Dạng Discussion Essay yêu cầu thí sinh trình bày cả hai mặt của một vấn đề tranh luận, sau đó đưa ra quan điểm cá nhân. Đây là dạng bài rất phổ biến trong VSTEP Task 2.
1. Nhận diện đề bài
Các cụm từ đặc trưng:
- "Discuss both views and give your own opinion."
- "Some people think... while others believe... Discuss both sides."
- "To what extent do you agree or disagree?"
- "What is your opinion on this debate?"
2. Cấu trúc bài viết (4 đoạn)
| Đoạn | Nội dung | Số câu |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction | Paraphrase đề + giới thiệu 2 quan điểm + thesis statement | 3-4 câu |
| Body 1: View A | Trình bày quan điểm thứ nhất + 2-3 lý do + ví dụ | 4-6 câu |
| Body 2: View B | Trình bày quan điểm đối lập + 2-3 lý do + ví dụ | 4-6 câu |
| Conclusion | Tóm tắt + nêu rõ quan điểm cá nhân | 2-3 câu |
3. Template câu mở đầu từng đoạn
Introduction
- "The question of whether [vấn đề] has sparked considerable debate."
- "While some people argue that..., others contend that..."
- "This essay will discuss both perspectives before presenting my own view."
Body 1 — View A (quan điểm ủng hộ)
- "On the one hand, proponents of [View A] argue that..."
- "They believe this because..."
- "For example, / For instance, / A case in point is..."
Body 2 — View B (quan điểm phản đối)
- "On the other hand, those who support [View B] maintain that..."
- "Their main argument is that..."
- "This is evidenced by the fact that..."
Conclusion
- "In conclusion, both sides present valid arguments."
- "However, I personally believe that... because..."
- "Ultimately, a balanced approach that considers both perspectives is most beneficial."
4. Bài mẫu: Nên cấm điện thoại trong trường học?
Đề bài: "Some people think that mobile phones should be banned in schools, while others believe they are useful learning tools. Discuss both views and give your opinion."
Bài mẫu (~250 từ)
The use of mobile phones in schools has become a contentious issue among educators and parents. While some advocate for a complete ban, others see smartphones as valuable educational resources. This essay will examine both perspectives.
On the one hand, supporters of banning phones argue that these devices are major distractions in classrooms. Students frequently check social media, play games, or text during lessons, significantly reducing their concentration and academic performance. Moreover, phones facilitate cheating during examinations, undermining academic integrity. Cyberbullying through messaging apps is another concern that disrupts the learning environment and harms students' well-being.
On the other hand, opponents of the ban highlight the educational potential of smartphones. Students can access vast online resources, educational applications, and digital textbooks that enhance their learning experience. Phones also enable interactive learning through quizzes, polls, and collaborative projects. Furthermore, in emergency situations, having a phone allows students to contact parents or authorities immediately, providing an important safety measure.
In conclusion, both sides present compelling arguments. However, I believe that rather than imposing an outright ban, schools should establish clear usage policies that permit phones for educational purposes while restricting recreational use during class time. This balanced approach maximizes the educational benefits of technology while minimizing its potential for distraction.
5. Mẹo đạt điểm cao dạng Discussion
- Cân bằng: Dành số câu tương đương cho mỗi quan điểm
- Khách quan: Trình bày cả hai mặt trước khi nêu ý kiến riêng
- Rõ ràng: Kết luận PHẢI nêu rõ bạn đứng về phía nào
- Linking: Dùng "On the one hand... On the other hand..." để tạo sự đối lập rõ