A For-and-Against Essay
Step-by-step writing framework + model
A complete, ready-to-teach A2 writing lesson on "A For-and-Against Essay". Includes objective, target vocabulary (on one hand, on the other hand, advantage, disadvantage…), warm-up, controlled & freer practice, production task, exit ticket, and homework. Print-and-play or run live in the ReadyESL classroom.
Warm-up (5 min)
Activate prior knowledge: ask students what they already know about a for-and-against essay. Brainstorm 3–5 words on the board.
Presentation (10 min)
Introduce the target language for A For-and-Against Essay using flashcards/visuals. Drill pronunciation chorally, then individually.
- on one hand
- on the other hand
- advantage
- disadvantage
- balanced
- conclusion
- linking words
- argument
Controlled Practice (10 min)
- Matching: words ↔ pictures
- Gap-fill worksheet
- Pronunciation drill of: on one hand, on the other hand, advantage, disadvantage
Freer Practice (12 min)
Students write a short piece (60–120 words) applying the A For-and-Against Essay structures.
Production (10 min)
Mini-presentation or group share: each student/team produces an original example using the target language.
Cool-down & Exit Ticket (3 min)
Each student says/writes one sentence using a target word from today's lesson.
Homework
Reinforcement: complete the A For-and-Against Essay worksheet or record a 30-second voice note using 5 target words.