Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
M5LA2
Instructions
Task 1: Understand The Nature of Discussion Texts
Reading as well as writing discussion text are common study assignments to students. What is
discussion text? What makes it different from other text types commonly found in your study?
How much do you know about the what and how of discussion texts? Let’s check your
knowledge.
Following is a list of statements some people say about the characteristics of discussion texts. Do
you think they are TRUE, or FALSE?
A DISCUSSION TEXT QUIZ. Do the quiz. Write a T at the end of each statement when you
think the statement is TRUE; or an F when you think it is FALSE. One of them has been
done for you.
STATEMENTS T/F
3 The body of discussion text presents supporting arguments for the writer’s point F
of view.
4 Arguments are supposed to be supported with facts or evidence. T
Discussion Texts
STRUCTURE AND FEATURES OF DISCUSSION TEXTS
Purpose
A discussion presents differing opinions, viewpoints or perspectives on an issue, enabling the
reader to explore different ideas before making an informed decision. The writer normally
explores different opinions and ends with a personal opinion or comment.
Statement of position
A discussion begins with a brief introduction describing the situation. This introduction has a
statement or question and serves the purpose of introducing the reader or listener to the author’s
point of view or thesis. Often it is recognized that there are two points of view.
Example 1
A first argument for the point of view with supporting evidence or additional details
elaborating each point.
A second argument for the issue with supporting details.
A first argument against with supporting elaboration.
A second argument against with supporting details.
Example 2
A topic sentence introduces a point, then arguments are written for and against the
issue. This should be based on researching, surveying or interviewing people.
A second topic sentence introduces a second point and is followed by arguments for
and against.
A third topic sentence introduces a second point and this is followed by arguments for
and against.
Each paragraph should be clearly structured with a topic sentence supported by details. The
supporting material could be reported speech reflecting comments from specialists who have
responded to the issue or supporting evidence. Thinking and action verbs are used to
persuasively establish and evaluate each argument, and some technical language will be
necessary.
Recommendation or conclusion
The discussion ends by presenting a personal point of view before concluding. The
recommendation or conclusion sometimes sums up both sides of the argument if they are fairly
balanced, or can recommend one argument over the other if the evidence is overwhelming.
Now begin your reading and viewing to check if you have answered all questions in the previous
correctly. Check your answers with the answer key.
B How well do you do with the quiz? Can you now identify the text structure of discussions?
Match the headings on the left column with its definition in on the right. Check your answers
with the answer key.
1 Purpose a statement of position
2 Introduction b Presents differing opinions, viewpoints or perspectives on an
issue.
c arguments against plus supporting evidence
3 Body 1
d arguments for plus supporting evidence
4 Body 2
e sums up arguments or recommends one side of the argument
5 Conclusion