Discuss Both Views IELTS Essay: Structure and Band 9 Samples

Quick Answer: The "discuss both views" essay requires you to present balanced arguments for two opposing viewpoints on a topic, then give your own opinion. Use a clear four-paragraph structure: introduction, first view with supporting points, second view with supporting points, and conclusion with your opinion. Practice with our band 9 samples to master this task.

Table of Contents

What is a "Discuss Both Views" IELTS Essay?

The Proven Structure for Band 9

How to Plan Your Essay in 5 Minutes

Band Score Comparison

Real Examples: Band 7, 8, and 9 Responses

Common Mistakes

Pro Tips from IELTS Active

How IELTS Active Helps

FAQ

Key Takeaways

What is a "Discuss Both Views" IELTS Essay?

The "discuss both views" essay, also known as "discuss both sides," is one of the five main IELTS Task 2 question types. In this prompt, you are presented with two opposing viewpoints on a specific issue. Your task is to discuss both views fairly and then provide your own opinion. This essay type tests your ability to present balanced arguments, analyze different perspectives, and articulate a clear personal stance.

Common prompts include phrases like "Discuss both views and give your opinion," "Discuss both sides of this argument," or "Discuss both points of view." For example:

"Some people believe that governments should spend money on public services like healthcare and education, while others think that money should be spent on building infrastructure like roads and bridges. Discuss both views and give your opinion."

This essay type accounts for approximately 30% of all IELTS Task 2 questions, making it essential to master. The key is balance: you must give equal weight to both sides before stating your own view.

The Proven Structure for Band 9

A band 9 "discuss both views" essay follows a clear, logical structure. Here’s the exact template:

Paragraph 1: Introduction

Sentence 1: Paraphrase the topic (restate the issue in your own words).

Sentence 2: State that there are two views.

Sentence 3: Outline your essay structure (e.g., "This essay will discuss both perspectives and then offer my opinion.")

Paragraph 2: First View

Topic sentence: Introduce the first view (e.g., "On one hand, many argue that...").

Supporting point 1: Explain why people hold this view.

Example or evidence: Provide a specific example.

Supporting point 2: Add another reason or elaboration.

Paragraph 3: Second View

Topic sentence: Introduce the second view (e.g., "On the other hand, opponents believe that...").

Supporting point 1: Explain the opposing argument.

Example or evidence: Provide a specific example.

Supporting point 2: Add another reason or elaboration.

Paragraph 4: Conclusion with Your Opinion

Sentence 1: Summarize both views briefly.

Sentence 2: State your opinion clearly.

Sentence 3: Provide a final thought or recommendation.

This structure ensures you address all parts of the question, maintain balance, and present a coherent argument. Remember: your opinion can agree with one side, both sides, or offer a middle ground.

How to Plan Your Essay in 5 Minutes

Effective planning is crucial for a high score. Follow this 5-minute plan:

Analyze the question (1 minute): Underline keywords, identify the two views, and note that you need to give your opinion.

Brainstorm ideas (2 minutes): For each view, write down 2-3 supporting points. Think of examples from real life, history, or current events.

Decide your opinion (1 minute): Choose which side you agree with or if you have a balanced view. This will guide your conclusion.

Outline your essay (1 minute): Write a quick structure with main points for each paragraph. Use bullet points.

Example prompt: "Some people think that the best way to reduce crime is to give longer prison sentences. Others, however, believe that there are better alternative ways. Discuss both views and give your opinion."

Your plan might look like:

View 1 (longer sentences): Deterrent effect, protects society.

View 2 (alternatives): Rehabilitation, education, community programs.

Your opinion: Agree with alternatives but acknowledge prison for serious crimes.

This plan keeps you focused and prevents writer’s block during the exam.

Band Score Comparison

Band	Score	What Examiner Wants
6	6.0-6.5	Addresses both views but may be unbalanced. Limited vocabulary and grammar errors. Opinion is unclear or missing.
7	7.0-7.5	Discusses both views with some balance. Good vocabulary and grammar with few errors. Opinion is clear but could be more developed.
8	8.0-8.5	Fully balanced discussion of both views. Wide range of vocabulary and complex structures. Opinion is well-articulated and supported.
9	9.0	Perfectly balanced, insightful arguments. Sophisticated vocabulary and flawless grammar. Opinion is original and logically reasoned.

Real Examples: Band 7, 8, and 9 Responses

Band 7 Response: Prompt: "Some people think that children should be taught to be competitive in school. Others believe that cooperation is more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion."

"Many people argue that children should learn to be competitive at school, while others think that cooperation is more valuable. This essay will discuss both sides and then give my opinion.

On one hand, competition can motivate children to work harder. For example, when students compete for good grades, they may study more. This can prepare them for the real world where competition is common.

On the other hand, cooperation teaches children to work with others. In group projects, students learn to share ideas and solve problems together. This skill is important for future jobs.

