Discussion texts
Creating discussion texts (both oral and written) involves selecting and organising information
to support two or more differing opinions, viewpoints or perspectives on an issue. Each
viewpoint will require elaboration (explanation, supporting evidence and/or examples) that will
provide the reader with a reasoned and balanced overview of the issue.
Discussion texts differ from arguments or persuasive texts, which generally only develop one
viewpoint and may present a biased view (that of the writer). A written discussion may conclude
with the writer presenting their own view or a statement of recommendation, but this will be
based on the evidence provided.
Like all text types, discussion texts can be adapted or combined with other text types
depending on the audience and purpose. So elements of a recount or report may appear in a
discussion or elements of a discussion may form part of a report, explanation or recount.
In effective discussions, all points of view are considered and the audience’s attitudes may
change when different perspectives are seen. Participating in discussions (both oral and
written) provides the opportunity to experience different roles and responsibilities and to
develop tolerance of different opinions.
Structure
The structure of a discussion text often includes (but not always):
• a statement of the issue/s with a brief explanation of why the issue is being discussed, as
well as a preview of the main viewpoints
• arguments for, with supporting evidence/examples
• arguments against or alternative views, with supporting evidence/examples (another
common structure presents the viewpoints ‘for’ and ‘against’ alternately)
• a summary and a statement of recommendation or conclusion; the summary may develop
one particular viewpoint using reasoned judgments based on the evidence provided
• a bibliography, footnoting and referencing (in more complex discussions)