¿Qué es un “Discursive or Opinion Essay”?
Es un tipo de redacción formal en la que el autor expresa su opinión sobre un tema, dando argumentos a favor y en contra. Es muy común en los exámenes de inglés como el B2 First (FCE).
En este tipo de texto:
- Se presenta una idea principal o una pregunta.
- Se discuten diferentes puntos de vista (argumentos a favor y en contra).
- Al final, se da una conclusión con una opinión personal.
Importante: Este tipo de redacción no es como un mensaje entre amigos. Tiene que sonar formal, claro y organizado.
Estructura paso a paso
Un buen "Opinion Essay" debe tener cuatro párrafos:
1. Introducción
- Explica de qué trata el tema.
- No des tu opinión todavía.
- Usa frases como:
- "Nowadays, many people believe that..."
- "There is a lot of debate about whether..."
Ejemplo:
Many people argue that public transport should be free for everyone. Others believe it would be too expensive for the government. This essay will discuss both views.
2. Párrafo con argumentos a favor
- Presenta los puntos positivos o las razones por las que algunas personas están a favor.
- Usa conectores como:
- "Firstly, …"
- "In addition, …"
- "Another advantage is that …"
Ejemplo:
Firstly, free public transport would reduce traffic and pollution. In addition, people with low income could move around the city more easily.
3. Párrafo con argumentos en contra
- Presenta los argumentos en contra.
- Usa conectores como:
- "On the other hand, …"
- "However, …"
- "One disadvantage is that …"
Ejemplo:
On the other hand, some people say that it would cost too much money. Governments would have to pay more taxes or reduce spending in other areas.
4. Conclusión
- Da tu opinión clara y directa.
- Usa expresiones como:
- "In my opinion, …"
- "To sum up, …"
- "All things considered, I believe that …"
Ejemplo:
To sum up, free public transport has both advantages and disadvantages. However, in my opinion, it is a good idea because it helps the environment and helps people in need.
Frases útiles
Estas frases te ayudarán a sonar más formal y organizado:
| Para introducir ideas | Para añadir ideas | Para contrastar ideas | Para concluir |
|---|---|---|---|
| It is said that… | Furthermore,… | However,… | In conclusion,… |
| Many people believe… | In addition,… | On the other hand,… | To sum up,… |
| One advantage is… | Another reason is… | Nevertheless,… | All in all,… |
Modelo completo
Aquí tienes un modelo de texto completo:
Topic: All public transport should be free. Do you agree?
Nowadays, there is a lot of discussion about whether public transport should be free. Some people think it is a basic right, while others argue that it is not realistic. This essay will explore both points of view.
Firstly, having free public transport could reduce pollution and traffic jams. If more people use buses and trains instead of cars, cities will be cleaner and safer. Furthermore, people with less money will be able to move around more easily.
On the other hand, public transport is expensive to maintain. Some people believe that if it were free, the government would have to raise taxes or reduce budgets in areas like health or education.
To sum up, although there are reasons to be against it, I believe free public transport would help the environment and benefit many people. It should be seen as an investment in the future.
Actividades prácticas
Actividad 1: Ordena las partes
Coloca las frases en el orden correcto para formar un “Opinion Essay”:
- In my opinion, schools should focus more on creativity than on exams.
- Many people believe that exams are the best way to evaluate students, but others think creativity is more important.
- Firstly, creative activities help students think in different ways and solve problems.
- However, exams are useful to measure knowledge and prepare students for real-life situations.
(Solución sugerida: 2 – 3 – 4 – 1)
Actividad 2: Escribe tu propio ensayo
Escribe entre 140 y 190 palabras sobre este tema:
Topic: “Mobile phones should be banned in schools. Do you agree?”
Sigue esta estructura:
- Introducción (no des tu opinión aún)
- Argumentos a favor
- Argumentos en contra
- Conclusión con tu opinión
A continuación 10 ejemplos
✏️ Actividad tipo examen: B2 Essay - EJEMPLO 1
Instrucciones:
You have had a class discussion about the environment. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the causes of environmental problems and say whether you believe they can be solved or not.
Write about:
-
Transport
-
Rivers and seas
-
(your own idea) Factories
✍️ Write your essay in about 140–190 words.
