FOR AND AGAINST COMPOSITON (INTERMEDIATE)

Write a for and against essay (or an advantages and disadvantages essay / pros and cons essay ) of:

1. STUDYING ONLINE
2. WORKING AT HOME
3. SHARING A FLAT
4. LIVING IN A RENTED FLAT
5. ONLINE FRIENDSHIP
6. GOOD AND BAD SIDES OF THE WEEKEND

Choose only ONE topic. Write between 175-200 words.

HELPFUL LANGUAGE

Providing Additional Arguments

What is more, ...
In addition ...
Not only ..., but also ...
Another point is ...
Another thing is that ...
On top of that...
As well as ....

Showing Contrast

However,
On the other hand,
Although ....., 
Unfortunately,
Whereas...
Of course, but at the same time...

Ordering

First of all,
Then,
Next,
Finally,...

Firstly, ...
Secondly, ...
Moreover, ...
Futhermore, ...

Summarizing

To sum up, ...
In conclusion, ...
In summary, ...
All things considered, ...
On balance, ...
In short, 

Expressing Your Opinion

In my opinion,...
I feel / think that ...
Personally, ...
I believe that ...

Example

More exercise, less stress?

Do you know how dangerous stress can be? If affects us both physically and mentally, so reducing stress is something that we should all try to do. While many people feel that the best way to get rid of stress is some form of exercise, there are other ways which are just as effective.

The benefits of physical exercise are obvious. First of all, keeping fit helps your body stay strong and healthy. Therefore you are less likely to get sick or suffer from stress-related health problems such as heart attacks and cancer. Furthermore, exercise is a good way to get rid of frustation and anger, because after exercise the brain produces hormones called endorphins which make us feel good.

On the other hand, if you are out of shape, exercise can be quite painful. You may pull a muscle or injure yourself. Furthermore, exercising may even cause more stress since it will add to your already hectic schedule.

In conclusion, the best way to combat stress in our lives is to live a healthy life. As James Freeman Clarke says, “Never hurry. Take plenty of exercise. Always be cheerful. Take all the sleep you need. You may expect to be well.”