This resource has been aligned to the Common Core State Standards for states in which they have been adopted. If a state does not appear in the drop-down, CCSS alignments are forthcoming.
This lesson has been aligned to standards in the following states. If a state does not appear in the drop-down, standard alignments are not currently available for that state.
1. | Prepare for the game students play during Session 1. Divide the class into teams of four or five. Choose a prize for the winning team (e.g., extra time at recess, a chance to be first in the lunch line, a special snack, a certificate you create, or the chance to bring a special book home). If possible, arrange for another teacher or an administrator to come into your class at the end of the game to act as a judge. For Session 3, assign partners and pick a second prize for the group that wins the game. |
2. | Make one copy of the sheet for each group and pair of students. (You will use this sheet to record your observations while students are working during Session 1 and presenting during Session 4.) Make one copy of the , , and the for each student. Make enough copies of the sheet so that every student has a checklist for each set of partners that presents (see Session 4). |
3. | Make a two-column chart for Session 1. Write at the top of the chart. Write at the top of one column and at the top of the other. |
4. | If you do not have classroom computers with Internet access, arrange to spend one session in your school’s computer lab (see Session 3). Bookmark the on your classroom or lab computers, and make sure that it is working properly. |
5. | Preview the and bookmark it on your classroom computer. You will be sharing this with students during Session 2 and may want to arrange to use an LCD projector or a computer with a large screen. |
Students will
1. | Post the chart you created where students can see it (see Preparation, Step 3). Distribute sticky notes, and ask students to write their names on the notes. Call students up to the chart to place their notes in the column that expresses their opinion. |
2. | After everyone has had a chance to put their name on the chart, look at the results and discuss how people have different views about various topics and are entitled to their opinions. Give students a chance to share the reasons behind their choices. |
3. | Once students have shared, explain that sometimes when you believe in something, you want others to believe in it also and you might try to get them to change their minds. Ask students the following question: “Does anyone know the word for trying to convince someone to change his or her mind about something?” Elicit from students the word . |
4. | Explain to students that they are going to play a game that will help them understand how persuasive arguments work. |
5. | Follow these rules of the game: While students are working, there should be little interference from you. This is a time for students to discover what they already know about persuasive arguments. Use the handout as you listen in to groups and make notes about their arguments. This will help you see what students know and also provide examples to point out during Session 2 (see Step 4). |
Home/School Connection: Distribute Persuasion Is All Around You . Students are to find an example of a persuasive piece from the newspaper, television, radio, magazine, or billboards around town and be ready to report back to class during Session 2. Provide a selection of magazines or newspapers with advertisements for students who may not have materials at home. For English-language learners (ELLs), it may be helpful to show examples of advertisements and articles in newspapers and magazines.
1. | Begin by asking students to share their homework. You can have them share as a class, in their groups from the previous session, or in partners. |
2. | After students have shared, explain that they are going to get a chance to examine the arguments that they made during Session 1 to find out what strategies they already know how to use. |
3. | Pass out the to each student. Tell students that you are going to explain each definition through a PowerPoint presentation. |
4. | Read through each slide in the . Discuss the meaning and how students used those strategies in their arguments during Session 1. Use your observations and notes to help students make connections between their arguments and the persuasive strategies. It is likely your students used many of the strategies, and did not know it. For example, imagine the reward for the winning team was 10 extra minutes of recess. Here is one possible argument: “Our classmate Sarah finally got her cast taken off. She hasn’t been able to play outside for two months. For 60 days she’s had to go sit in the nurse’s office while we all played outside. Don’t you think it would be the greatest feeling for Sarah to have 10 extra minutes of recess the first week of getting her cast off?” This group is trying to appeal to the other students’ emotions. This is an example of . |
5. | As you discuss the examples from the previous session, have students write them in the box next to each definition on the Persuasive Strategy Definitions sheet to help them remember each meaning. |
Home/School Connection: Ask students to revisit their persuasive piece from Persuasion Is All Around You . This time they will use Check the Strategies to look for the persuasive strategies that the creator of the piece incorporated. Check for understanding with your ELLs and any special needs students. It may be helpful for them to talk through their persuasive piece with you or a peer before taking it home for homework. Arrange a time for any student who may not have the opportunity to complete assignments outside of school to work with you, a volunteer, or another adult at school on the assignment.
