Structuring Discursive Writing

Aim:	to help students understand how discursive writing is structured
Target Audience:	students
Relevance to IELTS:	General Training Writing Task 2
Organisation:	pairs or individuals
Materials needed:	Worksheet

1. Show students the information in the information box on the worksheet and discuss it with them.
   
   
2. Ask students to carry out the task on the worksheet in pairs or individually.
   
   
3. When students have completed their answers, correct them and give feedback.
   
   
4. Find another exam topic and ask students if the structure on the worksheet would suit it. They could then work out a suitable structure for the new topic, e.g.
   
   Some people believe that children’s leisure activities must be educational, otherwise they are a complete waste of time.
   
   Do you agree or disagree?
   
   Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Notes/Variations:

• There are various kinds of discursive writing e.g. discussing advantages and disadvantages, proposing solutions, justifying opinions, discussing solutions. Students often need practice in distinguishing between these different focusses, and analysing what they require them to do.