A discursive essay, often called a "for and against" essay, is a popular form of writing that allows you to examine a topic from multiple perspectives. In this type of essay, you present arguments both in favour of and against a particular thesis, aiding in a balanced evaluation of the issue. The ability to write such an essay is especially important in exams, where critical thinking and an objective approach to a topic are assessed.

What is a discursive essay and why is it worth learning?

A discursive essay is a text that analyses a topic from two sides: positive (for) and negative (against). The writer does not take a clear side but presents both perspectives and then makes their own evaluation in the conclusion. To understand how to write a discursive essay well, it’s important to present arguments evenly on both sides and maintain a logical structure in your writing.

This type of essay not only teaches you to analyse a topic but also helps develop the skill of weighing arguments, which can be useful in many life and work situations. Especially in exams, a discursive essay is a challenge that demonstrates how well you can handle topics requiring complex evaluation.

Basic principles of writing a discursive essay

To understand how to write a discursive essay, it’s helpful to start by learning its basic structure. Every discursive essay consists of three main parts: an introduction, a development (where the "for" and "against" arguments are presented), and a conclusion. It is crucial to maintain a balance between both sides of the debate and logically lead your arguments.

How to write a good introduction to a discursive essay?

The introduction is a key part that introduces the reader to the essay topic. It should include:

• A brief introduction to the topic, explaining why it is important.
• A clearly stated thesis or question that will define the subject of the entire essay.

For example, if the essay topic is: "Do social media have a positive impact on teenagers?", the introduction should contain a brief explanation of the growing role of social media, followed by the question that the essay will analyse from both sides.

Example of an introduction:

"Nowadays, social media have become an integral part of teenagers' lives, affecting their communication, well-being, and relationships. However, do their presence bring more benefits, or could it harm young people? In this essay, we will examine both the positive and negative aspects of social media in teenagers' lives."

How to develop arguments in a discursive essay?

The development is where the "for" and "against" arguments are presented. It is important to:

• Allocate separate paragraphs for "for" and "against" arguments.
• Support each argument with appropriate examples and justification.
• Start with one set of arguments (e.g., first "for", then "against" or vice versa).

Example of developing arguments:

1. Arguments "for": Social media make it easier for teenagers to connect, develop communication skills, and foster a sense of belonging to a group. Thanks to them, young people can share information, gain knowledge, and develop interests.
2. Arguments "against": On the other hand, social media can lead to addiction, cause a sense of isolation, and negatively affect teenagers' mental health. Studies show that excessive use of these platforms is associated with lowered self-esteem and increased social anxiety.

How to write a strong conclusion for a discursive essay?

The conclusion is the part where you should summarise the entire argumentation and present your own stance. In a "for and against" essay, you should:

• Briefly remind the main arguments "for" and "against".
• Express your own opinion or provide a general conclusion on the discussed issue.

Example of a conclusion:

"In summary, social media have both positive and negative effects on teenagers. While they facilitate communication and the development of interests, excessive use can lead to mental health issues. Ultimately, the key is moderation and responsible use of these tools to benefit from them without risking health."

Do Social Media Have a Positive Impact on Youth?

Introduction

Today's youth engage with social media almost daily. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook have become integral to young people's lives, influencing how they communicate, develop interests, and build relationships. However, the question arises: do social media bring more benefits to young people, or do they pose more risks? In this discursive essay, I will present both the positive and negative aspects of social media use by young people.

Discussion

The first argument supporting the positive impact of social media on youth is the quick access to information and education they provide. Young people can swiftly find the educational materials they need, learn about the latest scientific developments, or gain insights from experts. The internet and social media also enable the exchange of experiences and participation in online courses and training, enhancing their knowledge and skills.

Another significant point is that social media facilitate the creation and maintenance of interpersonal relationships. Today's youth often keep in touch with peers through online platforms, allowing them to build networks and develop social skills. Particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, social media proved invaluable in maintaining connections with family and friends.

On the other hand, social media can also have a negative impact on youth. One of the biggest risks is addiction to these platforms. Young people are spending increasing amounts of time on them, often at the expense of other activities such as studying, sports, or direct human interaction. This addiction can lead to concentration issues, poorer academic performance, and a decline in quality of life.

Another argument against social media is their potential negative impact on the mental health of young people. Research shows that excessive use of social media can lead to lowered self-esteem, feelings of isolation, and increased social anxiety. Young people compare their lives to the idealised images they see online, which can lead to frustration and dissatisfaction with their achievements.

Conclusion

In conclusion, social media have both positive and negative aspects regarding their impact on youth. On one hand, they serve as excellent tools for gaining knowledge and maintaining relationships; on the other, they can lead to addiction and mental health issues. Ultimately, whether social media bring benefits to young people depends on how responsibly and consciously they use them.