Counterargument and refutation

1. Counterargument and refutation * Note: This will be addressed in paragraph 5 of your essay. This should be the one and only place where you acknowledge the opposing view!*

2. Counterargument • A brief argument that attempts to disprove opposing opinions about the problem or issue. • Enlisting a counterargument is NOT a sign of weakness. It actually strengthens your argument because it shows that you have taken the time to carefully examine the opposing point of view.

3. Setting up a counterargument to an assumed viewpoint

4. Example • If you wanted to counter the contention that wearing school uniforms promotes a safer school environment, you could say: • It may be argued that wearing school uniforms promotes a safer school environment; however, a closer examination of statistics shows that the incidence of crime is just as high at schools with a relaxed dress code as it is at those that require uniforms.

5. Setting up a counterargument to a documented viewpoint

6. Example • If you wanted to counter Mr. Kanak’s statement that violent video games lead to violent behavior, you could try something like this: • It has been argued by Mr. Kanak that violent video games lead to violent behavior; however, a close examination of facts indicates that any correlation between the two is based solely on coincidence, not hard facts or statistics of any kind.

7. How to set up your counterargument • For your persuasive essay, you are only required to attack one point from the opposing side. As such, you will need to determine what you feel to be the strongest point that could be used against you. After you’ve identified it, you will use the format listed in the previous slides to counter that argument in paragraph 5 of your essay.