IELTS Discussion Essays

📘 What You’ll Learn on This Page

This page explains the two types of IELTS Discussion Essays, shows you the correct structure for each one, and includes Band 8 model answers. You’ll also see how to use sentence stems to stay clear and focused throughout your writing.

🧠 IELTS Discussion Essays

❓ What is a Discussion Essay?

If you’re asked to write about two different opinions, you’re dealing with a Discussion Essay — and it’s easier than it sounds once you know the format.

This is a common IELTS Task 2 essay type. You’ll be asked to discuss two different views on a topic and explain your opinion. There are two main formats:

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion
Which do you agree with?

Both formats require you to take a clear stance and support it with strong reasoning. However, the structure you use will depend on which version appears in the task.

🛠️ Follow This Proven Structure

These structures are designed to help you stay in control and write clearly. Stick to the order, and you won’t waste time wondering what to write next.

Variant 1: “Discuss both these views and give your own opinion”

🧱 Introduction

Paraphrase the prompt.
Give your opinion clearly.
State your supporting reason. (Keep this brief — it’s just a preview.)

✍️ Body Paragraph 1 – Side You Agree With

On the one hand, some people think that [side you agree with], and I agree.
So why do I feel this way? → Explain in detail → Give example. (Use a realistic situation — don’t invent a statistic.)

🔍 Body Paragraph 2 – Other Side

On the other hand, it is often believed that [other view].
Explain their logic → Extend → Give neutral example. (Your tone should stay respectful here, even if you disagree.)

🧩 Conclusion

Restate your opinion.
Summarise both sides.
Confirm why your side is stronger. (One sentence is enough.)

Variant 2: “Which Do You Agree With?”

🧱 Introduction

Paraphrase the question.
Clearly state which side you agree with.
Preview your two supporting reasons. (No need to explain them yet.)

✍️ Body Paragraph 1

So why do I feel this way? → Explain the first reason → Extend → Example.

✍️ Body Paragraph 2

Another reason I believe this is… → Extend → Reinforce with supporting detail → Example.

🧩 Conclusion

Restate your opinion.
Summarise both reasons.
Do not introduce any new arguments.

🧾 Model Essay (Variant 1: Discuss both these views)

Task Question
Although it is sometimes believed that low-cost airlines have made international travel more affordable and beneficial, others argue that they create serious problems for local communities.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Essay

Although it is sometimes believed that low-cost airlines have made international travel more affordable and beneficial, others argue that they create serious problems for local communities. In my opinion, I believe that this development is positive as it provides employment opportunities and improves infrastructure.

On the one hand, some people think that tourism offers clear benefits to host communities, and I agree. So why do I feel this way? When tourists visit a location, they spend money in shops, hotels, and restaurants, which creates demand for goods and services. This, in turn, results in job creation for local people. In addition, governments often invest in roads, public transport, and healthcare to support tourism, and these improvements benefit local residents. A good example of this is in some coastal areas, where roads have been improved and more schools have been built to cater to increased tourism, which has also helped the local population. In the long term, these changes contribute to more stable and developed communities.

On the other hand, it is often believed that tourism can harm communities. Many argue that when an area becomes too reliant on foreign visitors, it loses its long-term residents. This is because house prices often rise, and accommodation is converted into holiday homes or rental properties, leaving local families with fewer affordable options. In some cases, tourism may also place pressure on public services, such as transport and waste disposal, which can lead to overcrowding and a drop in quality of life for those who live there permanently. These are valid concerns, especially in locations that lack planning regulations or rely heavily on tourism income during certain seasons.

In conclusion, while people may vary in their opinions, I believe that tourism can benefit local communities through increased job creation and better infrastructure. Despite some drawbacks, the long-term gains for employment and local development make it a positive trend.

🧾 Model Essay (Variant 2: Which do you agree with?)

Task Question
Although it is sometimes believed that low-cost airlines have made international travel more affordable and beneficial, others argue that they create serious problems for local communities.
Which view do you agree with?

Essay

Although it is sometimes believed that low-cost airlines have made international travel more affordable and beneficial, others argue that they create serious problems for local communities. In my view, this development is positive as it supports the global economy and creates jobs in tourism-dependent regions.

So why do I feel this way? When tourists visit a destination, they spend money on hotels, food, transport, and entertainment. This creates jobs for local people, supports small businesses, and increases government revenue through taxes. In many regions, particularly coastal or rural areas, tourism is the main source of income, and without it, unemployment would be much higher. A good example of this can be seen in places like Bali or the Greek islands, where international visitors play a central role in the local economy. Without budget flights, these areas would be cut off from major travel routes, which would cause serious economic hardship for communities that rely on tourism.

Another reason I believe this is a positive development is that air travel plays an essential role in global development. It connects remote communities to international markets, supports cultural exchange, and allows for the movement of goods, services, and people. For instance, many countries rely on air traffic not just for tourism, but for business and trade. Preventing this movement would harm the global economy and reduce opportunities for cooperation between nations.

In conclusion, I believe that the growth of international travel through budget airlines is a positive development, as it supports jobs, economies, and international connection.

🧠 Ready to Practise?

Got it? Let’s see how you do with a real IELTS prompt. Choose the right structure for each question, follow it carefully, and use the sentence stems to stay focused.

💬 Prompt (Variant 1)

Some people believe schools should teach only academic subjects. Others think life skills are more important.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

💬 Prompt (Variant 2)

Some believe that young people should be required to do unpaid work. Others think this is unfair.
Which view do you agree with?