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At Terminale, essay writing must demonstrate sophisticated argumentation and language use. Types of essays at BAC level : Argumentative essay : defend a clear thesis with evidence, examples, and counter-arguments. Discursive essay : explore both sides of an issue before reaching a balanced conclusion. Critical essay : evaluate a text, film, or idea using textual evidence and analysis. Advanced essay structure : Introduction : hook → background → thesis statement (specific, debatable). Body paragraphs : topic sentence → argument → evidence/example → analysis → link back to thesis. Counter-argument paragraph : acknowledge the opposing view → rebut it convincingly. Conclusion : restate thesis (different words) → summary → broader implication or call to action. Advanced language for essays : 'It is widely acknowledged that...' / 'A compelling case can be made for...' / 'Critics argue that... however, this view overlooks...' / 'The evidence strongly suggests that...' / 'This raises the fundamental question of...'
Exercise 1 : Write a complete argumentative essay (250-300 words) on:
'Artificial intelligence will do more harm than good. To what extent do you agree?'
Exercise 2 : Improve these weak essay sentences.
1. 'I think technology is bad because it makes people addicted.'
2. 'Some people say globalisation is good and some say it is bad.'
3. 'In conclusion, I have discussed many things about the environment.'
How do you write an effective counter-argument paragraph?
Correction
Structure: (1) Acknowledge the opposing view fairly: 'Admittedly, some argue that...'; (2) Use a concession: 'While it is true that...', 'There is some merit in...'; (3) Rebut with a stronger argument: 'However, this argument fails to consider...', 'Nevertheless, the evidence clearly shows...'; (4) Reinforce your thesis. A strong counter-argument paragraph shows intellectual maturity.
What makes a thesis statement strong?
Correction
A strong thesis statement is: (1) specific — not vague ('Technology affects society' is weak); (2) debatable — a fact is not a thesis ('The Earth is round' cannot be argued); (3) a complete sentence that takes a position; (4) a roadmap for the essay — it implies what the body paragraphs will discuss. Example: 'Although AI offers remarkable benefits in healthcare and education, its unregulated development poses serious threats to privacy and employment.'
What are the most effective ways to develop an argument in an essay?
Correction
(1) Use specific evidence — statistics, expert quotes, case studies, examples. (2) Analyse — do not just state facts; explain WHY they support your argument. (3) Use logical connectors — 'This demonstrates...', 'As a result...', 'Consequently...'. (4) Show cause and effect. (5) Use analogies to clarify complex ideas. (6) Anticipate objections and address them.