1. | Divide the class into groups of two or three students. Have each group member talk about the persuasive strategies they found in their piece. |
2. | After each group has had time to share with each other, go through each persuasive strategy and ask students to share any examples they found in their persuasive pieces with the whole class. |
3. | Explain to students that in this session they will be playing the game they played during Session 1 again; only this time they will be working with a partner to write their argument and there will be a different prize awarded to the winning team. |
4. | Share the with students and read through each category. Explain that you will be using this rubric to help evaluate their essays. Reassure students that if they have questions or if part of the rubric is unclear, you will help them during their conference. |
5. | Have students get together with the partners you have selected (see Preparation, Step 1). |
6. | Get students started on their persuasive writing by introducing them to the interactive . This online graphic organizer is a prewriting exercise that enables students to map out their arguments for a persuasive essay. or stance that they are taking on the issue. Challenge students to use the persuasive strategies discussed during Session 2 in their writing. Remind students to print their maps before exiting as they cannot save their work online. |
7. | Have students begin writing their persuasive essays, using their printed Persuasion Maps as a guide. To maintain the spirit of the game, allow students to write their essays with their partner. Partners can either write each paragraph together taking turns being the scribe or each can take responsibility for different paragraphs in the essay. If partners decide to work on different parts of the essay, monitor them closely and help them to write transition sentences from one paragraph to the next. It may take students two sessions to complete their writing. |
8. | Meet with partners as they are working on their essays. During conferences you can: |
1. | During this session, partners will present their written argument to the class. Before students present, hand out the sheet. This checklist is the same one they used for homework after Session 2. Direct students to mark off the strategies they hear in each presentation. |
2. | Use the sheet to record your observations. |
3. | After each set of partners presents, ask the audience to share any persuasive strategies they heard in the argument. |
4. | After all partners have presented, have students vote for the argument other than their own that they felt was most convincing. |
5. | Tally the votes and award the prize to the winning team. To end this session, ask students to discuss something new they have learned about persuasive arguments and something they want to work on to become better at persuasive arguments. |
The Persuasion Map is an interactive graphic organizer that enables students to map out their arguments for a persuasive essay or debate.
This interactive tool allows students to create Venn diagrams that contain two or three overlapping circles, enabling them to organize their information logically.
Miscellaneous
You'll no doubt have to write a number of argumentative essays in both high school and college, but what, exactly, is an argumentative essay and how do you write the best one possible? Let's take a look.
A great argumentative essay always combines the same basic elements: approaching an argument from a rational perspective, researching sources, supporting your claims using facts rather than opinion, and articulating your reasoning into the most cogent and reasoned points. Argumentative essays are great building blocks for all sorts of research and rhetoric, so your teachers will expect you to master the technique before long.
But if this sounds daunting, never fear! We'll show how an argumentative essay differs from other kinds of papers, how to research and write them, how to pick an argumentative essay topic, and where to find example essays. So let's get started.
There are two basic requirements for any and all essays: to state a claim (a thesis statement) and to support that claim with evidence.
Though every essay is founded on these two ideas, there are several different types of essays, differentiated by the style of the writing, how the writer presents the thesis, and the types of evidence used to support the thesis statement.
Essays can be roughly divided into four different types:
#1: Argumentative #2: Persuasive #3: Expository #4: Analytical
So let's look at each type and what the differences are between them before we focus the rest of our time to argumentative essays.
Argumentative essays are what this article is all about, so let's talk about them first.
An argumentative essay attempts to convince a reader to agree with a particular argument (the writer's thesis statement). The writer takes a firm stand one way or another on a topic and then uses hard evidence to support that stance.
An argumentative essay seeks to prove to the reader that one argument —the writer's argument— is the factually and logically correct one. This means that an argumentative essay must use only evidence-based support to back up a claim , rather than emotional or philosophical reasoning (which is often allowed in other types of essays). Thus, an argumentative essay has a burden of substantiated proof and sources , whereas some other types of essays (namely persuasive essays) do not.
You can write an argumentative essay on any topic, so long as there's room for argument. Generally, you can use the same topics for both a persuasive essay or an argumentative one, so long as you support the argumentative essay with hard evidence.
Example topics of an argumentative essay:
The next three types of essays are not argumentative essays, but you may have written them in school. We're going to cover them so you know what not to do for your argumentative essay.
Persuasive essays are similar to argumentative essays, so it can be easy to get them confused. But knowing what makes an argumentative essay different than a persuasive essay can often mean the difference between an excellent grade and an average one.
Persuasive essays seek to persuade a reader to agree with the point of view of the writer, whether that point of view is based on factual evidence or not. The writer has much more flexibility in the evidence they can use, with the ability to use moral, cultural, or opinion-based reasoning as well as factual reasoning to persuade the reader to agree the writer's side of a given issue.