✅ Modelo de redacción con conectores y expresiones destacadas
Title: Can We Solve Environmental Problems?
Nowadays, environmental problems are affecting every country in the world. In this essay, I will talk about some of the main causes and whether I believe we can solve them.
Firstly, transport is one of the biggest contributors to air pollution. Cars, buses and planes release harmful gases into the atmosphere. In addition, traffic jams in big cities make things even worse. One possible solution is to use public transport or switch to electric vehicles.
Secondly, many rivers and seas are polluted by waste. Factories and individuals throw rubbish and chemicals into the water, which harms animals and ecosystems. For example, plastic in the ocean kills many fish and turtles every year. Governments should create stricter laws to control this.
Finally, factories also cause pollution by burning fossil fuels. However, there are cleaner technologies that companies can use if they receive enough support.
To sum up, environmental damage is a serious issue. In my opinion, if we act quickly and responsibly, we can reduce the damage and protect our planet for the future.
✅ Conectores y expresiones útiles
| Introducción | Argumentos a favor / ideas clave | Conclusión |
|---|---|---|
| Nowadays | Firstly, In addition | To sum up |
| In this essay, I will… | For example, One solution is… | In my opinion |
| Secondly, Finally |
✏️ Actividad tipo examen: B2 Essay - EJEMPLO 2
Instrucciones:
You have had a class discussion about technology and education. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the advantages and disadvantages of using technology in the classroom and say whether you think it improves education or not.
Write about:
-
Access to information
-
Student motivation
-
(your own idea)
✍️ Write your essay in about 140–190 words.
✅ Modelo de redacción con conectores y expresiones destacadas
Title: Does Technology Improve Education?
Nowadays, technology is present in almost every aspect of our lives, including education. In this essay, I will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using technology in the classroom and give my opinion.
On the one hand, one of the biggest benefits is access to information. For example, students can find explanations, videos and exercises online in seconds. In addition, they can learn at their own pace, which can be very helpful.
On the other hand, technology can be a distraction. Some students use their devices to check social media or play games instead of focusing on class. Furthermore, not all teachers are trained to use digital tools effectively, which can make lessons confusing.
Finally, technology can also increase motivation. Interactive activities, quizzes and videos make learning more fun and dynamic. This can encourage students to participate more actively in class.
To sum up, technology has both positive and negative sides. In my opinion, when used correctly, it can make education more effective and interesting for everyone.
✅ Conectores y expresiones útiles
| Introducción | Argumentos a favor / en contra | Conclusión |
|---|---|---|
| Nowadays | On the one hand, For example | To sum up |
| In this essay, I will… | In addition, Furthermore | In my opinion |
| Some students, Finally |
✏️ Actividad tipo examen: B2 Essay - EJEMPLO 3
Instrucciones:
You have had a class discussion about working while studying. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the advantages and disadvantages of having a part-time job during school or university, and give your opinion.
Write about:
-
Time management
-
Money
-
(your own idea)
✍️ Write your essay in about 140–190 words.
✅ Modelo de redacción con conectores y expresiones destacadas
Title: Should Students Have Part-Time Jobs?
Nowadays, many students decide to work while studying. In this essay, I will explain the advantages and disadvantages of having a part-time job during school or university and give my opinion.
On the one hand, a part-time job helps students learn about time management. They must organise their day carefully to balance work and study. In addition, it teaches responsibility and improves their communication skills.
On the other hand, working can be stressful, especially during exam periods. For example, some students feel tired or don't have enough time to do their homework. As a result, their academic performance may suffer.
Another important factor is money. Earning their own money gives students more independence and helps them pay for things like books, transport or entertainment.
To sum up, working while studying can be difficult, but it also has many benefits. In my opinion, if the job is not too demanding, it can be a great opportunity for personal growth.
✅ Conectores y expresiones útiles
| Introducción | Argumentos a favor / en contra | Conclusión |
|---|---|---|
| Nowadays | On the one hand, In addition | To sum up |
| In this essay, I will… | On the other hand, For example | In my opinion |
| As a result, Another important factor |
✏️ Actividad tipo examen: B2 Essay - EJEMPLO 4
Instrucciones:
You have had a class discussion about keeping animals in zoos. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the advantages and disadvantages of zoos and say whether you think they should exist or not.
