DISCUSSION TEXT

Social Function

To present (at least) two points of view about an

issue

Generic Structure

1. Issue:– Statement – Preview

2. Arguments for against or statement of differing points of view:– Point – Elaboration

3. Conclusion or recommendation

Significant Lexicogrammatical

Features

1. Focus on generic human and generic

non-human Participants

2. Use of:

- Material Processes, e.g. has produced, have developed, to feed

- Relational Processes, e.g., is, could have, cause are

- Mental Processes, e.g., feel

3. Use of Comparative, contrastive and Consequential conjunctions

4. Reasoning expressed as verbs

and nouns (abstraction)

Example

Issue

Genetic research has produced both exciting and frightening possibilities. Scientist are now able to create new

forms of life in the laboratory due to the development

Argument for point

On the one hand, the ability to create

life in laboratory could greatly

benefit mankind.

Elaboration

For example, because it is very expensive to obtain insulin from natural resources, scientist have

developed a method to manufacture it inexpensively.

Point 2

Another benficial application of genre spicing in agriculture

Elaboration 2

Scientist foresee the day when new plants will be developed using nitrogen from the air instead of from fertilizer.

Therefore food production could be increased. In addition,

entirely new plants could be developed to feed the worlds

hungry people.

Any question?