There are two ways to structure a discussion:

Option 1:

• Statement of thesis or issue
• 2 or 3 paragraphs for the issue
• 2 or 3 paragraphs against the issue
• Conclusion providing the writer’s point of view

Option 2:

• Statement of thesis or issue
• 1 paragraph for the issue followed by a paragraph giving the counter argument on the point
• A second paragraph for the issue followed by a paragraph giving the counter argument on this point
• A third paragraph for the issue followed by a paragraph giving the counter argument on this point
• Conclusion providing the writer’s point of view