This lesson is about how to structure a sentence or paragraph so that you discuss both sides of an argument.
Making concessions
Good writers often consider other arguments that are different, before presenting their own views.
For example:
- Although some people would like to have a lot of children (concession) the cost of raising them has to be considered first (writer’s view).
The following expressions are useful when making concessions:
- While / Although
- Despite the fact that
- Even though
- It could be argued that
- Admittedly / Certainly
- but / However
- It may be true that
For example:
- State your position: It seems to me that television has few benefits for children.
- Introduce the concession: While I agree that there are some good educational programmes.
- Give more supporting detail for your position: Far too much advertising is targeted at children. This encourages them to want expensive goods that the parents may not be able to afford to buy.
Note: A concession is often used when writing a conclusion, because it can sum up pros and cons.
Exercise
Please open the exercise to continue.