| Full lesson | Create for a teacher a set of content for giving a lesson, beginning with the lesson plan. Each new block of materials must begin with an H1 heading (other subheaders must be H2, H3, etc). When you describe required pictures, write those descriptions in curly brackets, for example: {A picture of a triangle} |
| Which subject | English |
| What topic | Discursive essay |
| What length (min) | 30 |
| What age group | Year or Grade 9 |
| Class size | 20 |
| What curriculum | |
| Include full script | |
| Check previous homework | |
| Ask some students to presents their homework | |
| Add a physical break | |
| Add group activities | |
| Include homework | |
| Show correct answers | |
| Prepare slide templates | |
| Number of slides | 5 |
| Create fill-in cards for students | |
| Create creative backup tasks for unexpected moments |
Discursive Essay
Year 9
English
20 students
| Step Number | Step Title | Length (mins) | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction | 5 | Introduce the topic and objectives of the lesson. Explain what a discursive essay is. Discuss its purpose in presenting balanced arguments. |
| 2 | Essay Structure | 10 | Explain the structure of a discursive essay: Introduction, Argument, Counterargument, Conclusion. Provide examples and ask students to take notes. |
| 3 | Identifying Elements | 5 | In pairs, students will examine a sample discursive essay and identify key elements. Facilitate a brief discussion on their findings. |
| 4 | Writing Activity | 5 | Students will brainstorm potential topics for their discursive essays. Encourage them to consider both sides of each topic. |
| 5 | Feedback Explanation | 3 | Explain the feedback process. Distribute the marking rubric to students, highlighting aspects they should focus on in their writing. |
| 6 | Assigning Homework | 2 | Inform students that their homework is to write a discursive essay based on their chosen topic, applying the structure and elements discussed in class. |
| 7 | Wrap Up | 2 | Summarise key points covered during the lesson, answer any final questions, and remind students of the homework deadline. |
Students will write a discursive essay, applying the structure and key elements learned during the lesson. Collect assignments in the next class for feedback without presentations.
"Good morning, everyone! Today we are going to explore an important type of writing known as the discursive essay. Our objectives for this lesson are to understand the structure of a discursive essay, identify key elements like the introduction, argument, counterargument, and conclusion, develop our skills in articulating balanced arguments, and engage in peer feedback to enhance our writing skills. By the end of the lesson, you will also have a homework assignment to complete a discursive essay.
A discursive essay is a piece of writing that discusses a particular topic. Its purpose is to present both sides of an argument in a balanced way, allowing the reader to understand different perspectives. So, let’s dive in and explore how we can structure our essays effectively!"
"Now, let’s talk about the structure of a discursive essay. A typical discursive essay consists of four main parts:
Please take notes as I provide examples of each of these sections. When you write your essays, this clear structure will help your ideas flow logically and persuasively."
"Now, I’d like you to work in pairs to examine a sample discursive essay that I’ve provided. Your task is to identify the key elements we just discussed: the introduction, argument, counterargument, and conclusion.
Once you’ve had some time to discuss, we’ll come together as a class and share what you found. I’d love to hear your insights on how each part contributes to the overall effectiveness of the essay."
"Excellent discussion, everyone! Now let’s get those ideas flowing. I want you to take a moment to think of potential topics for your own discursive essays.
Remember to consider both sides of each topic. Write down at least three ideas, making sure to note down arguments for and against each topic. This will help you prepare for writing your essays later."
"As we wrap up our brainstorming session, let’s talk about the feedback process for your essays. After you complete your discursive essays for homework, we will conduct a peer feedback session.
I am handing out a marking rubric that outlines the key areas you should focus on while writing. This will help you understand how your work will be assessed, so please read through it carefully. Key areas include clarity of argument, use of evidence, acknowledgment of counterarguments, and overall coherence."
"Now for your homework! I want each of you to write your discursive essay based on the topic you brainstormed earlier. Make sure to apply the structure and key elements we’ve discussed in today’s lesson.
You will submit your essays in our next class for feedback, and remember, no presentations are required this time; just the written work!"
"To conclude, let’s summarise the key points we’ve covered today. We learned the structure of a discursive essay, identified its key elements, brainstormed potential topics, and discussed the feedback process for your essays.
Do you have any final questions before we finish? If not, please remember to complete your homework and come prepared to share your essays in our next class. Thank you all for your participation today!"
What are the four main parts of a discursive essay? Briefly describe the purpose of each part.
Define a thesis statement in the context of a discursive essay. Why is it important to include one in your introduction?
Choose one of the topics you brainstormed in class. What are two arguments in favour of this topic and two counterarguments against it?
In your own words, explain why it is essential to acknowledge counterarguments in a discursive essay.
Provide an example of evidence or an example that could support an argument in your essay topic. Why is this evidence relevant?
Reflect on the peer feedback process discussed in class. What are three key areas you should focus on when giving feedback to a peer's discursive essay?
Draft a potential conclusion for your discursive essay. What key points will you summarise, and how will you reaffirm your thesis?
Write a brief paragraph explaining how the structure of your discursive essay will help you present a balanced argument on your chosen topic.