Expository: Circles of Influence Framework

Writing Practice

Complete your revision by reading this together with our 2022 Issue 4/5 print issue or as a standalone guide.

USE THE CIRCLES OF INFLUENCE FRAMEWORK

One way of addressing a statement is to use the Circles of Influence framework. Think about how an issue affects different stakeholders ranging from the individual to the wider society.

Without the Framework
Your essay might focus too much on the subject from the same point of view.
With the Framework
The structure helps you examine the issue from a wider range of perspectives. Think about how the topic at hand impacts the individual > immediate community > wider society (national or international level)

Example:

A wider variety of vending machines should be more available. Discuss.

Without the Framework
Point 1: This will help make customers’ lives more convenient.

Point 2: Items from vending machines also tend to be cheaper, and this will lower the cost of more products for customers.

Point 3: Vending machines are fun to use, customers can enjoy using them.
With the Framework
Point 1: This will make people’s lives more convenient.

Point 2: Vending machines could be the solution for an area with less space and not enough manpower.

Point 3: Society might lose out on the benefits of the human touch as people are in less contact with the individuals providing their daily needs.