Overview
The purpose of an essay is to present an argument or
point of view and give examples or reasons to support it.
The topic will be a
question or an issue which people generally have different opinions about.
The
essay could present both sides of the argument, or just one, depending on the
instructions given in the task.
An essay should be written in a formal or
neutral register and should be well organised, with an introduction, main body
and a conclusion. It should include language appropriate for expressing
opinions, agreeing and disagreeing. The vocabulary required will depend upon
the topic.