What's the paragraph plan that a for and against essay follows?
Introduction - one side of the argument (for / advantages) - the other side of the argument (against / disadvantages) - conclusion
Does the writer have to show both sides of the argument?
Yes.
How can the writer open an introduction? How can he / she close it?
You can open the introduction with a fact or general statement, with a reference to the past, etc. You can close it with a rhetorical question.
The writer can express his / her opinion in the introduction. True or false?
False.
What does the writer do in the conclusion besides summarising the main points?
Giving his or her opinion.
Can the writer use 'we'? Why (not)? If not, how could he / she fix it?
No, because it's too informal. It could be fixed by using third person instead (people, individuals, citizens, etc.).
Can the writer use contractions? Why (not)?
No, because they're too informal. The writer has to use full forms instead (is, are, cannot, does not, should not, etc.)
Can the writer be neutral in his / her point of view?
Yes.
What linking words are used to add information? Give examples.
And, in addition, moreover, furthermore, also, as well (as), what is more, etc.
What linking words are used to express contrast? Give examples.
But, however, nevertheless, nonetheless, one the one hand, on the other hand, etc.
What linking words are used to open the conclusion? Give examples.
In conclusion, to sum up, in a nutshell, to conclude with, all in all, overall, etc.
What expressions can be used to express opinion? Give examples.
In my opinion, I think (that)..., I (strongly) believe (that)..., to my mind, from my point of view, I reckon, etc.
The writer doesn't have to give examples or details for every argument. True or false?
False. Every argument needs to be backed up by an example or a piece of information that justifies the argument or further explains it.
What linking words are used to give examples? Give examples ;)
For example, for instance, such as, etc.
Can the writer use expressions such as 'a lot of', 'a bunch of', 'like' or 'stuff'? Why (not)?
No. Because they're too informal. The writer should use 'many' / 'a number of', 'a great deal of', 'such as' instead.