Instead of being forced to use "pure" reason as one would in an argumentative essay, the writer of a persuasive essay can manipulate or appeal to the reader's emotions. So long as the writer attempts to steer the readers into agreeing with the thesis statement, the writer doesn't necessarily need hard evidence in favor of the argument.
Often, you can use the same topics for both a persuasive essay or an argumentative one—the difference is all in the approach and the evidence you present.
Example topics of a persuasive essay:
An expository essay is typically a short essay in which the writer explains an idea, issue, or theme , or discusses the history of a person, place, or idea.
This is typically a fact-forward essay with little argument or opinion one way or the other.
Example topics of an expository essay:
An analytical essay seeks to delve into the deeper meaning of a text or work of art, or unpack a complicated idea . These kinds of essays closely interpret a source and look into its meaning by analyzing it at both a macro and micro level.
This type of analysis can be augmented by historical context or other expert or widely-regarded opinions on the subject, but is mainly supported directly through the original source (the piece or art or text being analyzed) .
Example topics of an analytical essay:
There are many different types of essay and, over time, you'll be able to master them all.
The average argumentative essay is between three to five pages, and will require at least three or four separate sources with which to back your claims . As for the essay topic , you'll most often be asked to write an argumentative essay in an English class on a "general" topic of your choice, ranging the gamut from science, to history, to literature.
But while the topics of an argumentative essay can span several different fields, the structure of an argumentative essay is always the same: you must support a claim—a claim that can reasonably have multiple sides—using multiple sources and using a standard essay format (which we'll talk about later on).
This is why many argumentative essay topics begin with the word "should," as in:
These topics all have at least two sides of the argument: Yes or no. And you must support the side you choose with evidence as to why your side is the correct one.
But there are also plenty of other ways to frame an argumentative essay as well:
Though these are worded differently than the first three, you're still essentially forced to pick between two sides of an issue: yes or no, for or against, benefit or detriment. Though your argument might not fall entirely into one side of the divide or another—for instance, you could claim that social media has positively impacted some aspects of modern life while being a detriment to others—your essay should still support one side of the argument above all. Your final stance would be that overall , social media is beneficial or overall , social media is harmful.
If your argument is one that is mostly text-based or backed by a single source (e.g., "How does Salinger show that Holden Caulfield is an unreliable narrator?" or "Does Gatsby personify the American Dream?"), then it's an analytical essay, rather than an argumentative essay. An argumentative essay will always be focused on more general topics so that you can use multiple sources to back up your claims.
So you know the basic idea behind an argumentative essay, but what topic should you write about?
Again, almost always, you'll be asked to write an argumentative essay on a free topic of your choice, or you'll be asked to select between a few given topics . If you're given complete free reign of topics, then it'll be up to you to find an essay topic that no only appeals to you, but that you can turn into an A+ argumentative essay.
What makes a "good" argumentative essay topic depends on both the subject matter and your personal interest —it can be hard to give your best effort on something that bores you to tears! But it can also be near impossible to write an argumentative essay on a topic that has no room for debate.
As we said earlier, a good argumentative essay topic will be one that has the potential to reasonably go in at least two directions—for or against, yes or no, and why . For example, it's pretty hard to write an argumentative essay on whether or not people should be allowed to murder one another—not a whole lot of debate there for most people!—but writing an essay for or against the death penalty has a lot more wiggle room for evidence and argument.
A good topic is also one that can be substantiated through hard evidence and relevant sources . So be sure to pick a topic that other people have studied (or at least studied elements of) so that you can use their data in your argument. For example, if you're arguing that it should be mandatory for all middle school children to play a sport, you might have to apply smaller scientific data points to the larger picture you're trying to justify. There are probably several studies you could cite on the benefits of physical activity and the positive effect structure and teamwork has on young minds, but there's probably no study you could use where a group of scientists put all middle-schoolers in one jurisdiction into a mandatory sports program (since that's probably never happened). So long as your evidence is relevant to your point and you can extrapolate from it to form a larger whole, you can use it as a part of your resource material.
And if you need ideas on where to get started, or just want to see sample argumentative essay topics, then check out these links for hundreds of potential argumentative essay topics.
101 Persuasive (or Argumentative) Essay and Speech Topics
301 Prompts for Argumentative Writing
Top 50 Ideas for Argumentative/Persuasive Essay Writing
[Note: some of these say "persuasive essay topics," but just remember that the same topic can often be used for both a persuasive essay and an argumentative essay; the difference is in your writing style and the evidence you use to support your claims.]
KO! Find that one argumentative essay topic you can absolutely conquer.
