Steps to Building an Argument Argument Writing Steps to Building an Argument

Argumentative Writing Make a plan for the argument you can support with the text provided. Argumentative writing does include two sides. This means that you must include the opposing side, even if only briefly.

Planning Planning begins with highlighting, text marking, and annotating the text set. You WILL NOT be able to use a highlighter on the FSA writing test. HOWEVER, for this first practice, highlight evidence for each side of the evidence a different color. This will make selecting evidence easier.

Characteristics of Argument Writing Makes a claim Convinces reader claim is true or valid Supports your claim with reasons Uses evidence—facts and data Acknowledges counterclaims—the other side of the argument

Lead & Introduction The lead should engage the reader. Leads can be facts, quotes, question, anecdotes, or imagery. The introduction provides background information leading to the claim Take a clear position; clearly states your viewpoint DO NOT begin your argument DO NOT be neutral!

Body Paragraph 1 Transition to your first reason with your most convincing piece of evidence/support Topic sentence – introduce your reason Quote or refer to a source (CITE Evidence) Strong textual support Explanations of text support – Explain it by connecting it to your claim and the topic sentence for that paragraph ~ your reason. Sum it up

Body Paragraph 2 Transition to your second reason with convincing evidence/support Topic sentence – introduce your reason Quote or refer to a source (CITE Evidence) Strong textual support Explanations of text support – Explain it by connecting it to your claim and the topic sentence for that paragraph ~ your reason. Sum it up

Acknowledge the Counter State the opposite viewpoint – say what they might think Explain why they think this Say what you think– reference your claim (Refute) Give evidence against the counter (Rebuttal) State why you disagree (Rebuttal)

Counterclaim starters Critics argue that… Others may say that…but I argue that…. A common argument is ….but…. It may be true….However…. It is easy to think that…..but when you look at the facts Yes, some might say…but…

Conclusion Relate back to the lead & claim Give a benefit or warning.

Time to Trade Papers- Peer Review Read the introduction. Is there a lead or grabber? If so put a Underline the claim. Is it clear? If so put a

Peer Review – mark the body paragraph T - Topic Sentence about Reason E - Evidence A - Analysis – this is where you explain how or why the evidence is related to your reason A - Analysis S - Sum it up Sentence