Writing: An Opinion Essay
An opinion essay is the central B2 writing genre — taking a position and defending it with structured argument. The format covers an introduction with thesis statement, two or three body paragraphs each presenting a supporting reason with examples, a counter-argument paragraph acknowledging the other view, and a conclusion reinforcing the position. Learners build the argument-structure and discourse-marker skills central to B2 Writing.
This worksheet builds B2 writing fluency with opinion-essay format.
Worksheet preview
What’s inside:
- A model opinion essay with annotated structure
- Phrase bank with thesis-statement openers, supporting-argument connectors, counter-argument markers, and conclusion phrases
- Argument-mapping task: identify thesis, supporting points, counter, conclusion in the model
- Planning template for the writer’s own essay
- Original-writing task with marking rubric
- Full Answer Key plus Teacher Notes
Common challenges: Thesis clarity at B2 — the writer’s position must be visible in the introduction. Discourse-marker variety: avoiding repeated However, Firstly, In conclusion by varying with That said, To begin with, To wrap up. Counter-argument handling: acknowledging without conceding.
For: Adult and teenage learners (14+) at CEFR B2, in upper-intermediate classes, 1:1 lessons, or self-study. Maps directly onto Cambridge B2 First (FCE) Writing Part 1. Part of the Essay Writing collection — the natural next step is A For-and-Against Essay, which extends opinion writing into balanced argument.
