discursive essay?
Key Vocabulary Reference (Click 🔊)
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Discursive
Discussing a topic by exploring many different ideas or arguments.
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Facet
One part or aspect of a complex subject (e.g., the "economic facet").
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Nuance
A subtle, fine shade of meaning, feeling, or opinion.
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Synthesis
Combining multiple ideas to create a new, more complex understanding.
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Binary
A simple "either/or" state; seeing only two opposite sides (e.g., good/bad).
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Reductive
Treating a complex issue as if it is much simpler than it really is.
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Integration
The act of combining two or more things to create a new whole.
Your Writing Mission ⭐
Write a C1 Introduction & Outline
Your mission is to plan a C1 discursive essay. Do not write the full essay yet.
Topic: "Is the rise of the 'gig economy' (e.g., Grab, foodpanda) a positive or negative development for a country like Cambodia?"
Your Task:
- Write a C1-level Introduction (3-4 sentences):
- Start with a hook.
- State that the issue is not a simple binary (not just "good" or "bad").
- End with a thesis statement that names the facets you will explore (e.g., economic, social, regulatory).
- Write an Outline:
- Body 1 (Facet): e.g., Economic impact on workers and businesses.
- Body 2 (Facet): e.g., Social impact on traditional jobs and worker rights.
- Body 3 (Facet): e.g., Regulatory and infrastructural challenges.
- Conclusion (Synthesis): What is your final, nuanced judgment based on all three facets?