Where a child grows up can have a profound influence on their development, opportunities, and overall well-being. Some people believe that city life offers better educational and social advantages, while others argue that the countryside provides a safer an...
Faglig kvalitetssikret av lærere og toppstudenter · Følger læreplanen (LK20) · Sist oppdatert 2026-08-01
Deciding whether it is better for children to grow up in the city or the countryside requires a careful weighing of the advantages and disadvantages of both settings. This guide provides a detailed analysis of this classic discussion essay topic, showing you how to structure your arguments, use specific evidence, and achieve a higher grade.
Why this matters on the exam
The "discuss both views and give your opinion" essay format is a staple of English exams in Norwegian upper secondary school. This exact topic—urban versus rural upbringing—or variations of it frequently appear because they test your ability to construct a balanced, well-reasoned argument on a complex societal issue. The task requires you to move beyond simple personal preference and engage with sociological, economic, and psychological factors. Examiners use this type of prompt to assess your command of formal academic writing, your ability to structure a cohesive text, and your skill in using evidence to support your claims. Similar exam tasks might ask you to discuss government spending priorities or whether social media unites or isolates us. Mastering this structure will prepare you for a wide range of potential exam questions.
Core concepts for this topic
To elevate your essay from a simple list of pros and cons to a sophisticated analysis, you should incorporate key sociological terms. Using these concepts demonstrates a deeper understanding of the forces at play. …