Pros and Cons
Chapter 3
Discussion Text
Function: to express our
opinion about a certain issue whether it is a pro or a con
Structure of discussion text
Title: to get a balance on a picture and point of view about an issue.
Issue: indicating an issue
Argument ‘for’: express
arguments to support an issue
Argument ‘against’: express arguments to against an issue.
Elaboration: writer opinion
Conclusion
Features:
The present tense
Modals
Connective words
Contrasting connector
the present tense
Language Features of Discussion Text
the present continuous tense
the use of modal ‘should’
connective words past tense
S + V1s/es + O/C
S + Ving + O/C
We should…, the government should…,
And, also, such as, however, etc.
S + V2 + O/C
Connective Words
To link ideas, so that there is unity in a paragraph.
Connectives Functions
And, also, as well as, besides, finally, furthermore, moreover, in addition to
More information follows.
For examples, such as, the following, like, for
instance Examples will follow.
Even if, however, in spite of, instead of,
nevertheless, on the other hand, despite, still, yet An opposite idea will follow as a result.
But, except An exception will follow.
Connective Words
To link ideas, so that there is unity in a paragraph.
Connectives Functions
As a result of, because of, due to, in order to, since
Information about the cause of something follow.
As a consequence, as a result, consequently, so, so that, therefore
Information about the effects of something follow
Contrastive Conjunction
Followed by a clause:
although, even though, though, even if, whatever Followed by a noun: In
spite of, despite, no matter how
Comment Adverbs
It is used to express our opinion on something.
Examples:
personally
obviously
clearly
undoubtly
To express pro opinion To express con opinion
I agree with you.
I’m positive about that.
I like it that way.
I’m afraid I disagree.
I’m not sure about that.
I don’t see it that way.
Well, on my opinion….
Actually, I think….
You can’t be serious.
No way.
Expressing Arguments
Cultural Awareness
Debating Express
disagreement politely by paying intonation to the word choice and intonation of your speech.
Intro Phrasing Closing
Well. I’m afraid I
disagree. Let’s agree to disagree.
Actually. I beg to differ. Let me tell you my reason.
Very true. But I don’t see it
that way. Sorry to disagree.
Ways to Say It
Saying, “I disagree” in spoken English is
considered to direct.
Besides using phrases in the previous table, you may use and indirect
disagreement.
Indirect Disagreement
Well, in my opinion….
Actually I think….
Informal Disagreement
You can’t be serious.
No way.