Argumentative Essays are composed of four main elements:
If you're familiar with essay writing in general, then you're also probably familiar with the five paragraph essay structure . This structure is a simple tool to show how one outlines an essay and breaks it down into its component parts, although it can be expanded into as many paragraphs as you want beyond the core five.
The standard argumentative essay is often 3-5 pages, which will usually mean a lot more than five paragraphs, but your overall structure will look the same as a much shorter essay.
An argumentative essay at its simplest structure will look like:
Now let's unpack each of these paragraph types to see how they work (with examples!), what goes into them, and why.
Your first task is to introduce the reader to the topic at hand so they'll be prepared for your claim. Give a little background information, set the scene, and give the reader some stakes so that they care about the issue you're going to discuss.
Next, you absolutely must have a position on an argument and make that position clear to the readers. It's not an argumentative essay unless you're arguing for a specific claim, and this claim will be your thesis statement.
Your thesis CANNOT be a mere statement of fact (e.g., "Washington DC is the capital of the United States"). Your thesis must instead be an opinion which can be backed up with evidence and has the potential to be argued against (e.g., "New York should be the capital of the United States").
These are your body paragraphs in which you give the reasons why your argument is the best one and back up this reasoning with concrete evidence .
The argument supporting the thesis of an argumentative essay should be one that can be supported by facts and evidence, rather than personal opinion or cultural or religious mores.
For example, if you're arguing that New York should be the new capital of the US, you would have to back up that fact by discussing the factual contrasts between New York and DC in terms of location, population, revenue, and laws. You would then have to talk about the precedents for what makes for a good capital city and why New York fits the bill more than DC does.
Your argument can't simply be that a lot of people think New York is the best city ever and that you agree.
In addition to using concrete evidence, you always want to keep the tone of your essay passionate, but impersonal . Even though you're writing your argument from a single opinion, don't use first person language—"I think," "I feel," "I believe,"—to present your claims. Doing so is repetitive, since by writing the essay you're already telling the audience what you feel, and using first person language weakens your writing voice.
For example,
"I think that Washington DC is no longer suited to be the capital city of the United States."
"Washington DC is no longer suited to be the capital city of the United States."
The second statement sounds far stronger and more analytical.
Even without a counter argument, you can make a pretty persuasive claim, but a counterargument will round out your essay into one that is much more persuasive and substantial.
By anticipating an argument against your claim and taking the initiative to counter it, you're allowing yourself to get ahead of the game. This way, you show that you've given great thought to all sides of the issue before choosing your position, and you demonstrate in multiple ways how yours is the more reasoned and supported side.
This paragraph is where you re-state your argument and summarize why it's the best claim.
Briefly touch on your supporting evidence and voila! A finished argumentative essay.
Your essay should have just as awesome a skeleton as this plesiosaur does. (In other words: a ridiculously awesome skeleton)
It always helps to have an example to learn from. I've written a full 5-paragraph argumentative essay here. Look at how I state my thesis in paragraph 1, give supporting evidence in paragraphs 2 and 3, address a counterargument in paragraph 4, and conclude in paragraph 5.
Topic: Is it possible to maintain conflicting loyalties?
Paragraph 1
It is almost impossible to go through life without encountering a situation where your loyalties to different people or causes come into conflict with each other. Maybe you have a loving relationship with your sister, but she disagrees with your decision to join the army, or you find yourself torn between your cultural beliefs and your scientific ones. These conflicting loyalties can often be maintained for a time, but as examples from both history and psychological theory illustrate, sooner or later, people have to make a choice between competing loyalties, as no one can maintain a conflicting loyalty or belief system forever.
The first two sentences set the scene and give some hypothetical examples and stakes for the reader to care about.
The third sentence finishes off the intro with the thesis statement, making very clear how the author stands on the issue ("people have to make a choice between competing loyalties, as no one can maintain a conflicting loyalty or belief system forever." )
Paragraphs 2 and 3
Psychological theory states that human beings are not equipped to maintain conflicting loyalties indefinitely and that attempting to do so leads to a state called "cognitive dissonance." Cognitive dissonance theory is the psychological idea that people undergo tremendous mental stress or anxiety when holding contradictory beliefs, values, or loyalties (Festinger, 1957). Even if human beings initially hold a conflicting loyalty, they will do their best to find a mental equilibrium by making a choice between those loyalties—stay stalwart to a belief system or change their beliefs. One of the earliest formal examples of cognitive dissonance theory comes from Leon Festinger's When Prophesy Fails . Members of an apocalyptic cult are told that the end of the world will occur on a specific date and that they alone will be spared the Earth's destruction. When that day comes and goes with no apocalypse, the cult members face a cognitive dissonance between what they see and what they've been led to believe (Festinger, 1956). Some choose to believe that the cult's beliefs are still correct, but that the Earth was simply spared from destruction by mercy, while others choose to believe that they were lied to and that the cult was fraudulent all along. Both beliefs cannot be correct at the same time, and so the cult members are forced to make their choice.
