1. Argumentative Writing
English 11
Romeo High School
Mrs. Kowalke

2. What is an Argumentative Essay?
An argumentative essay is an essay in which you take a position (agree or disagree) with a certain issue, using reasons to support your opinion.
If you agree with the stated issue, you are taking the affirmative side of the issue.
If you disagree with the stated issue, you are taking the negative side of the issue.

3. The Argumentative Essay
You may be asked a question like this: Stem cell research offers a potential cure for many fatal diseases. Many people oppose stem cell research because it involves using cells from human embryos. Should stem cell research be prohibited?

4. The Argumentative Essay
What is unique about an argumentative essay is that you do not just give reasons to support your point of view. You must also discuss the other side’s reasons and refute them. Define these key terms: refute (refutation), rebuttal, counter argument

5. Organizing Your Essay
Your essay should have a clear beginning, middle and end.
Your essay should acknowledge and address the counter argument to your position.
Your essay should refute the counter argument.
The order of these topics is somewhat flexible.

6. The Introduction
The introductory paragraph contains an explanation of the issue, which is a necessary part of an argumentative essay. You may also begin your argumentative essay with a more engaging introduction – with surprising statistics, for example, or a dramatic story.

7. The Introduction
If you choose to write an attention-getting introduction, you may need to explain the issue in a second introductory paragraph and write your thesis statement at the end of this (the second) paragraph.

8. Thesis Statement
A thesis statement often mentions the opposing point of view. Notice that the writer’s opinion is expressed in the main(independent) clause, and the opposing point of view is normally put in a subordinate structure. “Although there are certainly reasons to be cautious with stem cell research or any new technology (subordinate clause), its potential benefits far outweigh its dangers.” (main clause)

9. Addressing the Counter Argument
Use expressions like the following to introduce opposing points of view:
“Some people feel that the United States should change their healthcare plan.”
“Many think that genetically engineered crops are a grave danger to the environment.”
“Opponents to the plan believe…”
“Supporters of this policy advocate…”

10. Addressing the Counter Argument
Then, connect the opposing point of view to your own with transition signals of contrast. “Some people feel that the United States should change their healthcare plan; however, others feel that the government should stay out of the health care business.”

11. Examples
“Although many think that genetically engineered crops are a grave danger to the environment, such crops can alleviate world hunger and malnutrition.” “Smokers say that they have the right to smoke in spite of the fact that/ despite the fact that smoking will kill them.”

12. The Body Paragraphs
Support your thesis statement/position with specific examples and reasons to convince your reader/audience to take your side of the argument.
Don’t spend much time refuting the counter argument.
Spend the majority of your writing supporting your thesis/argument.

13. The Conclusion
As with any essay, you need to conclude your thoughts by summarizing your main points and re-stating your thesis.
In an argumentative essay, this is your last chance to convince your reader/audience that your position is correct.
Synthesize the information presented in the body of the essay so your reader is confident in taking your side of the argument.

14. In Simplest Terms…
An argumentative essay takes a position and maintains it is the correct position:
“I believe this, and I’m right.”
“Here is why I’m right.” x2, x3
“Others believe that, but they are wrong.”
“Here is why they are wrong.”

15. Conventions Write in the 3rd person (avoid personal pronouns)
“Schools should create separate classrooms for males and females.” NOT “I believe that schools should…” (active voice)
“Have you ever decided…?” INSTEAD “What would make one decide to…?”