In free composition, you can consistently earn high scores by following a fixed argumentative structure rather than simply listing whatever comes to mind. Begin with the principle that one paragraph should contain one claim.
Basic Rules
Basic structure of an argument (one paragraph):
① Topic Sentence: State in one sentence what you want to say in the paragraph (claim)
② Reason: Explain why you think so (reason or grounds)
③ Example: Give a specific example supporting the reason
④ (Mini) Conclusion: Restate the paragraph's claim in different words (optional)
Overall structure of an agree-or-disagree essay (basically four paragraphs):
1. Introduction: Clearly state your position
2. Body 1: Reason 1 + example
3. Body 2: Reason 2 + example (or concession → counterargument)
4. Conclusion: Restate the claim
Topic Sentence: I believe that students should be allowed to use smartphones during class for educational purposes.
Reason: This is because smartphones give students instant access to information that textbooks cannot provide.
Example: For instance, when a student encounters an unfamiliar word or concept, a quick search can clarify it within seconds, keeping the lesson moving smoothly.
Mini Conclusion: In this way, smartphones can support learning rather than distract from it.
Points to Note
① A claim that is too abstract makes it difficult to write reasons. Narrow it to a claim that clearly allows agreement or disagreement, such as “Students should be allowed to use smartphones for educational purposes during class,” rather than “Smartphones are useful.”
② Explore “why” one level deeper: do not stop at “because it is convenient”; explain why it is convenient, such as “because students can access information immediately.”
③ Choose only examples that support the reason. An unrelated example may lose points for lack of logical consistency.
④ At the end of the paragraph, always return to the position that the original claim is therefore correct (mini conclusion). This prevents the focus from shifting while you write.
- One paragraph = one claim. Write in the order claim → reason → example → mini conclusion
- An agree-or-disagree essay basically has four paragraphs (introduction, reason 1, reason 2/concession, conclusion)
- Explore “why” one level more deeply
- Choose only examples that support the reason
Practice
- Write a one-sentence Topic Sentence for the claim “School uniforms should be abolished.”
- Write one reason for the claim above, exploring “why” one level deeper.
- Think of one specific example supporting that reason and write it in English.