But even when conflicting loyalties can lead to potentially physical, rather than just mental, consequences, people will always make a choice to fall on one side or other of a dividing line. Take, for instance, Nicolaus Copernicus, a man born and raised in Catholic Poland (and educated in Catholic Italy). Though the Catholic church dictated specific scientific teachings, Copernicus' loyalty to his own observations and scientific evidence won out over his loyalty to his country's government and belief system. When he published his heliocentric model of the solar system--in opposition to the geocentric model that had been widely accepted for hundreds of years (Hannam, 2011)-- Copernicus was making a choice between his loyalties. In an attempt t o maintain his fealty both to the established system and to what he believed, h e sat on his findings for a number of years (Fantoli, 1994). But, ultimately, Copernicus made the choice to side with his beliefs and observations above all and published his work for the world to see (even though, in doing so, he risked both his reputation and personal freedoms).
These two paragraphs provide the reasons why the author supports the main argument and uses substantiated sources to back those reasons.
The paragraph on cognitive dissonance theory gives both broad supporting evidence and more narrow, detailed supporting evidence to show why the thesis statement is correct not just anecdotally but also scientifically and psychologically. First, we see why people in general have a difficult time accepting conflicting loyalties and desires and then how this applies to individuals through the example of the cult members from the Dr. Festinger's research.
The next paragraph continues to use more detailed examples from history to provide further evidence of why the thesis that people cannot indefinitely maintain conflicting loyalties is true.
Paragraph 4
Some will claim that it is possible to maintain conflicting beliefs or loyalties permanently, but this is often more a matter of people deluding themselves and still making a choice for one side or the other, rather than truly maintaining loyalty to both sides equally. For example, Lancelot du Lac typifies a person who claims to maintain a balanced loyalty between to two parties, but his attempt to do so fails (as all attempts to permanently maintain conflicting loyalties must). Lancelot tells himself and others that he is equally devoted to both King Arthur and his court and to being Queen Guinevere's knight (Malory, 2008). But he can neither be in two places at once to protect both the king and queen, nor can he help but let his romantic feelings for the queen to interfere with his duties to the king and the kingdom. Ultimately, he and Queen Guinevere give into their feelings for one another and Lancelot—though he denies it—chooses his loyalty to her over his loyalty to Arthur. This decision plunges the kingdom into a civil war, ages Lancelot prematurely, and ultimately leads to Camelot's ruin (Raabe, 1987). Though Lancelot claimed to have been loyal to both the king and the queen, this loyalty was ultimately in conflict, and he could not maintain it.
Here we have the acknowledgement of a potential counter-argument and the evidence as to why it isn't true.
The argument is that some people (or literary characters) have asserted that they give equal weight to their conflicting loyalties. The refutation is that, though some may claim to be able to maintain conflicting loyalties, they're either lying to others or deceiving themselves. The paragraph shows why this is true by providing an example of this in action.
Paragraph 5
Whether it be through literature or history, time and time again, people demonstrate the challenges of trying to manage conflicting loyalties and the inevitable consequences of doing so. Though belief systems are malleable and will often change over time, it is not possible to maintain two mutually exclusive loyalties or beliefs at once. In the end, people always make a choice, and loyalty for one party or one side of an issue will always trump loyalty to the other.
The concluding paragraph summarizes the essay, touches on the evidence presented, and re-states the thesis statement.
Writing the best argumentative essay is all about the preparation, so let's talk steps:
If you have the option to pick your own argumentative essay topic (which you most likely will), then choose one or two topics you find the most intriguing or that you have a vested interest in and do some preliminary research on both sides of the debate.
Do an open internet search just to see what the general chatter is on the topic and what the research trends are.
Did your preliminary reading influence you to pick a side or change your side? Without diving into all the scholarly articles at length, do you believe there's enough evidence to support your claim? Have there been scientific studies? Experiments? Does a noted scholar in the field agree with you? If not, you may need to pick another topic or side of the argument to support.
Now's the time to pick the side of the argument you feel you can support the best and summarize your main point into your thesis statement.
Your thesis will be the basis of your entire essay, so make sure you know which side you're on, that you've stated it clearly, and that you stick by your argument throughout the entire essay .
You've taken a gander at what the internet at large has to say on your argument, but now's the time to actually read those sources and take notes.
