English Second Language (AS)·2 · Writing Skills · NSSCAS 5.2.4
The discursive essay: a balanced, dialectical structure
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Paper 2 asks you to Discuss. Miss Veronica shows you how a discursive essay explores both sides fairly and then leans: the dialectical structure (thesis, antithesis, synthesis), a two-column plan, block versus point-by-point juxtaposition, a neutral hedged register, and a measured conclusion in 220 to 260 words.
What you'll learn in this lesson
By the end you should be able to (NSSCAS English Second Language (AS) 5.2.4):
- Learners should be able to explain what makes an essay discursive, and how it differs from an argumentative essay.
- Learners should be able to identify the command words in a Paper 2 topic that signal a discursive response.
- Learners should be able to name and use the dialectical structure: thesis, antithesis and synthesis.
- Learners should be able to plan a discursive essay in two balanced columns of for and against points.
- Learners should be able to choose between a block layout and a point-by-point layout, and justify the choice.
- Learners should be able to write in a neutral, objective register using hedging language.
- Learners should be able to use connectives of contrast and concession to juxtapose two views inside one paragraph.
- Learners should be able to write a measured conclusion that takes a position without dismissing the opposing view.
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Miss Veronica and Mike talk through the whole topic — with the figure and working drawn live.