Write about:
-
Protection
-
Education
-
(your own idea)
✍️ Write your essay in about 140–190 words.
✅ Modelo de redacción con conectores y expresiones destacadas
Title: Should Zoos Still Exist?
Nowadays, zoos can be found in almost every country. In this essay, I will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of keeping animals in zoos and give my opinion.
On the one hand, zoos help with animal protection. They take care of endangered species and try to help them reproduce. In addition, zoos offer a safe environment for animals that could not survive in the wild.
On the other hand, keeping animals in small spaces can be harmful. For example, some animals suffer from stress or boredom because they can’t move freely. Furthermore, not all zoos meet high standards of care and conditions.
Another benefit of zoos is education. Children and adults can learn about wildlife and understand the importance of protecting nature. Seeing animals in real life can be more impactful than just watching a video or reading a book.
To sum up, zoos have both positive and negative aspects. In my opinion, they should continue to exist, but only if they respect animals and focus on conservation and education.
✅ Conectores y expresiones útiles
| Introducción | Argumentos a favor / en contra | Conclusión |
|---|---|---|
| Nowadays | On the one hand, In addition | To sum up |
| In this essay, I will… | On the other hand, For example | In my opinion |
| Furthermore, Another benefit |
✏️ Actividad tipo examen: B2 Essay - EJEMPLO 5
Instrucciones:
You have had a class discussion about using public transport. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the advantages and disadvantages of using buses, trains, or the metro, and say whether you think more people should use them.
Write about:
-
Pollution
-
Cost
-
(your own idea)
✍️ Write your essay in about 140–190 words.
✅ Modelo de redacción con conectores y expresiones destacadas
Title: Should More People Use Public Transport?
Nowadays, many cities are trying to reduce traffic and pollution by promoting public transport. In this essay, I will explain the pros and cons of using public transport and give my opinion.
On the one hand, public transport helps the environment. For example, buses and trains produce less pollution than many cars. In addition, fewer cars on the road means less traffic and cleaner air.
On the other hand, not all public transport is efficient. Sometimes, buses are late or overcrowded. Furthermore, in rural areas, there are often fewer options, making it harder for people to rely on them.
Another important point is the cost. Using public transport is usually cheaper than owning a car. People can save money on petrol, insurance and parking.
To sum up, public transport has clear advantages and some disadvantages. In my opinion, more people should use it, especially in cities, because it’s better for the environment and more affordable.
✅ Conectores y expresiones útiles
| Introducción | Argumentos a favor / en contra | Conclusión |
|---|---|---|
| Nowadays | On the one hand, For example | To sum up |
| In this essay, I will… | In addition, On the other hand | In my opinion |
| Sometimes, Another important point |
✏️ Actividad tipo examen: B2 Essay - EJEMPLO 6
Instrucciones:
You have had a class discussion about exams. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the advantages and disadvantages of school exams and give your opinion.
Write about:
-
Motivation
-
Stress
-
(your own idea)
✍️ Write your essay in about 140–190 words.
✅ Modelo de redacción con conectores y expresiones destacadas
Title: Are Exams the Best Way to Evaluate Students?
Nowadays, exams are the most common method to assess students in schools and universities. In this essay, I will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of exams and share my opinion.
On the one hand, exams can be a source of motivation. For example, students often study harder when they know they have an important test. In addition, exams can show who has worked consistently throughout the term.
On the other hand, exams can cause a lot of stress. Some students get very nervous and don’t perform well under pressure. As a result, their results may not reflect their real knowledge or skills.
Another disadvantage is that exams often focus on memorising facts. They don’t always test creativity, communication or teamwork — skills that are also important in life.
To sum up, exams are useful, but not perfect. In my opinion, they should be combined with other forms of evaluation, like projects or group work, to give a more complete view of a student’s abilities.
✅ Conectores y expresiones útiles
| Introducción | Argumentos a favor / en contra | Conclusión |
|---|---|---|
| Nowadays | On the one hand, For example | To sum up |
| In this essay, I will… | In addition, On the other hand | In my opinion |
| As a result, Another disadvantage |
✏️ Actividad tipo examen: B2 Essay - EJEMPLO 7
Instrucciones:
You have had a class discussion about fast food. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the advantages and disadvantages of eating fast food and give your opinion.
