Argumentative Writing Choosing a position and persuading your reader using logical arguments to agree with your position.

Expository Writing Expository: Structure: An expository essay has a purpose to either inform, explain, or describe a topic. It gives a balanced account of the topic. It has a neutral and objective tone. Structure: Introduction: lead the reader into the topic and state the purpose of your essay Body: divide the main topic into sub-points. Describe, explain, compare, or classify the information to support the topic. Conclusion: remind the reader of your overall point and suggest wider implications to close the essay

Argumentative Writing An argumentative essay has the purpose to convince the reader of the validity of your point of view. Appeals to the readers logic rather than emotion. Clearly states an opinion. Structure: Introduction: Leads the reader into the topic, the controversy or debate surrounding that topic, and clearly states your position. Body: Begins by making points that support your overall position. Then presents and refutes opposing arguments (concession and rebuttal). Conclusion: Does not introduce new arguments but rather restates the overall position clearly and briefly explains how you have demonstrated its validity.

Concession Definition: recognizing the opposing viewpoint and acknowledging that it has some merit. A reader of your essay is more likely to listen to you if you show you can see his/her point of view before you counter that argument.

Rebuttal Definition: to refute or disprove by offering a contrary argument. Once you have shown the reader the other argument you then need to disprove that argument to further your main point and show that the other side is flawed.

Example Concession example: Many school administrators think an open campus would be a temptation for students to cut classes and act irresponsibly. Rebuttal example: However, students who earn the privilege of open campus would be unlikely to jeopardize that privilege; besides, rules could be created to rescind the privilege after one class cut.

Transitions Here are some transitions to help when writing about the other side: It is true that…however…therefore… Certainly…but…in short… Admittedly…on the other hand…so… Of course…nevertheless…as a result… Obviously…on the contrary…finally… Sure…however…in addition…

Citing from Multiple Sources When you are given multiple sources to take text evidence from you must change how you cite your concrete details. Your citation should include the authors last name and the page number (if available). If it is not available you may use the title of the text. Transition, lead in “Write your concrete detail here making sure it is word for word” (Smith 29).

Assignment Write a 4 paragraph argumentative essay. Choose a position: The National Guard should continue to protect the Little Rock 9 to ensure their safety. The National Guard should not continue to protect the Little Rock 9 because it is not changing anything; the students are violent whether they are there or not.

Organization For your essay you will have: Introduction: 4-6 sentences introducing your topic. Your last sentence in your introduction is your thesis which must state your position and your counterclaim. Body Paragraph 1: This paragraph argues your position. Your TS should state your position and two reasons supporting it (which will be supported in your two chunks). Support your position in a 2 chunk paragraph using text evidence. Body Paragraph 2: This is your counterclaim/concession rebuttal. Your TS should clearly acknowledge the opposing argument, and also offer two reasons why it is invalid. In a 2 chunk paragraph acknowledge the other side’s argument and offer a rebuttal using text evidence. Conclusion: Does not introduce new arguments. 4-5 sentences restating your position and it’s validity.