B2 Stage 4: Full paragraph

Argue your opinion with two reasons

How to argue your opinion with two reasons

You can argue for your opinion in one paragraph with two different reasons and an example.

This guide is for B1 writers moving to B2. It is a stage 4 skill: write one full paragraph (110-170 words).

When to use an argued opinion

Whenever you are asked for your opinion in a paragraph. It uses everything you have learned so far.

An argued opinion: how to do it

In one paragraph: 1) say your opinion, 2) give a first reason and explain it, 3) give a second, different reason and explain it, 4) add an example for one of the reasons, 5) end with your opinion again, in new words. After each reason ask yourself 'why?', and after each claim ask 'for example?'. Use words that guide the reader: The first reason is, Another reason is, For example, For these reasons. Do not write 'I think' in every sentence.

Useful language for an argued opinion

In my view, ...
The first reason is that ...
Another reason is that ...
For example, ...
This means that ...
For these reasons, ...

Example of an argued opinion

Secondary schools should start later in the morning. The first reason is that teenagers need more sleep than adults, and many of them find it hard to fall asleep early. If lessons begin at nine instead of eight, they are more awake and can concentrate better, so their marks are likely to improve. Another reason is safety. Students who travel in the dark, on busy roads, are at greater risk than those who travel in daylight. For example, a fifteen-year-old who walks to school at seven on a winter morning has to cross a main road when the traffic is heavy and the light is poor. For these reasons, a later start would make school days healthier and safer for teenagers.

Topic: A later start to the school day

How the BetterWrite coach checks an argued opinion

The BetterWrite coach checks 5 points for this skill, plus accuracy and staying on topic, and quotes your own words when one is not there yet.

Try it

Write one paragraph (110-170 words) for your teacher about cooking lessons at school. Say whether you are for or against it, give two different reasons and one example.

Write 110-170 words (one full paragraph).