Meaning of discussion text

A discussion text is a kind of text which presents a problematic course.

It is usually both sides Of an issue and come to a recommendation
which is a logical conclusion based on the evidence/data given in the
text. It is importan for us to look at both sides of an argument,
weighing the positives and negatives objectively before we makr a
rational decision. Therefore, reading discussion texts will help us make
decision.
Social Function

A discussion text presents differing opinions, viewpoints or perspectives on an

issue, enabling the readers to explore different idea before making an informed
decision. Therefore, the social functions or purposes of discussion texts are:
•To present arguments and information from differing points of view.
•To present at least two points of views about an issue or controversial topic.
Discussion text can be found in talkback radio when people with varying
perspectives comment; interviews when speakers with different points of view are
questioned; letters to the editor when people respond in different ways to an issue;
and in newspaper articles. The common examples of discussion text are
newspapers editorial, non-fiction book on an issue write-up of a debate, formal
essay, and leaflet or article purposing to give balanced account ct an issue.
General Structure
In discussion text, the writer normally explores different opinions and
ends with a personal opinion or comment. Here is the general structure
of discussion texts.
a. Issue
It contains an opening statement presenting the issue which is going to
be discussed. The issue must drive problematic discussion. A discussion
begins with a brief introduction. It has statement or question and
serves the purpose of introducing the reader or listener to the writer's
point of view or thesis. Often it is recognized that there are two points
of view.
b. Arguments for and Against, and Supporting Evidence
• Argument "for" (Pro)
It provides arguments to support the pro opinion. It is completed with
supporting evidence/ examples/elaboratiom
• Argument "against" (Con)
It states the arguments which disagree to the stated issue. It is also
supported by evidence/ examples/elaboration.
There are two ways to present arguments.
Way 1
A first argument "for" + supporting evidence or additional details elaborating each point.
A second argument "for" supporting details.
A first argument "against" + supporting elaboration. A second argument "against" + supporting
details.
way 2
A topic sentence introduces a point, then arguments are written "for" and "against" the issue. This
should be based on researching, surveying or interviewing people.
A second topic sentence introduces a second point, and this is followed by arguments "for" and
"against".
A third topic sentence introduces a second point and this is followed by arguments "for" and
"against".
Remember, each paragraph should be clearly structured with a topic sentence supported by details.
c. Conclusion or Recommendation
It states the writer's conclusion, summary, comment, or
recommendation for the discussed issue on how people should
concern with it. The discussion ends by presenting a personal point of
view before concluding. The conclusion or recommendation sometimes
sums up both sides of the argument if they are fairly balanced, or can
recommend one argument over the other if the evidence is great.
The following are language features of discussion text.
1. Use of simple present tense.
2. Use of modal, for example: must, should, could, and may.
3. Use of additive, contrastive, and causal conjunction, such as in addition, similarly, on the other hand, however, therefore, etc.
The following are words used to introduce another point of view:
Although, however, in contrast, even though, on the other hand, in spite of, a different point of view, yet another point of view.
Pay attention to . . Evidence supports this.; Please take note . . . ., etc
4. Use of comment adverbs to express opinion, such as personally, obviously, clearly, etc.
5. Use of saying verbs to quote, relating verbs (e.g., is), thinking verbs expressing a personal point of view.
6. Generally use third person.
7. Use a statement about a matter. The following are expressions used to state a matter or issue in the first paragraph.
There are two sides to .
There are different points of view of .