1. Aim: How do we format an argumentative essay?
Do Now: Gather together the following:
What will you be proving in this essay? – Do you have a thesis statement?
What examples will you use to help support your claim?

2. Let’s remind ourselves…
Argument
Directions: Closely read each of the four texts provided on pages 12 through 19 and write a source-based argument on the topic below. You may use the margins to take notes as you read and scrap paper to plan your response. Write your argument beginning on page 1 of your essay booklet.
Topic: Is the U.S. still the ‘Land of Opportunity’?
Your Task: Carefully read each of the four texts provided. Then, using evidence from at least three of the texts, write a well-developed argument regarding whether or not the United States is still the land of opportunity. Clearly establish your claim, distinguish your claim from alternate or opposing claims, and use specific, relevant, and sufficient evidence from at least three of the texts to develop your argument. Do not simply summarize each text.
Be sure to:
Establish your claim regarding whether or not the United States is still the land of opportunity
Distinguish your claim from alternate or opposing claims
Use specific, relevant, and sufficient evidence from at least three of the texts to develop your argument
Identify each source that you reference by text number and line number(s) or graphic (for example: Text 1, line 4 or Text 2, graphic)
Texts:
Text 1 – “Canada’s Economic Mobility Creates a Land of Opportunity” Text 2 – “For Some Americans, This Is an Old Problem”
Text 3 – “Why Americans Seek Opportunity Abroad” Text 4 – “Opportunity is More Important Than Economic Mobility”

3. Introduction Paragraph
Introduce Topic: What is being debated?
Introduce both claims: for and against
Thesis: Position
General
Specific

4. Body Paragraph Topic Sentence Provide Example Explain Example
Connect Example to Topic/Thesis

5. Topic Sentence Provide Examples Explain Examples Connect Examples
Body Paragraphs
Which point will you be focusing on in this paragraph? How will this paragraph prove (or not prove) the U.S. is still the land of opportunity?
Topic Sentence
According to… (Use your transitional phrases!)
Provide Citations (Text 1, Lines 3,4)
Provide Examples
Make sure to fully explain what your example shows.
Explain Examples
Make your position clear. This must always conclude each paragraph so that the entire essay is focused on your argument.
Connect Examples

6. Essay Format Intro Body 1 Body 2 Body 3 Conclude Topic 2 Sides Thesis
Example
Your claim
Body 2
Body 3
Distinguish then back to your claim
Conclude
Restate Thesis
Summarize
Essay Format