Choosing And Supporting A Point-Of-View
In this independent essay question, you will be asked state your preference between two points-of-view. 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 the opposing view
- State your opinion
- Explain the reasons for your opinion
In this kind of essay, you are stating a preference or choosing between two points-of-view. It is polite to concede that the opposing view also has 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 advantages to driving to work, | I prefer to take the train. |
| Even though technology can damage the environment, | I think it causes more good than harm. |
| Despite the differences among countries, | I believe that the future will be peaceful. |
| In spite of the benefits of distance learning, | I prefer to study at a school. |
Explaining the reasons for your opinion
Begin with an "outline sentence" to organize your ideas for the reader.
First sentence:
Although there are many advantages to driving to work, I prefer to take the train.
Outline sentence:
There are three reasons why I believe it is better to commute.
First sentence:
Despite the differences between countries, I believe the future will be peaceful.
Outline sentence:
There are several encouraging examples of the world becoming more peaceful.
First sentence:
In spite of the benefits of distance learning, I prefer to study at a school.
Outline sentence:
I have three main reasons for my preference.
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.
Although there are many advantages to driving to work or school, I prefer to take the train. There are three reasons why I believe it is better to commute by train.
First of all, I can use my commute time to read or study something. For example, I recently used my thirty-minute commute to prepare for a history test. Because I had time to study on the train, I did well on the test.