What is Discursive Writing?

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Discursive writing is possibly the most illusive part of the HSC, with few hard and fast rules discursive writing is mostly up to the author. Given the pressure of time creating a simultaneously light-hearted and hard-hitting discursive can seem like an impossible task but have no fear, the blog post will delve into the definition, features, and structures of a discursive text.

Defining discursive writing

Discursive texts are texts whose primary focus is to explore an idea or variety of topics. These texts involve the discussion of ideas or opinions without the direct intention of pursuing the reader, listener, or viewer to adopt any single point of view. Discursive texts can be humorous or serious in tone and can have a formal or informal register.

It's clear in this definition that discursive texts are not essays, they do not conform to the structure or purpose of an essay and are more centered on the author's exploration of ideas. The final sentence around the register confirms this change. The origin of discursive from the Latin verb; ‘discrete’ - to run about, gives us an idea of the structure of a discursive, in its ‘running about or around’ different ideas.

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Key features of discursive writing

● It explores an idea

● Does not intend to persuade a reader

● Is not arguing a single point of view

● Displays a broad-ranging but idiosyncratic knowledge

Now, having a greater understanding of the key distinguishing features of discursive texts, let's dive into the structure.

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Introduction

● Your introduction needs to catch your reader's attention, bring them into the discussion, and provide a unique perspective on the question.

● Your topic needs to be introduced either explicitly or implicitly.

● Both sides of the topic you are discussing the need to be mentioned.

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Body

● The body of the discursive will showcase your flow of ideas around a topic, which will be backed up by evidence or anecdote, there are usually a minimum of two body paragraphs in a discursive.

● Evidence can include (depending on the question)- examples from prescribed texts, examples from related texts, anecdotes, and historical events.

● The body of a discursive is where the personal voice becomes extremely important, remember as discursive is less constrictive than other forms of writing feel free to use literary devices, anecdotes, and take inspiration from your favourite texts.

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Conclusion

● A quick sum-up of the discussion.

● End on a reflective note that showcases how the discussion contained in the body is relevant to both the question and your perspective.

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Still feeling unsure about discursive writing? Reach out at Concept! Our HSC English tutors are equipped with the strategies and tools to help you master discursive writing. Enquire here.