IELTS 'Discuss Both Views' Essay: How to Write It (Band 8 Sample)

"Discuss both views and give your own opinion" is one of the most frequent Task 2 instructions. It contains three tasks: explain view A, explain view B, and give your opinion. Many candidates forget the third, which limits their Task Response score.

Where should your opinion go?

You have two good options:

Opinion in the introduction and conclusion (recommended): the examiner knows your position from the start.
Neutral introduction, opinion in the conclusion: acceptable, but the opinion must be clear and developed.

You may agree with one side, or take a balanced view, as long as it is clear.

Structure

Paragraph	Content
Introduction	Both views in one sentence, plus your opinion
Body 1	The view you agree with less: reasons and example
Body 2	The view you support: reasons, example and why it convinces you
Conclusion	Summary plus a clear opinion

The question

Some people believe that children should be given household chores from a young age, while others think children should spend that time studying or playing. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Band 8 sample answer

Parents disagree about whether young children should help with housework or use their free time for schoolwork and play. While I understand the arguments for protecting children's time, I believe that regular, age-appropriate chores are valuable.

Those who oppose giving children chores argue that childhood is short and should be devoted to learning and enjoyment. Academic competition begins early in many countries, and homework already takes up a large part of the evening. Play, meanwhile, is not a waste of time: it develops creativity, social skills and physical health. From this perspective, asking a seven-year-old to wash dishes simply takes time away from more important activities.

However, I would argue that household tasks teach lessons that neither school nor play can provide. A child who is responsible for feeding a pet or setting the table learns that their actions affect others, and gradually develops independence and self-discipline. These habits also prepare young people for adult life: teenagers who have never cooked or done laundry often struggle when they leave home. Importantly, chores do not need to be time-consuming. Fifteen minutes a day is enough, leaving plenty of time for study and play.

In conclusion, although the desire to give children time for learning and play is understandable, I believe that small daily chores are an essential part of growing up, as they build responsibility and practical skills that last a lifetime.

(266 words)

Language for presenting views

Introducing view A: Some people argue that…, Those who support… claim that…, From this perspective…
Moving to view B: However, I would argue that…, On the other hand, others believe…, Nevertheless…
Opinion: I firmly believe…, In my view…, I am convinced that…

Developing each view properly

A common weakness is giving the opposing view a single weak sentence. Examiners expect both views to be explained fairly, even the one you disagree with. A useful test: someone who holds view A should read your first body paragraph and think "Yes, that's my argument."

Each body paragraph needs:

a topic sentence stating the view;
one or two reasons;
a specific example or consequence;
in the paragraph you support, a sentence explaining why it convinces you more.

Practice question

Some people think that governments should invest in public libraries, while others believe libraries are no longer necessary in the digital age. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Common mistakes

Only presenting one view, or giving one view a single sentence.
No opinion, or an unclear one ("both views have merits" alone is not an opinion).
Using "I think" repeatedly. Vary it.