Opinion, argument and persuasion

Q: What are the three different levels of strength you can use when expressing an opinion?

Opinions can be strong (certainty), neutral/standard (general view), or tentative/soft (suggestive).

Q: How can HL students use "tentative" language to show evaluation?

Phrases like "It could be argued..." show that a student understands multiple perspectives exist, satisfying the requirement for evaluation .

Q: What is the "PEEL" method for structuring body paragraphs?

PEEL stands for Point , Evidence , Explanation , and Link .

Q: What are the three main types of argumentative signposts (connectives)?

The three main types are those used to add a point , show contrast , and show cause and effect .

Q: What are some common rhetorical devices used in persuasive writing?

Common devices include rhetorical questions , the rule of three , emotive language , and direct address .

Q: What is a common mistake to avoid when presenting an opinion or argument?

Common mistakes include the "I think" loop , being too aggressive , and lack of development .

Language B · IB Diploma Programme (DP) - SL & HL · 5 min read · Updated: 7 Sept 2026

Introduction: The Power of Your Voice

Welcome to one of the most important chapters in your Language B journey! In the IB Diploma Programme, it isn't enough to just "speak" the language; you need to be able to influence, convince, and express your unique perspective. Whether you are writing an editorial for Paper 1 or participating in a heated discussion during your Individual Oral, mastering the functions of opinion, argument, and persuasion is your "secret weapon" for reaching those high marks in Criterion B (Message) and Criterion C (Conceptual Understanding).

In this chapter, we will explore how to move beyond simple statements like "I think this is good" to building sophisticated arguments that can change a reader's mind.

1. Expressing Your Opinion: Beyond the Basics

In English B (or any Language B), variety is the spice of life. If you use the phrase "I think..." in every paragraph, your writing becomes repetitive. To show the examiner you have a high level of language competency, you need to vary your opinion markers.

Varying the Strength of Your Opinion

Depending on how sure you are, you can use different expressions:

Strong Opinion: "I am absolutely convinced that...", "There is no doubt that...", "It is undeniable that..."
Neutral/Standard Opinion: "From my perspective...", "In my view...", "As far as I am concerned..."
Tentative/Soft Opinion: "It seems to me that...", "I would argue that...", "One could suggest that..."

Quick Tip: For HL students, using "tentative" language (like "It could be argued...") is a great way to show evaluation—one of your key command terms! It shows you understand that other perspectives exist.

2. Building an Argument: The Logic of Persuasion

An argument is like a bridge: it needs strong pillars to hold it up. In the "Social Organization" or "Sharing the Planet" themes, you will often be asked to discuss or evaluate a topic. To do this effectively, your ideas must be organized logically.

The "PEEL" Method for Paragraphs

To ensure your argument is clear and developed (Criterion B), try this structure for your body paragraphs:

P - Point: State your main argument clearly.
E - Evidence: Provide an example or a "Did you know?" fact related to the theme (e.g., a specific environmental issue).
E - Explanation: Explain how the evidence supports your point.
L - Link: Connect the paragraph back to the main question or the next point.

Essential Connectives (Argumentative Signposts)

These words act as "GPS" for your reader, telling them where your argument is going:

To add a point: Furthermore, In addition, Moreover.
To show contrast: However, On the other hand, Conversely.
To show cause and effect: Consequently, As a result, Therefore.

Note: For more on how to use these in different contexts, see the chapter on "Comparing, contrasting and evaluating".

3. The Art of Persuasion: Winning Hearts and Minds

Persuasion is different from just giving an opinion. When you persuade, you have a specific purpose: you want the audience to do something or change their mind. This is common in text types like speeches, editorials, and advertisements.

Persuasive Techniques (Rhetorical Devices)

Don't worry if these seem tricky at first! Just try to pick one or two to use in your next writing task:

Rhetorical Questions: "Do we really want to live in a world without nature?" (This makes the reader think).
The "Rule of Three": Using three words or phrases together for impact (e.g., "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle").
Emotive Language: Choosing words that trigger feelings (e.g., instead of "bad", use "devastating" or "heartbreaking").
Direct Address: Using "you" and "we" to involve the audience.

Did you know?

The IB examiners look for "Conceptual Understanding." This means your persuasion should change based on your audience. A speech to your classmates about "Human Ingenuity" will use different persuasive language than a formal letter to a government official about "Law and Order"!

4. Vocabulary for Debate and Discussion

Whether in Paper 1 or your Individual Oral, you will need "functional" vocabulary to handle different viewpoints.

Agreeing and Disagreeing

Agreeing:
"I completely agree with this point because..."
"That is a very valid observation."

Disagreeing (Politely!):
"I see your point, however..."
"While that may be true in some cases, I believe..."
"I'm afraid I have a different perspective on this."

Summarizing and Concluding

At the end of your argument, you need to "wrap it up" to show synthesis (especially for HL):
"In conclusion...", "To sum up...", "Taking everything into account, it is clear that..."

5. Avoiding Common Mistakes

Even the best students can fall into these traps. Keep an eye out for these:

The "I think" Loop: Overusing "I think" makes your writing sound informal and repetitive. Solution: Use the variety of markers we discussed in Section 1.
Being Too Aggressive: In an IB context, "persuasion" should still be respectful and balanced. Solution: Acknowledge the other side before proving why your side is stronger.
Lack of Development: Stating an opinion without explaining why. Solution: Always ask yourself "Because?" after you make a statement.

Quick Review Box:
- Opinion: Your personal view (Subjective).
- Argument: A logical series of points (PEEL).
- Persuasion: Language used to influence the audience (Rhetorical devices).
- Register: Remember to adjust your tone based on who you are talking to!

Summary: Key Takeaways

To succeed in Language B, you must be able to navigate the "Vocabulary and functions" of opinion, argument, and persuasion. Remember that SL students focus on clear communication and organization, while HL students should aim for higher-order thinking like analysis and evaluation. By varying your vocabulary, structuring your paragraphs logically, and using rhetorical devices to engage your audience, you will be well on your way to a Grade 7!

Quick check

Can you answer these now?

Open each question to check the key ideas from this chapter.

Why is it important to vary opinion markers in IB Language B assessments?

Varying opinion markers avoids repetition and demonstrates a higher level of language competency, helping students reach higher marks in Criterion B (Message).

What are the three different levels of strength you can use when expressing an opinion?

Opinions can be strong (certainty), neutral/standard (general view), or tentative/soft (suggestive).

How can HL students use "tentative" language to show evaluation?

Phrases like "It could be argued..." show that a student understands multiple perspectives exist, satisfying the requirement for evaluation.

What is the "PEEL" method for structuring body paragraphs?

PEEL stands for Point, Evidence, Explanation, and Link.

What are the three main types of argumentative signposts (connectives)?

The three main types are those used to add a point, show contrast, and show cause and effect.

What is the primary difference between an opinion and persuasion?

An opinion is a personal view, while persuasion has the specific purpose of influencing the audience to act or change their minds.

What are some common rhetorical devices used in persuasive writing?

Common devices include rhetorical questions, the rule of three, emotive language, and direct address.

How does "Conceptual Understanding" affect persuasive language?

It requires students to adjust their language and register based on the specific audience they are addressing.

How can you politely disagree during a debate or oral exam?

Use phrases that acknowledge the other person's view before presenting your own, such as "I see your point, however..."

What is a common mistake to avoid when presenting an opinion or argument?

Common mistakes include the "I think" loop, being too aggressive, and lack of development.

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