How to Utilize Counter Arguments in IELTS Writing Task 2?

A. What is a Counter Argument?

Counter-argument (Phản đề) involves using reasons and evidence to refute a viewpoint that contradicts the writer's stance. In IELTS Writing Task 2, counter-arguments are typically used in argumentative essay prompts.

B. Placement

Counter-arguments are often placed in a separate paragraph. Typically, this would be body paragraph 2 in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. The preceding body paragraph 1 is used to analyze why the opposing viewpoint is considered valid.

C. Why Use Counter-Arguments in Writing Task 2?

Incorporating a counter-argument in your essay enhances its persuasiveness by highlighting gaps in the opposing argument. It also demonstrates that you have considered the issue from various perspectives.

Furthermore, in case you struggle for ideas in your opinion essay Task 2, this is an effective way to extend your essay, ensuring the required word count while staying focused on the IELTS topic.

D. Components of a Counter-Argument

Typically, a counter-argument consists of two parts:

• Phần 1: Đánh giá ý kiến trái chiều là chưa phù hợp
• Phần 2: Đi sâu vào phản biện ý kiến trái chiều đó bằng cách sử dụng luận điểm và dẫn chứng để cho thấy thiếu sót của nó

E.g.: Everyone should become vegetarian because they do not need to eat meat to have a healthy diet. Do you agree or disagree?

Here is an example of a paragraph refuting the viewpoint that “everyone should be vegetarian”. In this case, the preceding paragraph has already addressed why this viewpoint is valid.

(Phần 1) However, what this argument fails to consider is that not everyone can adopt a vegetarian diet. (Phần 2) As the quantity of calories in vegetables is fairly insignificant compared to that of meat, vegetarians whose job involves a lot of physical exercise may feel lethargic and exhausted. For example, swimmers need to consume a considerable amount of beef on a daily basis to guarantee their daily intense trainings. If these people followed a plant-based diet, they would not have sufficient nutrients and energy to practice swimming

→ In the above example, the writer has identified the inconsistency that not everyone can follow a vegetarian diet.

→ Afterwards, the writer argued explaining that because vegetarian food contains less energy, it is not suitable for people with high physical activity jobs such as athletes.

E. Is a Writing Task 2 essay always required to have a Counter-Argument?

The answer is no! Because Counter-Argument is an advanced technique in Writing, it should only be used when fully understood.

There are many approaches to tackling Argumentative essay types, and many high-scoring essays do not require a Counter-Argument. The most important thing is to persuade the reader—here, the examiner—with your viewpoint, and Counter-Argument is just one way to use it.

Additionally, this technique should also be used when you are completely inclined towards one of the two opinions, so if you agree with this opinion while also finding the other reasonable, then we will not use Counter-Argument.

F. How to write Writing Task 2 using Counter-Argument 

As mentioned, the essay type where you can use Counter-Argument is the argumentative essay. In IELTS Writing Task 2, Counter-Argument is used in Opinion and Discussion type questions.

Opinion type questions (agree or disagree)

For Opinion (agree or disagree), we can approach it in 3 ways:

• Nghiêng hẳn về một phía (hoàn toàn đồng ý hoặc không đồng ý)
• Vừa đồng ý, vừa không đồng ý
• Nghiêng hẳn về một phía, nhưng có sử dụng Counter – Argument

Với dạng bài Opinion có sử dụng Counter – Argument, ta có có cấu trúc như sau:

E.g.: Some people believe that school children should be given homework by their teachers. Do you agree or disagree?

When the writer agrees with the idea of 'no homework should be assigned,' the Counter-Argument for this topic can be written as follows:

Initially, this viewpoint seems reasonable, but homework serves to cultivate students' independent learning skills. Students who receive homework become proficient in self-directed learning as it necessitates thorough independent research to find solutions. It also enables them to deepen their understanding of the topics covered in class. For instance, research conducted by the Ghana Education Service revealed that students who were given homework by their teachers performed better academically compared to their peers who did not have similar opportunities. 

Discussion type questions

For a Discussion type essay, which requires discussing both viewpoints, if using a Counter-Argument, it should be written as follows:  

After analyzing the viewpoint you want to refute, you should write the Counter-Argument immediately. Then, use Body Paragraph 2 to delve deeper into the refutation. However, it's important to maintain balance between the body paragraphs.

E.g.: Some people believe that school children should not be given homework by their teachers, whereas others argue that homework plays an important role in the education of children. Discuss these both views and give your opinion.

When the writer agrees with the idea of 'assigning homework,' the Counter-Argument for this topic can be written as follows:

Some critics argue that homework imposes an unnecessary burden on children without enhancing educational outcomes. However, this viewpoint has limited validity. Critics should recognize that homework encourages students to apply classroom learning, thereby reinforcing their understanding of taught concepts. Consequently, it contributes significantly to their academic performance.

G. Ways to introduce a Counter-Argument

Using a signal phrase to indicate to the reader that the essay is about to present a counter viewpoint is essential for coherence, cohesion, and effective contrast.

Some phrases to introduce Counter-Argument

• What this argument overlooks/fails to consider/does not take into account is …
• This view seems/looks/sounds convincing/plausible/persuasive at first, but …
• While this position is popular, it is not supported by the facts/not logical/impractical.
• Although the core of this claim is valid, it suffers from a flaw in its reasoning/application,
• However, such thinking is only valid to some/ a limited extent, because …
• However, this thinking is flawed, as….

H. Tips for Writing Counter-Arguments

1. Các lỗi liên quan tới tiêu chí Task response

To maximize the effectiveness of a Counter-Argument and avoid unclear reasoning, it's advisable to use evidence and logical rebuttals that are highly persuasive.

1. Các lỗi liên quan tới tiêu chí Coherence & Cohesion

Efficiently use linking phrases to clearly differentiate between the viewpoint you oppose and the one you agree with.