Write about:
-
Health
-
Convenience
-
(your own idea)
✍️ Write your essay in about 140–190 words.
✅ Modelo de redacción con conectores y expresiones destacadas
Title: Is Fast Food a Good Option?
Nowadays, fast food is popular all over the world, especially among young people. In this essay, I will explore the advantages and disadvantages of eating fast food and give my opinion.
On the one hand, fast food is very convenient. You can buy it quickly and eat it anywhere. In addition, it is usually cheap, which makes it accessible to many people. For example, students often choose fast food because they don’t have time to cook.
On the other hand, fast food is often unhealthy. It contains too much fat, sugar and salt. As a result, eating it regularly can lead to health problems like obesity or diabetes.
Another problem is that fast food is often made in large factories, which creates a lot of waste and pollution. This affects the environment negatively.
To sum up, fast food is easy and cheap, but also unhealthy. In my opinion, it’s okay to eat it occasionally, but people should try to cook healthy meals at home whenever possible.
✅ Conectores y expresiones útiles
| Introducción | Argumentos a favor / en contra | Conclusión |
|---|---|---|
| Nowadays | On the one hand, In addition | To sum up |
| In this essay, I will… | For example, On the other hand | In my opinion |
| As a result, Another problem |
✏️ Actividad tipo examen: B2 Essay - EJEMPLO 8
Instrucciones:
You have had a class discussion about learning languages. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the advantages and disadvantages of learning a foreign language and say whether you think it is necessary in today’s world.
Write about:
-
Travel
-
Jobs
-
(your own idea)
✍️ Write your essay in about 140–190 words.
✅ Modelo de redacción con conectores y expresiones destacadas
Title: Is Learning a Foreign Language Necessary?
Nowadays, many people study foreign languages at school, online or even abroad. In this essay, I will explain the advantages and disadvantages of learning a foreign language and give my opinion.
On the one hand, speaking another language is useful for travelling. For example, it helps you communicate with locals, ask for directions and understand signs. In addition, it allows you to learn more about other cultures.
On the other hand, learning a language takes time and effort. Some people find it difficult and give up quickly. Furthermore, not everyone has access to good teachers or courses, especially in small towns or villages.
Another important reason to learn a language is work. Knowing a foreign language can improve your chances of getting a better job, especially in international companies.
To sum up, learning a foreign language is not always easy, but it has many benefits. In my opinion, it is very important nowadays because it opens the door to opportunities around the world.
✅ Conectores y expresiones útiles
| Introducción | Argumentos a favor / en contra | Conclusión |
|---|---|---|
| Nowadays | On the one hand, For example | To sum up |
| In this essay, I will… | In addition, On the other hand | In my opinion |
| Some people, Another important reason |
✏️ Actividad tipo examen: B2 Essay - EJEMPLO 9
Instrucciones:
You have had a class discussion about using social media. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the advantages and disadvantages of social media and give your opinion.
Write about:
-
Communication
-
Privacy
-
(your own idea)
✍️ Write your essay in about 140–190 words.
✅ Modelo de redacción con conectores y expresiones destacadas
Title: Is Social Media Good or Bad?
Nowadays, social media is a big part of daily life, especially for young people. In this essay, I will discuss its advantages and disadvantages and give my personal opinion.
On the one hand, social media is great for communication. For example, you can stay in touch with friends and family who live far away. In addition, it helps people share ideas, news and experiences instantly.
On the other hand, there are serious problems with privacy. Many users share personal information without thinking, and this can be dangerous. Furthermore, social media can be addictive and lead to problems like anxiety or low self-esteem.
Another issue is the spread of misinformation. Fake news and rumours can spread very fast and influence people negatively.
To sum up, social media has both benefits and risks. In my opinion, it can be very useful if used carefully and responsibly.
✅ Conectores y expresiones útiles
| Introducción | Argumentos a favor / en contra | Conclusión |
|---|---|---|
| Nowadays | On the one hand, For example | To sum up |
| In this essay, I will… | In addition, On the other hand | In my opinion |
| Furthermore, Another issue |
✏️ Actividad tipo examen: B2 Essay
Instrucciones:
You have had a class discussion about tourism. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the advantages and disadvantages of tourism and say whether it is good or bad for local communities.
