Discursive Writing (Balanced Argument)
Purpose/Audience PEE Technique
Introduction • This introduces the idea or theme
you are going to discuss.
• It should capture the reader’s
interest and engages them – just
like in narrative writing.
• Outline the main points and try to the purpose.
introduce the topic in a lively and
engaging way.
• Avoid introducing any main
arguments in this paragraph.
• You might like to provide
some background information
on the topic here.
Vocabulary/Phrases You Might Use
• You don’t need to use this here, as • When discussing the topic of...
it is more of a general summary of
what you will be discussing. • Have you ever stopped to consider...?
• It may be useful to use the • The use of ...... has long been debated.
language of the question/essay
title to help you discuss • ......are often a controversial topic.
• The truth: it’s hard to find, isn’t it?
• Opening with a quotation/
question or statement can be • In a novel based on......we often find reference
effective. Remember that, even in to...
this style of writing, engaging the
reader is important. • ......is a fascinating question...
• If discussing a text, a brief *Try to use the third person (and passive voice).
summary can be used but do
*Avoid using ‘I’ –this can weaken your discussion/
not retell the entire plot.
arguments.
*Use Standard English and a variety of vocabulary.
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 Discursive Writing (Balanced Argument)

Initial • In discursive writing, there are Point: Make sure your points are Sequencing Adding Comparing
Paragraph/s different ways you can approach clear and relevant to the question.
Firstly and Similarly
the structure. Evidence: Support each point with
(Introducing one/
an example/fact/statistic/quotation. Secondly Also Likewise
similar side/s of
• Some people like to address one Explanation: Explain how this is
the argument) Finally As well as As with
side of the argument in the first relevant to the initial question
few paragraphs, followed by asked or essay title. Subsequently Moreover Like
the other side of the argument
*It is always important to link too Equally
in the remaining paragraphs.
to what you were initially asked
Furthermore In the same way
to ensure you are answering the
question. You should also explain Additionally
the finer points of your evidence.
In addition

Contrasting • Present the opposing/contrasting Point: Make sure your points are Contrasting Illustrating Cause and Effect
Paragraph/s views equally. clear and relevant to the question. Whereas For example because
Evidence: Support each point with
(Introducing
• Discuss the other side/s an example/fact/statistic/quotation. Instead of Such as So
the opposing
of the argument. Explanation: Explain how this is
argument/s) Alternatively For instance Therefore
relevant to the initial question
asked or essay title. Otherwise In the case of Thus

*It is always important to link back Unlike As revealed by Consequently

to what you were initially asked On the other hand Illustrated by Hence
to ensure you are answering the
question. You should also explain Conversely shown when
the finer points of your evidence.

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 Discursive Writing (Balanced Argument)

Conclusion • Reach a decision, based on the • You do not need to use PEE here. Emphasising In conclusion
discussion, about your view.
In particular To conclude
• You might like to refer to key
• This is about summarising the points that you have discussed Above all Finally
reasons behind your beliefs. already in the essay/response.
Especially Ultimately

• You might explain what swayed Significantly Having given all opinions due
your view. consideration...
Indeed

• Be more succinct with language Notably

and try to end your response
with a strong statement.

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