Writing: Argumentative & Discursive
B2 Lesson 7: The "For and Against" (Balanced) Essay
Listen to key concepts and examples.
Before You Start 🧠
Key Vocabulary (Click 🔊)
Let's learn these key terms for essay writing.
What is a "For and Against" Essay?
A "for and against" (or "balanced") essay is a formal piece of writing that discusses the advantages (pros) and disadvantages (cons) of a specific topic.
The goal is NOT to persuade the reader that one side is 100% right. The goal is to present both sides objectively, like a journalist, before giving your personal opinion in the conclusion.
The 4-Paragraph Structure
This is the most common and effective structure for a B2 balanced essay. Each part has a specific job.
Paragraph 1: Introduction
Job: Introduce the topic and state that it has both good and bad points. Do not give your own opinion yet.
Thesis Example: "The rise of remote work offers significant flexibility, but it also presents considerable challenges for employees and companies."
Paragraph 2: Arguments FOR (Advantages)
Job: Discuss 2-3 advantages. Start with a topic sentence.
Topic Sentence Example: "On the one hand, working from home provides several clear benefits."
Paragraph 3: Arguments AGAINST (Disadvantages)
Job: Discuss 2-3 disadvantages. Start with a topic sentence that shows contrast.
Topic Sentence Example: "On the other hand, a remote work setup is not without its drawbacks."
Paragraph 4: Conclusion
Job: 1. Briefly summarize the main points. 2. Give your own balanced opinion for the first time.
Conclusion Example: "In conclusion, while remote work can be isolating, I believe its benefits of flexibility and autonomy outweigh the negatives, provided that companies manage it carefully."
Your Language Toolkit: Linking Words 🛠️ (Click 🔊)
Use these "signpost" words to guide your reader through your essay.
To Introduce Points
- Firstly,
- To begin with,
- One advantage is...
To Add More Points
- Moreover,
- Furthermore,
- In addition,
To Contrast Points
- However,
- On the other hand,
- Despite this,
To Conclude
- In conclusion,
- To sum up,
- On balance, I feel...
Example Essay: "The Pros and Cons of Tourism"
Read the example below. Notice the highlighted linking words and structure.
Tourism is one of the world's largest industries, bringing millions of people to new countries every year. However, while tourism is often seen as a benefit, it also presents significant drawbacks for local communities.
On the one hand, tourism can be extremely beneficial for a country's economy. Firstly, it creates thousands of jobs, from hotel staff to tour guides. In addition, it brings in valuable foreign money, which governments can spend on public services like roads and hospitals.
On the other hand, this industry can have serious negative effects. The main disadvantage is the environmental impact; planes produce high carbon emissions, and popular sites often suffer from pollution. Moreover, a heavy reliance on tourism can make an economy vulnerable if global travel suddenly stops.
In conclusion, tourism clearly has both advantages and disadvantages. It can boost an economy but also harm the environment. On balance, I believe that tourism is a positive force, but only if it is managed sustainably and responsibly by the government.
Practice Your Understanding 🎯
Quiz: Check Your Knowledge
Choose the best answer for each question. Click "Check Answers" when you're done.
1. Which sentence is the BEST thesis statement for a "For and Against" essay about "Social Media"?
2. A student writes, "In my opinion, cities are better than the countryside." Where should this sentence go?
Key Vocabulary Reference (Click 🔊)
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Advantage / Pro
A good point; a benefit.
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Disadvantage / Con
A bad point; a drawback.
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Objective
Based on facts, not personal feelings. (Important for Body Paragraphs)
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On balance
A phrase used to give your final opinion after considering both sides.
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To sum up
A phrase used to start a conclusion.
Your Writing Mission ⭐
Write Your First Balanced Essay
Your mission is to write a 4-paragraph "for and against" essay (120-180 words) on one of the topics below.
Topics:
1. The advantages and disadvantages of living in a big city (like Phnom Penh).
2. The pros and cons of artificial intelligence (AI).
3. The good and bad sides of the tourism industry in Cambodia.
Remember to use:
- The 4-paragraph structure (Intro, For, Against, Conclusion).
- A balanced, neutral thesis statement in your intro.
- At least 4 linking words from the "Language Toolkit."
- Your own opinion *only* at the end of the conclusion.