1. Argumentative Essay Standard: ELACC6W1

2. What is it? An essay that is used to state and support claims written with clear reasons and relevant evidence.

3. Argumentative vs. Persuasive An argumentative essay states the facts based on the writer’s claim or thesis statement. A persuasive essay attempts to change the reader’s opinion on a topic.

4. What is a thesis statement? A thesis is a statement that can be disputed, confirmed, or unconfirmed. A writer includes this in the introduction to state his/her claim.

5. Argumentative vs. Persuasive An argumentative essay is written with a formal tone and in third person throughout. A persuasive essay is written with a more creative, personal tone and uses first person throughout.

6. Conclusion for an Argumentative Essay Your conclusion confirms that the evidence included proves the thesis statement. This should be a strong paragraph that restates the thesis and summarizes the body paragraphs.

7. Let’s look at an example. Should cell phones be allowed in schools?

8. Outline for Argumentative Essay General Topic: ___________________________________________________________ I. Introduction A. Background information to introduce issue: __________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ B. Thesis statement, or your position on the issue. (full sentence) ________________________________________________________________________ II. Body Paragraph One A. First supporting point (full sentence): _______________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ B. Evidence: support your point with facts and examples a. b. c. III. Body Paragraph Two A. Second supporting point (full sentence): _____________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ B. Evidence: support you point with facts and examples a. b. c. IV. Body Paragraph Three A. Third supporting point (full sentence): ______________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ B. Evidence: support your point with facts and examples a. b. c. V. Conclusion A. Summarize body paragraphs and supporting points and comment on significance of thesis. _______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ B. Restate thesis.

9. Topic Choices 1. Should all U.S. citizens be required by law to vote? 2. Is it important to eat healthy foods? 3. Should students be required to take P.E.? 4. Does a family only consist of blood relatives?