Check scholarly journals online at Google Scholar , the Directory of Open Access Journals , or JStor . You can also search individual university or school libraries and websites to see what kinds of academic articles you can access for free. Keep track of your important quotes and page numbers and put them somewhere that's easy to find later.
And don't forget to check your school or local libraries as well!
Follow the five-paragraph outline structure from the previous section.
Fill in your topic, your reasons, and your supporting evidence into each of the categories.
Before you begin to flesh out the essay, take a look at what you've got. Is your thesis statement in the first paragraph? Is it clear? Is your argument logical? Does your supporting evidence support your reasoning?
By outlining your essay, you streamline your process and take care of any logic gaps before you dive headfirst into the writing. This will save you a lot of grief later on if you need to change your sources or your structure, so don't get too trigger-happy and skip this step.
Now that you've laid out exactly what you'll need for your essay and where, it's time to fill in all the gaps by writing it out.
Take it one step at a time and expand your ideas into complete sentences and substantiated claims. It may feel daunting to turn an outline into a complete draft, but just remember that you've already laid out all the groundwork; now you're just filling in the gaps.
If you have the time before deadline, give yourself a day or two (or even just an hour!) away from your essay . Looking it over with fresh eyes will allow you to see errors, both minor and major, that you likely would have missed had you tried to edit when it was still raw.
Take a first pass over the entire essay and try your best to ignore any minor spelling or grammar mistakes—you're just looking at the big picture right now. Does it make sense as a whole? Did the essay succeed in making an argument and backing that argument up logically? (Do you feel persuaded?)
If not, go back and make notes so that you can fix it for your final draft.
Once you've made your revisions to the overall structure, mark all your small errors and grammar problems so you can fix them in the next draft.
Use the notes you made on the rough draft and go in and hack and smooth away until you're satisfied with the final result.
A checklist for your final draft:
Once you've brought that final draft to a perfect polish and turned in your assignment, you're done! Go you!
Be prepared and ♪ you'll never go hungry again ♪, *cough*, or struggle with your argumentative essay-writing again. (Walt Disney Studios)
Theory is all well and good, but examples are key. Just to get you started on what a fully-fleshed out argumentative essay looks like, let's see some examples in action.
Check out these two argumentative essay examples on the use of landmines and freons (and note the excellent use of concrete sources to back up their arguments!).
The Use of Landmines
A Shattered Sky
At first, writing an argumentative essay may seem like a monstrous hurdle to overcome, but with the proper preparation and understanding, you'll be able to knock yours out of the park.
Remember the differences between a persuasive essay and an argumentative one, make sure your thesis is clear, and double-check that your supporting evidence is both relevant to your point and well-sourced . Pick your topic, do your research, make your outline, and fill in the gaps. Before you know it, you'll have yourself an A+ argumentative essay there, my friend.
Now you know the ins and outs of an argumentative essay, but how comfortable are you writing in other styles? Learn more about the four writing styles and when it makes sense to use each .
Understand how to make an argument, but still having trouble organizing your thoughts? Check out our guide to three popular essay formats and choose which one is right for you.
Ready to make your case, but not sure what to write about? We've created a list of 50 potential argumentative essay topics to spark your imagination.
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Have you ever been asked to explain your opinion on a controversial issue?
Proving your point in an argumentative essay can be challenging, unless you are using a proven formula.
In the image below, you can see a recommended structure for argumentative essays. It starts with the topic sentence, which establishes the main idea of the essay. Next, this hypothesis is developed in the development stage. Then, the rebuttal, or the refutal of the main counter argument or arguments. Then, again, development of the rebuttal. This is followed by an example, and ends with a summary. This is a very basic structure, but it gives you a bird-eye-view of how a proper argumentative essay can be built.
Writing an argumentative essay (for a class, a news outlet, or just for fun) can help you improve your understanding of an issue and sharpen your thinking on the matter. Using researched facts and data, you can explain why you or others think the way you do, even while other reasonable people disagree.
An argumentative essay is an explanatory essay that takes a side.
Instead of appealing to emotion and personal experience to change the reader’s mind, an argumentative essay uses logic and well-researched factual information to explain why the thesis in question is the most reasonable opinion on the matter.
Over several paragraphs or pages, the author systematically walks through:
At the end, the author leaves the decision up to the reader, trusting that the case they’ve made will do the work of changing the reader’s mind. Even if the reader’s opinion doesn’t change, they come away from the essay with a greater understanding of the perspective presented — and perhaps a better understanding of their original opinion.