Write about:
-
Money
-
Culture
-
(your own idea)
✍️ Write your essay in about 140–190 words.
✅ Modelo de redacción con conectores y expresiones destacadas
Title: Is Tourism Good for Local Communities?
Nowadays, tourism is one of the most important industries in many countries. In this essay, I will examine the positive and negative effects of tourism on local communities and give my opinion.
On the one hand, tourism brings a lot of money. For example, tourists spend on hotels, restaurants, museums and shops. In addition, it creates jobs for local people and helps develop the economy.
On the other hand, tourism can damage local culture. Traditional customs may disappear, and some places become too commercial. Furthermore, the cost of living can increase for local residents due to tourist demand.
Another problem is pollution. Popular tourist destinations often suffer from too much traffic, waste and noise.
To sum up, tourism can have both positive and negative consequences. In my opinion, it is good for local communities if it is managed in a sustainable and respectful way.
✅ Conectores y expresiones útiles
| Introducción | Argumentos a favor / en contra | Conclusión |
|---|---|---|
| Nowadays | On the one hand, For example | To sum up |
| In this essay, I will… | In addition, On the other hand | In my opinion |
| Furthermore, Another problem |
✏️ Actividad tipo examen: B2 Essay - EJEMPLO 10
Instrucciones:
You have had a class discussion about tourism. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the advantages and disadvantages of tourism and say whether it is good or bad for local communities.
Write about:
-
Money
-
Culture
-
(your own idea)
✍️ Write your essay in about 140–190 words.
✅ Modelo de redacción con conectores y expresiones destacadas
Title: Is Tourism Good for Local Communities?
Nowadays, tourism is one of the most important industries in many countries. In this essay, I will examine the positive and negative effects of tourism on local communities and give my opinion.
On the one hand, tourism brings a lot of money. For example, tourists spend on hotels, restaurants, museums and shops. In addition, it creates jobs for local people and helps develop the economy.
On the other hand, tourism can damage local culture. Traditional customs may disappear, and some places become too commercial. Furthermore, the cost of living can increase for local residents due to tourist demand.
Another problem is pollution. Popular tourist destinations often suffer from too much traffic, waste and noise.
To sum up, tourism can have both positive and negative consequences. In my opinion, it is good for local communities if it is managed in a sustainable and respectful way.
✅ Conectores y expresiones útiles
| Introducción | Argumentos a favor / en contra | Conclusión |
|---|---|---|
| Nowadays | On the one hand, For example | To sum up |
| In this essay, I will… | In addition, On the other hand | In my opinion |
| Furthermore, Another problem |
✏️ Actividad tipo examen: B2 Essay - EJEMPLO
Instrucciones:
You have had a class discussion about eating meat. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the advantages and disadvantages of eating less meat and give your opinion.
Write about:
-
Health
-
Environment
-
(your own idea)
✍️ Write your essay in about 140–190 words.
✅ Modelo de redacción con conectores y expresiones destacadas
Title: Should People Eat Less Meat?
Nowadays, many people are trying to reduce the amount of meat they eat. In this essay, I will look at the pros and cons of this decision and share my opinion.
On the one hand, eating less meat can improve our health. For example, a diet with more vegetables and less red meat can reduce the risk of heart disease. In addition, it often helps people feel more energetic and stay at a healthy weight.
On the other hand, some people think that meat is an important source of protein. Furthermore, changing eating habits can be difficult and expensive, especially if healthy alternatives are not available.
Another key reason to eat less meat is the environment. Producing meat uses a lot of land, water and energy, and it causes pollution and deforestation.
To sum up, eating less meat can be good for both people and the planet. In my opinion, we don’t need to stop eating meat completely, but we should definitely reduce our consumption.
✅ Conectores y expresiones útiles
| Introducción | Argumentos a favor / en contra | Conclusión |
|---|---|---|
| Nowadays | On the one hand, For example | To sum up |
| In this essay, I will… | In addition, On the other hand | In my opinion |
| Furthermore, Another key reason |