subject.
8
Moreover, Mulya’s is also different as she states that the last paragraph can be
used to give readers suggestion from the writers’ view.
9
4. Language Features of Discussion Text
Accrording to Sudarwati and Grace, below are the features in a discussion text:
10
a. We may use general nouns to discuss, such as, smoking, abortion, etc.;
b. Thinking verbs may also help us show our emotion, such as, think, believe,
hope, etc. For example: ‘I believe that….’;
c. To make a good transition, me may use some connectives, such as in addition,
furthermore, although, however, on contrary, because, because of, etc. For example:
‘However, there are also disadvantages such as the cost.’; d.
Using modalities, such as, must, should, etc., can also strengthen our points For example: ‘For all those reasons, we must do some action.’
5. Points to Note in Writing Discussion Text
In writing discussion text, we have to consider these following considerations:
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a. When deciding what the title is, we can use a question to be the title of the essay;
b. Before going further to the discussion, we should lead readers to the discussion,
for example, by providing the background of the issue; c.
When providing arguments, we should support them with reasons and evidence;
d.
We are not supposed to see the arguments only on one side;
e.
By using modal verbs, we can make our reason stronger;
f.
If we would like to favour one side in this discussion, reasons should also be provided;
g.
Or if we would like to be fair, ensure that we are fair enough to both sides.
8
Anderson and Anderson, op. cit., p. 20.
9
Mulya, loc. cit.
10
Sudarwati and Grace, loc. cit.
11
Progression in
Discussion Texts,
https:www.babcock- education.co.ukldpdo_download.asp?did=303763
, retrieved on March 2015.
Below is the example of discussion text about the pros and cons:
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Mobile Phones: Good or Bad?
Everywhere you go nowadays, you see people using mobile phones. From school children to retired
people, you see them talking in the supermarket, on trains, in the street, everywhere So what are the
advantages of mobile phones? First of all, they are very convenient because
you can phone from nearly anywhere. Another advantage is that they are really useful in emergency
situations. For example, if you are alone in your car and it breaks down, you can get help quickly. In
addition, you can also use your mobile to text your friends or connect to the Net.
However, there are also disadvantages such as the cost. Mobile phone calls cost more than normal
calls. Furthermore, it can be annoying if you are on a train or a b
us and you have to listen to someone else’s boring conversation. Finally, people can contact you
anywhere, at any time, unless you switch your phone off
In conclusion, there are both advantages and disadvantages. Personally, I feel mobile phones are a
good thing because they give us more freedom and make communication easier.
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Achmad Doddy, Ahmad Sugeng, and Effendi, Developing English Competencies for Senior High School SMAMA, Jakarta: Pusat Perbukuan, Departemen Pendidikan Nasional,
2008, p. 74. Write the
subject of the essay
discussion
First, write a general
introduction to the subject
of the discussion.
In the second and third
paragraphs, introduce and
present the advantage and
disadvantage. Try to give
examples. Use linking
words like First of all to
present the advantage
disadvantage
Use words like
However to introduce a
contrast and In
conclusion to introduce
the summary.
B. Teacher Indirect Feedback