All of that might make it seem like writing an argumentative essay is way harder than an emotionally-driven persuasive essay — but if you’re like me and much more comfortable spouting facts and figures than making impassioned pleas, you may find that an argumentative essay is easier to write.
Plus, the process of researching an argumentative essay means you can check your assumptions and develop an opinion that’s more based in reality than what you originally thought. I know for sure that my opinions need to be fact checked — don’t yours?
So how exactly do we write the argumentative essay?
First, gain a clear understanding of what exactly an argumentative essay is. To formulate a proper topic sentence, you have to be clear on your topic, and to explore it through research.
Students have difficulty starting an essay because the whole task seems intimidating, and they are afraid of spending too much time on the topic sentence. Experienced writers, however, know that there is no set time to spend on figuring out your topic. It's a real exploration that is based to a large extent on intuition.
Use this checklist to tackle your essay one step at a time:
To start, you need to identify an issue that well-informed people have varying opinions on. Here, it’s helpful to think of one core topic and how it intersects with another (or several other) issues. That intersection is where hot takes and reasonable (or unreasonable) opinions abound.
I find it helpful to stage the issue as a question.
For example:
Is it better to legislate the minimum size of chicken enclosures or to outlaw the sale of eggs from chickens who don’t have enough space?
Should snow removal policies focus more on effectively keeping roads clear for traffic or the environmental impacts of snow removal methods?
Once you have your arguable question ready, start researching the basic facts and specific opinions and arguments on the issue. Do your best to stay focused on gathering information that is directly relevant to your topic. Depending on what your essay is for, you may reference academic studies, government reports, or newspaper articles.
Research your opposition and the facts that support their viewpoint as much as you research your own position . You’ll need to address your opposition in your essay, so you’ll want to know their argument from the inside out.
You likely started with an inclination toward one side or the other, but your research should ultimately shape your perspective. So once you’ve completed the research, nail down your opinion and start articulating the what and why of your take.
What: I think it’s better to outlaw selling eggs from chickens whose enclosures are too small.
Why: Because if you regulate the enclosure size directly, egg producers outside of the government’s jurisdiction could ship eggs into your territory and put nearby egg producers out of business by offering better prices because they don’t have the added cost of larger enclosures.
This is an early form of your thesis and the basic logic of your argument. You’ll want to iterate on this a few times and develop a one-sentence statement that sums up the thesis of your essay.
Thesis: Outlawing the sale of eggs from chickens with cramped living spaces is better for business than regulating the size of chicken enclosures.
Now that you’ve articulated your thesis , spell out the counterargument(s) as well. Putting your opposition’s take into words will help you throughout the rest of the essay-writing process. (You can start by choosing the counter argument option with Wordtune Spices .)
There may be one main counterargument to articulate, or several. Write them all out and start thinking about how you’ll use evidence to address each of them or show why your argument is still the best option.
You did all of that research for a reason. Now’s the time to use it.
Hopefully, you kept detailed notes in a document, complete with links and titles of all your source material. Go through your research document and copy the evidence for your argument and your opposition’s into another document.
List the main points of your argument. Then, below each point, paste the evidence that backs them up.
If you’re writing about chicken enclosures, maybe you found evidence that shows the spread of disease among birds kept in close quarters is worse than among birds who have more space. Or maybe you found information that says eggs from free-range chickens are more flavorful or nutritious. Put that information next to the appropriate part of your argument.
Repeat the process with your opposition’s argument: What information did you find that supports your opposition? Paste it beside your opposition’s argument.
You could also put information here that refutes your opposition, but organize it in a way that clearly tells you — at a glance — that the information disproves their point.
Counterargument: Outlawing the sale of eggs from chickens with too small enclosures will negatively affect prices and sales.
BUT: Sicknesses like avian flu spread more easily through small enclosures and could cause a shortage that would drive up egg prices naturally, so ensuring larger enclosures is still a better policy for consumers over the long term.
As you organize your research and see the evidence all together, start thinking through the best way to order your points.
Will it be better to present your argument all at once or to break it up with opposition claims you can quickly refute? Would some points set up other points well? Does a more complicated point require that the reader understands a simpler point first?
Play around and rearrange your notes to see how your essay might flow one way or another.
Is your brain buzzing yet? At this point in the process, it can be helpful to take out a notebook or open a fresh document and dump whatever you’re thinking on the page.
Where should your essay start? What ground-level information do you need to provide your readers before you can dive into the issue?
Use your organized evidence document from step 3 to think through your argument from beginning to end, and determine the structure of your essay.
As you think through your argument and examine your evidence document, consider which structure will serve your argument best. Sketch out an outline to give yourself a map to follow in the writing process. You could also rearrange your evidence document again to match your outline, so it will be easy to find what you need when you start writing.
