Chapters
What is Discursive Writing?
Discursive writing is a type of formal writing that explores a topic by presenting a balanced discussion of different perspectives before arriving at a conclusion. Unlike descriptive or narrative writing, the focus is not on telling a story but on developing reasoned arguments, considering multiple viewpoints, and drawing logical conclusions.
For and Against Essays – Explore both sides of an issue before presenting a conclusion.
Opinion Essays – Focus more on your own viewpoint, supported with evidence and reasoning.
Problem–Solution Essays – Discuss an issue, outline possible solutions, and evaluate them.
How to Structure a Discursive Essay
A clear structure will make your writing coherent and persuasive. Here’s a simple framework:
| Section | Purpose | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction | Introduce the topic, provide background, and state the focus of your essay. | Use a hook (a question, statistic, or thought‑provoking statement). Stay formal and clear. |
| Body Paragraphs | Present arguments for and/or against the topic. Each paragraph covers one main idea. | Start with a topic sentence, add evidence/examples, explain significance. Consider opposing views for balance. |
| Counter‑arguments | Acknowledge the other side of the argument and evaluate it. | Show why it’s reasonable but limited, and explain why your position is stronger. |
| Conclusion | Summarise the main points and present your final stance. | Avoid introducing new arguments. End with a strong closing sentence. |
Language and Style Tips
- Use formal, objective language — avoid slang and overly casual expressions.
- Link your ideas with connectives: on the one hand, however, therefore, in contrast, for example.
- Provide evidence and examples — from real life, history, current events, or literature.
- Keep your paragraphs focused — one idea per paragraph.
- Balance your essay — don’t ignore opposing arguments.
Practice Topics for Discursive Writing
| Theme | Topic |
|---|---|
| Social Media | Does social media harm young people’s mental health? |
| How much should speech be moderated on social media? | |
| Should the government ban TikTok? | |
| How young is too young to use social media? | |
| Should children be allowed to be social media influencers? | |
| What should be done to protect children online? | |
| Will social media help or hurt your future career prospects? | |
| Is it ever acceptable to use strangers as content for social media? | |
| Phones and Devices | Should more teenagers give up their smartphones? |
| Should phones be banned at family or holiday gatherings? | |
| Does grammar still matter in the age of texting and Twitter? | |
| Should texting while driving be treated like drunk driving? | |
| How young is too young for an Apple Watch or smartphone? | |
| Does excessive phone use harm relationships? | |
| School Discipline and Attendance | Should schools ban cellphones? |
| Should schools test students for nicotine or drug use? | |
| Should students be allowed to miss school for mental health reasons? | |
| Should the school day start later in the morning? | |
| Do kids still need recess? | |
| Should students be punished for not having lunch money? | |
| Technology in School | How should schools respond to ChatGPT and AI tools? |
| Is online learning as effective as classroom learning? | |
| Should students be monitored during online exams? | |
| Should schools discipline students for what they post on social media? | |
| Should facial recognition be used in schools? | |
| Are school internet filters too restrictive? | |
| Mental Health | Is teen mental health in crisis today? |
| Should schools teach mindfulness or meditation? | |
| How can society address the ‘epidemic of loneliness’? | |
| Are emotional-support animals a necessity or a scam? | |
| Is struggle essential to achieving happiness? | |
| Should every country appoint a ‘Minister for Loneliness’? | |
| Sports | Do women’s sports deserve more attention? |
| Should boys’ and girls’ teams compete in the same leagues? | |
| Are youth sports becoming too competitive? | |
| Should high school athletes be paid? | |
| Is it selfish to take part in risky extreme sports? | |
| Should cheerleading be recognised as an Olympic sport? |
List of Discursive Writing Topics for 11 Plus Preparation
Here is a list of sample topics that can be used to practise discursive writing:
- Should students be required to wear school uniforms?
- How does life today differ from the lives of your grandparents?
- Are pets beneficial for families?
- Should children be required to do chores at home? If so, which ones?
- Are fairy tales valuable for children?
- Does society have the right to impose the death penalty?
- Should school hours be changed to run from 12:00 to 6:00 p.m.?
- Should students be free to choose their own clothes outside of school?
- Girls have it better than boys. Discuss.
- Cats make better pets than dogs. Discuss.
- What qualities make a good friend?
- Describe the scene and activities at a busy bus station.
- Books are better than television. Discuss.
- Computers should replace teachers. Discuss.
- How do you respond to discipline? How important is it at home and at school?
- Animals should not be kept in cages. Discuss.
- Should children be allowed to spend their own money however they choose?
- Should animals be used in scientific experiments?
- The school day should be two hours longer. Discuss.
Final Thoughts
Discursive writing is not just about winning an argument — it’s about showing that you can think critically, weigh up evidence, and express yourself logically. The best essays demonstrate an awareness of different perspectives, while still reaching a clear and confident conclusion.
Regular practice with a variety of topics will build confidence and prepare students for exams like the 11+, GCSEs, and beyond. More importantly, it will help them develop lifelong skills in reasoning, communication, and persuasion.
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May I receive more resourcse for IGCSE O Level Edexcel for this topics to practice for exam.
Thank you for your comment! For additional practice with Edexcel IGCSE/O Level discursive writing, you could try the following:
Past Papers and Mark Schemes: Practicing past exam papers is one of the best ways to prepare. It helps you get used to the style of questions and how marks are awarded.
Writing Prompts: Try creating essays on a variety of topics—current events, school issues, technology, or social debates. This builds flexibility in your writing.
Planning and Structure Guides: Focus on planning your essays before writing, using clear introductions, arguments with examples, and balanced conclusions.
Peer Review or Teacher Feedback: Sharing your essays for feedback helps identify areas to improve vocabulary, coherence, and argument strength.
Practicing regularly with a mix of topics and reviewing your work will give you confidence for the exam.