There are a number of different positions based on the style of writing requested in your exam. For example:

• Argumentative – requires you to choose one side.
• Discussion – evaluate both sides – you may not have to choose a position and can be located in the middle.

In terms of choosing the position you'll take, this is how I recommend going about it for:

• Persuasive writing:

  • Choose the 'easiest' position. This is the one where you have prior knowledge of and can come up with 2 arguments quickly for.
  • Then come up with 2 arguments for and 1 argument against that position you have chosen.
  • Plan
  • Write

• Discussion

  • State both benefits/disadvantages
  • If you're asked to choose one side, then make it evident. If not, then you can say an 'it depends' type of argument.

Your position choice should be evident in your planning.

Below is a guide to how I would plan an argumentative piece:

Step 1

Look at the main requirement in the question and answer it. Write this answer down, as this answer also forms part of your conclusion.

Step 2

Now, plan the steps you will need to get to your ultimate answer in (1) above.

That is, you will need the following:

Introduction – Why the issue has arisen

Argument 1 – This first argument should also have a link to your answer. Provide an example if time permits.

Argument 2 – The second argument should also have a link to your answer. Provide an example if time permits.

Counter-argument & Re-Orientation – This is to balance out your argument, and then you need to have another argument to then re-orientate back to your original position. Note that you don't need to explicitly state your conclusion, as a conclusion is a recap of everything above from the answer to argument 1 and 2. Further, you can use the plan as a basis for signposting the direction of the writing piece in the introduction.

Let's do some examples now of position choice and planning:

A high flying executive stole over $6 million from her employer used a portion of that money to fund clinical trials of a new drug that has helped save the lives of over 12 babies born with severe neurological illnesses, including her own. This former executive has been lauded as both a hero but also hated. Do you think it is wrong to obtain money for a worthy cause at any cost? Why/why not?

There is no space in schools for corporate sponsorship. Do you agree with this statement or not? State your reasons.

Corporate sponsorship in schools can allow mutual benefits such as new equipment for schools and greater recognition for brands. Discuss the benefits and disadvantages of corporate sponsorship in schools.

Technology is fast becoming an essential tool for work and play. Should technology be taught in all schools?

Discuss the benefits and disadvantages of implementing a global language across all nations.

Technology is fast becoming an essential tool for work and play. Should technology be a compulsory part of the school curriculum?

Students should be able to grade their teachers. Discuss the benefits and disadvantages of allowing this practice.

Many science fiction stories deal with the possibility of being able to "design" our children by choosing the specific physical and personality traits we would like them to have.No longer is this just fiction, however.Cloning may allow us to weed out genetic disease, enhance desirable traits, even deliver made‐to‐order children.Do you think this is a good idea?Why or why not?Use specific examples and reasons to support your position.

Whales are an important and often endangered part of the global marine environment. Many countries have outlawed whaling. Some countries, however, continue to catch and kill whales for a range of purposes (including for food, traditional reasons, scientific research etc). Write a persuasive piece of writing arguing for or against global laws banning whaling.

Key Rules to remember:

• If you are supposed to choose a position, do so.
• Choose the easiest position.
• Persuasive requires one position and discussion require you to consider both sides equally with perhaps your view on one side.

Now it's time to do your assignment.

1. Download the assignment question here.
2. Print it out or if you want to do it electronically, save it.
3. Complete the questions to it.
4. Then check the solutions on the video below.
5. To get the worded solutions/sample essays, download them here.

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