Argumentative Writing Jennifer Battista, HMS Writing Content Specialist, 2012

Argumentative Writing Shows logic and reason to show that one argument is more valid than another The argument must always use sound reasoning and solid evidence

How It's Different Than Persuasive Writing Persuasive writing is based almost entirely on claims. Its sole purpose is to be convincing. Argument writing, on the other hand, is based on claims that are supported by real evidence (found through research and reading various pieces of text on the topic). The writer acknowledges the opposing viewpoint(s) to further strengthen his/her argument.

Claim In argument writing, a claim is supported by reasons and evidence A claim is a person's position on a particular issue: Cheesy Poofs are an essential part of a nutritious lunch. A claim is an opinion rather than a fact. Cheesy Poofs are a snack (fact). Cheesy Poofs are an essential part of a nutritious lunch (opinion that can be argued).

Claim The strength of the argument depends not on the claim but on the reasons that are used to support the claim The evidence used to support the reasons is what convinces the reader to accept the claim

Example Claim: All students in the United States should learn a foreign language. Reason 1: Students in other countries learn foreign language (support with evidence). Reason 2: Studying a language helps students excel in other subjects (support with evidence). Reason 3: Knowing other languages is important in the business world (support with evidence).

Evidence Each of the reasons needs evidence to help prove the claim and support the reasons The kind of evidence that the writer would use depends on the type of argument (arguments of fact, judgment, or policy, e.g.)

Counter Argument An argument opposed to the claim or part of the claim It expresses the view of a person who disagrees with the writer's position

Why Include A Counter Argument Why? Doesn't its inclusion weaken the writer's argument? No. Done well, it actually makes the writer's argument stronger. It gives the writer a chance to respond to the reader's objections before they have finished reading the argumentative response. It shows that the writer is a reasonable person who has considered both sides of the debate.

Effectively Using the Counter Argument Should be expressed thoroughly and objectively Do not just write one sentence and then rebut it In a paragraph, give reasons why others might oppose the argument

Sample Essay Outline Introduction -Introduces the issue -States the thesis Body (2 paragraphs) -Reason 1 supported with evidence -Reason 2 supported with evidence -(PRO/ADV students)Reason 3 supported with evidence Counter Argument (1 paragraph) -Acknowledge the arguments against the thesis Conclusion -Sum up the argument, restate the thesis in different words, end with a forceful closing statement