Argumentative Essays

1. Argumentative Essays Structure

2. Introduction • Introduce topic • State claims • Review topic • Literary work—state author, title • Issue/theory—explanation • Film—director, year, title • State claim at end of paragraph • Why issue is important—why reader should read it

3. Argument and Counterargument • Supporting Evidence • Prove argument • Topic sentence—help reader understand claim • Each paragraph one idea only—clearer and more direct, easier to read/follow • Introduce evidence—factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal evidence to support thesis. • Concluding sentence • Weakest to strongest argument, then counterargument • Counterargument, then argument • Multiple counterarguments, then arguments • Counterargument • Make argument reasonable and cover bases • Refute argument readers may think of • Don’t run down other’s opinions (put them on the defense), rather, counter argue it factually • Reassert claim with concluding sentence

4. Conclusion • Restate argument, supporting evidence • Significance of claim • Why is it important to pay attention to what was said in the essay • Leaves most impression on the reader • Optional—how your idea can lead to a bigger picture

6. Position Method • -Try to convince your audience that you are in the right, and the other view of your argument is wrong. • Introduce and define your topic. Never assume that your reader is familiar with the issues surrounding your topic. This is your chance to set up the premise (point of view) you want to use. This is also a good time to present your thesis statement. • 1. Background information. The more knowledgeable you are, the more concise an argument you will be able to give. Information is the backbone to a solid argument. • 2. Development. Start developing your ideas and provide evidence and reasoning. • 3. Be prepared to deal with the "Other Side." Be prepared to answer those opinions or points of view with knowledgeable responses. • 4. In conclusion..Re-emphasize your main arguments and thesis statement.

7. -Used when there is a problematic situation, and you would like to offer a solution to the situation. Introduce and define the nature of the problematic situation. Make sure to focus on the actual problem and what is causing the problem 1. Propose a solution, or a number of solutions, to the problem. Be specific. If you have one solution, you may choose to break it into parts and spend a paragraph or so describing each part. If you have several solutions, you may instead choose to spend a paragraph on each scenario. 2. Describe the workability of the various solutions. 3. Summarize and conclude your proposal. Proposal Method

8. Sources http://depts.washington.edu/owrc/Handouts/Argumentative%20Paper%20Format.pdf http://www.apsu.edu/sites/apsu.edu/files/academic-support-center/Argumentative_Persuasive_Essay--How_to_Write.pdf http://www.cgu.edu/PDFFiles/Writing%20Center/Writing%20Center%20Resources/Argumentative%20Essays.pdf