Discussion Text Definition and The Text Example

DISCUSSION TEXT

A discussion is a place of writing that explores both sides of an issue. In discussion text the writer tries to present the pros and cons or advantages of an issue to allow the readers to reach a logical conclusion. The writer should always try to give an impersonal and balanced view.

Text organization

Issue : this part introduces the topic and previews the arguments that the rest of paragraphs expand upon.

Arguments for : arguments for is positive argument or agreement with the issue.

Arguments againts : arguments againts is negative or in disagreement with the issue.

Conclusion or recommendation : the closing is a brief summming up of the issue explored or the writer’s own opinion

Communicative purpose

To present argument from different points of view

To present opinions from different points of view

To present information from different points of view

Language features

Relating verbs

Thinking verbs

General nouns

Abstract nouns

Conjunction

Modality

Adverb of manner

Types of discussion text

Newspaper editorial

Debates

Journals

Thesis

Example

Nowadays, the police have been applying the new regulation concerning the use of seat belts. In European countries, this regulation has been applied for a long time. However, this new regulation has become controversial and is an interesting topic to discuss. Here are some of the arguments.

The use of seat belts has been proven to reduce the risk of injury or death in an accident. Seat belts have become  a standard component in cars.

The research shows that most car accidents will cause an injury to the head. Frequently, drivers or the passangers driving without seat belts die because of this. By wearing  seat belts, the injury will not happen since the seat belts restrain our body on the car seat when an accident happens.

Unfortunately, many cars, especially the old ones, don’t have seat belts. This is because the traffic conditions in the past were unlike the recent traffic conditions. The designer of old cars didn’t consider a seat belt as an important part. Besides, the drivers wearing the seat belts will think that they are completely safe, so they may drive carelessly. They are safe, indeed, but how about the safety of others?

The seat belt is only one of the ways to reduce the risks of car accidents. It doesn’t mean that we are completely safe. In short, our safety depends on ourselves.

Text course: Kiat sukses UN 2007