The Question The first part of the question for an ielts discussion essay will be a statement containing two opposing views. You will then be asked to discuss both sides of the argument and give your own opinion

others say that they are inhumane and should be abolished. 
Note my use of synonyms. You don’t have to replace every key word but 
do so where possible whilst ensuring that your language sounds natural. 
There aren’t any suitable synonyms of ‘zoo’ that I can think of, so I've 
repeated this word from the statement.
 
2) Thesis and outline statements 
Now we need to add an 
outline statement
where you outline the two main 
points that you’ll cover in the rest of the essay (ideas 1 and 2 above) and 
a 
thesis statement
where you state your opinion.
 

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Outline & thesis statements: 
While the development of breeding programmes contributes to the 
preservation of endangered species, I believe that the poor conditions 
that many animals held in captivity are kept in make the existence of 
zoos unacceptable.  
So, let’s bring the three elements of our introduction together. 

 Introduction
This introduction achieves three important functions: 
• 
It shows the examiner that you understand the question. 
• 
It acts as a guide to the examiner as to what your essay is about. 
• 
It also helps to keep you focused and on track as you write. 
The two ideas in your introduction will become your two main body paragraphs. 
Main body paragraph 1 
– Breeding programmes for endangered species, some 
species saved from extinction. 
Main body paragraph 2 
– Cramped cages & unnatural environments, 
animals distressed.
 
How To Write Main Body Paragraphs 
Main body paragraphs in IELTS discussion essays should contain 3 things:
• 
Topic sentence – outline the view you don’t agree with 
•