Discursive Writing
What do I need to know about ... Discursive Writing?
What's the point?
Discursive wirting discusses the situation at hand. It presents an argument in a more balanced way than argumentative and persuasive writing and can appreciate the arguments both for and against a given position. Discursive writing does not argue for or against a point throughout the essay. After having assessed and evaluated all arguments, the writer generally states his/her opinion at the end.
What are the conventions?
Examples of conventions that could be used in a discursive essays are listed below. However, you have to be careful when using them that you do not become to strongly persuasive:
• Balanced and calm tone of voice • A structure that alternates between the two opposiing positions exploring each one • A balanced consideration of the evidence for each point and an analysis of the strengths and flaws of that evidence • Techincal and formal language where appropriate • Reference to other sources of expertise / quotations from famous thinkers • Connectives to link paragraphs together by pointing out similarites (Equally, Similarly, etc) or differences (On the other hand, However, etc) • Some persuasive techniques: hyperbole, repetition, oxymoron, triads, emotive language, imagery, similes, metaphors, rhetorical questions (although be careful when using all of these that you do not become too strongly persuasive
Structure
Introdution: This states clearly the problem of the investigation and why it is a significant issue.
Main Body: Consider the various sides of the position in turn, alternative between them. Assess each one and compare their relative strengths - do not include your own opinion at this point. For each point, use a new paragraph. Begin each paragraph with a key sentence which links back to the question.
Conclusion: Summing up the your key points and state your position again and what has made it difficult to come to
What's the point?
Discursive wirting discusses the situation at hand. It presents an argument in a more balanced way than argumentative and persuasive writing and can appreciate the arguments both for and against a given position. Discursive writing does not argue for or against a point throughout the essay. After having assessed and evaluated all arguments, the writer generally states his/her opinion at the end.
What are the conventions?
Examples of conventions that could be used in a discursive essays are listed below. However, you have to be careful when using them that you do not become to strongly persuasive:
• Balanced and calm tone of voice • A structure that alternates between the two opposiing positions exploring each one • A balanced consideration of the evidence for each point and an analysis of the strengths and flaws of that evidence • Techincal and formal language where appropriate • Reference to other sources of expertise / quotations from famous thinkers • Connectives to link paragraphs together by pointing out similarites (Equally, Similarly, etc) or differences (On the other hand, However, etc) • Some persuasive techniques: hyperbole, repetition, oxymoron, triads, emotive language, imagery, similes, metaphors, rhetorical questions (although be careful when using all of these that you do not become too strongly persuasive
Structure
Introdution: This states clearly the problem of the investigation and why it is a significant issue.
Main Body: Consider the various sides of the position in turn, alternative between them. Assess each one and compare their relative strengths - do not include your own opinion at this point. For each point, use a new paragraph. Begin each paragraph with a key sentence which links back to the question.
Conclusion: Summing up the your key points and state your position again and what has made it difficult to come to