In my opinion, both competition and cooperation are important. I think schools should teach a balance of both skills.

Feedback: This essay addresses the topic but lacks depth. Vocabulary is basic, and the opinion is simple. It would score around Band 6.5-7. Band 8 Response: "The debate over whether schools should emphasize competition or cooperation has been ongoing. While competition can foster ambition, cooperation is equally crucial for social development. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view.

Proponents of competition argue that it drives academic excellence. When students compete for top marks, they are more likely to push their boundaries and achieve higher results. For instance, many successful entrepreneurs attribute their drive to early competitive experiences in school.

Conversely, advocates for cooperation highlight the importance of teamwork in modern society. In collaborative settings, students develop empathy, communication skills, and the ability to resolve conflicts. These are essential for careers in fields like healthcare or technology.

In my view, a balanced approach is optimal. Schools should incorporate both competitive activities, such as sports and academic contests, alongside cooperative projects. This prepares children for a world that values both individual achievement and teamwork.

Feedback: This essay has good structure, clear arguments, and examples. Vocabulary is varied. It would score around Band 7.5-8. Band 9 Response: "The perennial question of whether educational environments should prioritize competition or cooperation reflects deeper societal values. While competition can ignite individual ambition, cooperation cultivates essential interpersonal skills. This essay will provide a balanced analysis of both viewpoints before offering a nuanced personal perspective.

Those who champion competition argue that it mirrors the realities of adult life. In a globalized economy, individuals must often vie for limited resources, from university admissions to job promotions. Schools that foster a competitive spirit, through activities like spelling bees or math olympiads, equip students with resilience and a drive for excellence. For example, countries like South Korea and Finland have highly competitive education systems that produce top-performing students.

On the other hand, proponents of cooperation contend that the most pressing challenges of our time—such as climate change and pandemics—require collective action. Cooperative learning environments, where students work in groups on projects like community clean-ups or science fairs, teach negotiation, empathy, and shared problem-solving. This approach is particularly effective in diverse classrooms, where students learn from different perspectives.

In my considered opinion, the dichotomy between competition and cooperation is false. An ideal educational system integrates both, recognizing that they are complementary rather than contradictory. For instance, team sports like soccer require both individual skill (competition) and teamwork (cooperation). Schools should therefore design curricula that balance individual assessments with group projects, preparing students for a multifaceted world.

Feedback: This essay demonstrates sophisticated vocabulary, complex sentence structures, and a well-developed opinion. It is perfectly balanced and insightful. It would score Band 9.

Common Mistakes

❌Mistake 1: Not giving your opinion clearly. Some students forget to state their opinion or hide it in the conclusion. The examiner must see your stance clearly.

❌Mistake 2: Being unbalanced. Discussing one view in detail but only briefly mentioning the other. Both views should have equal depth.

❌Mistake 3: Using vague examples. Saying "for example" without a concrete example. Always provide a specific, real-world instance.

❌Mistake 4: Repeating the same vocabulary. Using "think" or "believe" repeatedly. Use synonyms like "argue," "contend," "assert," "maintain."

❌Mistake 5: Writing a long introduction. Spending too much time on the intro and not enough on body paragraphs. Keep it concise.

Pro Tips from IELTS Active

Tip 1: Use linking words to show contrast: "On one hand... On the other hand," "While some argue... others contend," "In contrast."

Tip 2: Practice with past exam questions. The more you write, the more natural the structure becomes. Time yourself for 40 minutes.

Tip 3: Read your essay aloud after writing. This helps you catch grammar errors and awkward phrasing. Aim for fluency.

How IELTS Active Helps

At ieltsactive.com, we provide free resources to help you master the "discuss both views" essay. Our practice tests include real exam questions with model answers. You can also download our "Task 2 Structure Guide" for more templates and tips.

FAQ

Q: Can I agree with both views in my opinion? A: Yes, you can agree with both views partially, as long as you explain your reasoning clearly. This often shows higher-level thinking. Q: How many paragraphs should I write? A: Aim for 4 paragraphs: introduction, first view, second view, conclusion. This is the most effective structure. Q: Should I use examples in both body paragraphs? A: Yes, examples strengthen your arguments. Use real-world examples like countries, studies, or historical events. Q: What if I don't have an opinion on the topic? A: You must have an opinion. Choose one side or a middle ground. The examiner expects you to take a stance. Q: Can I use personal stories as examples? A: Avoid personal stories. Use general, objective examples that are relevant to the topic.

Key Takeaways

✅Understand the "discuss both views" format: present both sides and give your opinion.

✅Use a clear 4-paragraph structure for balance and coherence.

✅Plan your essay in 5 minutes to stay organized.

✅Provide specific examples for each view.

✅State your opinion clearly in the conclusion.

✅Practice regularly with real exam questions.

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