Two Views + Opinion

“Some people believe X. Others think Y. What is your opinion?”
This is one of the most common — and misunderstood — IELTS Writing Task 2 essay types.
This guide gives you everything you need to master it.

What is a Discussion Essay?

This Task 2 essay type asks you to discuss both sides of an issue, and then give your own opinion.

You are not just describing — you are evaluating, comparing, and positioning yourself clearly.

Key signals:

• “Some people believe X, while others think Y. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
• “Discuss both sides and give your own view.”
• “Present arguments for both views and include your own opinion.”

You must:

• Understand both views
• Present them clearly and fairly
• Take a stance and justify it

Common Traps

Trap	Why It Hurts	Solution
❌ Only writing about one view	Fails the prompt	Cover both perspectives before offering your own
❌ Weak stance	Examiners want your opinion	Use strong phrases like “I believe the second view is more convincing…”
❌ Confused paragraphing	Hurts coherence	Use a clear body structure: View 1 → View 2 → Opinion
❌ Opinion not explained	Task Response drops	Give logical reasons and relevant examples

Discussion Essay Structure Template

Here’s a reliable 4–5 paragraph model:

Introduction

• Hook with a situation sentence
• Paraphrase the question
• Briefly preview both views
• State your opinion clearly
E.g.: “While some people believe X, others argue Y. I personally support Y because…”

Body Paragraph 1 – First View

• Topic sentence
• Explanation
• Real-world example (society, education, work)
• Conclude the paragraph

Body Paragraph 2 – Second View

• Topic sentence for the other side
• Explanation
• Example
• Implication or subtle comparison

Body Paragraph 3 (Optional) – Your View

• Clear statement of your stance
• Justification
• Example or contrast with the others

Conclusion

• Summarize both views briefly
• Restate your opinion with strong language

Band 8 Model Essay + Breakdown

Question:

Some people think children should start school as early as possible, while others believe they should begin at least at age 7. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Band 8 Model Essay:

The ideal starting age for formal education has long been debated. While some argue that early schooling gives children a head start, others contend that it may hinder natural development. This essay will examine both perspectives before arguing that a later start is more beneficial overall.

Proponents of early education believe that it accelerates cognitive development. Starting school at the age of 4 or 5 allows children to acquire basic literacy and numeracy skills early, which can provide long-term academic advantages. For example, countries like the UK, where children begin school early, often report high literacy rates in primary education.

On the other hand, some believe that formal schooling should begin no earlier than age 7, as this respects the natural developmental stages of children. Delaying school allows for unstructured play, emotional growth, and family bonding. Finland, often cited for its world-class education system, starts formal education at age 7—and consistently ranks near the top globally.

In my opinion, while early exposure to learning can be helpful, a more relaxed start supports healthier emotional and cognitive growth. A delayed approach provides the foundation for long-term learning rather than short-term academic performance.

In conclusion, although early schooling offers certain advantages, the long-term benefits of starting at age 7 outweigh the short-term gains. A well-timed beginning fosters curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning.

Why This Scores Band 8+

Band Descriptor	Strength in Essay
✅ Task Response	Fully covers both views and clearly presents opinion
✅ Coherence & Cohesion	Logical progression and strong transitions
✅ Lexical Resource	Strong topic-specific vocabulary (developmental stages, cognitive growth)
✅ Grammatical Range	Complex structures and accurate tense use

Planning Your Essay (Fast + Strategic)

1. Identify the two views clearly
2. Choose your own position
3. Plan one main idea and one example per paragraph
4. Decide where to place your opinion
5. Use linking phrases to guide the reader

Vocabulary Frames That Boost Clarity

Introducing a View:

• “Supporters of this view claim that…”
• “Many argue that…”

Presenting the Other Side:

• “Others hold the opposite opinion, stating that…”
• “Critics of this view believe…”

Expressing Your Opinion:

• “While both views are valid, I personally believe…”
• “In my view, the benefits of X outweigh the drawbacks of Y.”

Justifying a Claim:

• “This is largely because…”
• “A key reason for this is…”

Band 6 vs Band 7: What’s the Difference?

Band 6 Essay	Band 7 Essay
Overgeneralized ideas	Specific and logically developed
Weak or unclear opinion	Clear stance and logical flow
Repetitive vocabulary	Range of precise academic phrases
Poor paragraphing	Clear structure with transitions

See how clarity, balance, and precision create the jump from 6.5 to 7.

Downloads & Bonus Tools

• 10 High-Impact Power Openings (PDF)
• Discussion Essay Map (PDF)
• Glossary of IELTS Essay Terms (PDF)

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FAQ

Q: Can I agree with both views?
Yes — but your opinion must be clear and justified.

Q: Is a discussion essay the same as an opinion essay?
No. In an opinion essay, you support one side only. In a discussion essay, you discuss both before giving your opinion.

Q: How long should my discussion essay be?
You must write at least 250 words. Band 7+ essays are often 270–290 words, with clear structure and development.