Expressing Opinions
In this independent essay question, you will be asked state your opinion, any opinion, on a given topic. You will have 30 minutes to plan, write, and revise your essay. A good response will usually require that you write a minimum of 300 words.In this type of essay, you should:
- Concede alternative views
- State your opinion
- Explain the reasons for your opinion
In this kind of essay, you are stating a personal opinion about a general topic. It is polite to concede that other opinions also have merit. The following words and phrases express concession: although, even though, despite, and in spite of. It is a good idea to begin with a concession clause and then make a direct statement of opinion. This can be done in a single sentence.
| Concession clause | Statement of preference |
| Although there are many wonderful places for a tourist to visit in Japan, | I think Kyoto is the best place. |
| Even though I would like to visit South America some day, | I would choose China if I could go abroad to work. |
Explaining the reasons for your opinion
Begin with an "outline sentence" to organize your ideas for the reader.
First sentence:
Although there are many wonderful places for a tourist to visit in Japan, I think Kyoto is the best place.
Outline sentence:
There are three reasons why I believe every tourist should visit Kyoto.
Then go on to list your reasons. Use phrases such as in the first place, also, in addition, moreover, and finally to introduce each new reason. Follow each reason with an example or detail.
Example:
Although there are many wonderful places for a tourist to visit in Japan, I think Kyoto is the best place. There are three reasons why I believe every tourist should visit Kyoto.
First of all, Kyoto is one of the original capitals of Japan. Consequently, there are numerous historically important sites, such as the ancient rock garden.