Discussion Text: Definition, Structure, Language Features, and Example
Have you ever talked about an issue from two different sides? For example, some people agree with school rules, but some others think school rules are too strict.
A text that presents an issue from different points of view is called a discussion text. In this lesson, we will learn discussion text in easy English.
Purpose: To present an issue from two or more points of view before giving a conclusion or recommendation.
What Is Discussion Text?
Discussion text is a text that talks about an issue from different sides. It usually presents arguments for and arguments against the issue before giving a conclusion or recommendation.
Discussion text helps readers see both sides of an issue before making a decision.
Generic Structure of Discussion Text
1. Issue
This part introduces the topic or problem that will be discussed.
2. Arguments For
This part gives opinions or reasons that support the issue.
3. Arguments Against
This part gives opinions or reasons that disagree with the issue.
4. Conclusion
This part gives the final opinion, conclusion, or recommendation.
Language Features of Discussion Text
Discussion text usually uses some language features, such as:
- General nouns: school rules, students, teachers, regulations
- Relating verbs: are, is, have, seem
- Thinking verbs: think, believe, argue, feel
- Contrastive connectives: however, on the other hand, in contrast
- Additive connectives: also, besides, moreover, in addition
- Cause and effect connectives: because, so, therefore, as a result
- Modalities: should, must, may, can, will
- Adverbs of manner: fairly, efficiently, clearly, unnecessarily
Example of Discussion Text
Are School Rules Necessary?
Issue
Many people have different opinions about school rules. Some people believe that school rules are necessary, while others think that too many rules can limit students’ freedom.
✅ Arguments For School Rules
Some people believe that school rules are important. Without rules, the school may become disorganized.
For example, if there are no rules for moving around the school, students may crowd the hallways between lessons. If there are no uniform rules, students may not look neat and disciplined.
School rules also help students know what they can and cannot do. As a result, the school can run more safely, fairly, and efficiently.
⚖️ Arguments Against School Rules
On the other hand, some people argue that too many school rules are unnecessary. They believe that students are old enough to understand how to behave.
These people think that students should be trusted more. They also believe that very strict rules can make students feel uncomfortable.
In their opinion, schools should not control every small thing. Students need freedom to learn responsibility.
Conclusion / Recommendation
In conclusion, school rules are still necessary, but they should be fair and reasonable. Students do not need too many strict rules, but they do need clear rules to help the school run well.
Therefore, schools should keep important rules and explain them clearly to students.
Why Is This Text a Discussion Text?
This text is a discussion text because it presents one issue from two sides. It gives arguments for school rules and arguments against school rules before giving a conclusion.
Discussion Text vs Hortatory Exposition
Discussion text and hortatory exposition can both talk about opinions, but they are different.
Discussion text shows two sides of an issue before giving a conclusion. Hortatory exposition usually gives arguments to persuade readers to do or believe something.
Practice Questions
Try to answer these questions first. Click each question to see the answer.
1. What is the purpose of discussion text?
The purpose of discussion text is to present an issue from different points of view before giving a conclusion or recommendation.
2. What are the four main parts of discussion text?
The four main parts are issue, arguments for, arguments against, and conclusion or recommendation.
3. What is the issue in the example text?
The issue is whether school rules are necessary or not.
4. Mention one argument for school rules.
One argument is that school rules help the school run safely, fairly, and efficiently.
5. Mention one argument against school rules.
One argument is that too many strict rules can limit students’ freedom.
Conclusion
Discussion text is used to discuss an issue from different points of view. It usually has an issue, arguments for, arguments against, and a conclusion or recommendation. To write a good discussion text, try to present both sides clearly and fairly.
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