You have an outline and an organized document with all your points and evidence lined up and ready. Now you just have to write your essay.
In your first draft, focus on getting your ideas on the page. Your wording may not be perfect (whose is?), but you know what you’re trying to say — so even if you’re overly wordy and taking too much space to say what you need to say, put those words on the page.
Follow your outline, and draw from that evidence document to flesh out each point of your argument. Explain what the evidence means for your argument and your opposition. Connect the dots for your readers so they can follow you, point by point, and understand what you’re trying to say.
1. Any background information your reader needs in order to understand the issue in question.
2. Evidence for both your argument and the counterargument(s). This shows that you’ve done your homework and builds trust with your reader, while also setting you up to make a more convincing argument. (If you find gaps in your research while you’re writing, Wordtune can help.
3. A conclusion that sums up your overall argument and evidence — and leaves the reader with an understanding of the issue and its significance. This sort of conclusion brings your essay to a strong ending that doesn’t waste readers’ time, but actually adds value to your case.
The hard work is done: you have a first draft. Now, let’s fine tune your writing.
I like to step away from what I’ve written for a day (or at least a night of sleep) before attempting to revise. It helps me approach clunky phrases and rough transitions with fresh eyes. If you don’t have that luxury, just get away from your computer for a few minutes — use the bathroom, do some jumping jacks, eat an apple — and then come back and read through your piece.
As you revise, make sure you …
The best way to introduce a convincing argument is to provide a strong thesis statement . These are the words I usually use to start an argumentative essay:
When refuting an opposing concept, use:
Are you convinced by your own argument yet? Ready to brave the next get-together where everyone’s talking like they know something about intermittent fasting , chicken enclosures , or snow removal policies?
Now if someone asks you to explain your evidence-based but controversial opinion, you can hand them your essay and ask them to report back after they’ve read it.
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Home » Literacy Lines » Teaching Basic Argument Writing Components
Over the past two years since Keys to Literacy published my Keys to Argument Writing professional development module and the associated training book Keys to Content Writing I am often asked by teachers advice for how to teach argument writing (and opinion for elementary grades). The place to start is to introduce students to the structure of argument/opinion writing.
The first standard of the Common Core Writing Standards is devoted to argument writing. Here is the anchor standard from which Standard #1 for grades K through 12 are based:
WS #1: Write opinions/arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.
Sometimes argument writing seems very similar to informational writing (Common Core Writing Standard #2). They both incorporate information, and they have similar basic text structures: They must begin with an introduction that states the topic and end with a conclusion. However, their aims are different and the body of an argument organizes information in a different way.
The purpose of informational writing is to examine and explain previously learned information or new information, and this information is typically organized into paragraphs of main ideas that are “chunked” into topics and sub-topics. That is, the information is presented in categories/sections. The purpose of argument writing is to convince a reader that a point of view is valid or to persuade the reader to take a specific action. Information is used, but it is organized based on these major components of an argument: claim, reason, evidence, counter-claim, and rebuttal.
Here are simple descriptions of these components to share with your students:
And here’s an even simpler set of questions students can ask themselves to help remember each component:
The claim is typically stated in the introduction, and restated again in the conclusion. The information in the body paragraphs is organized as a series of reasons supported by evidence. For arguments that include a counter-claim and rebuttal (a requirement for students in grade seven and beyond), there will be additional paragraphs that represent the counter-claim and rebuttal.
Keys to Literacy has posted a nine-minute video recorded during a teacher training in which I explain the major components of an argument and offer suggestions for teaching them to students. The video, along with several other training video clips is available to the public for free at the Free Resources section of the Keys to Literacy website.
At the same resource site you will find a teacher’s checklist and rubric for giving feedback to students about their argument writing that include items related to the text structure of an argument writing piece.
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I have found your lectures and instructions very helpful. Do you have any guidelines on Exposition?
Visit our free videos and webinars where you will find several items related to writing.
What components are there into the claim and evidence rubric?
Some of the things to look for in student argument writing are: Is the claim (position taken) supported with logical reasons and relevant evidence? Are the reasons and evidence presented in an organized way? Is the evidence from sources integrated effectively? Is the rebuttal supported with logical reasons and evidence? Are transitions used to link and to create cohesion among claim, reasons and evidence? Is there a formal style and an objective tone established and maintained throughout the piece?
That was a super helpful resource! I used it to write a paragraph essay on “Elements of Argument”.
Thank you for explaining an argumentive essay. and supportive of me getting started on this essay.
Thanks for the tips..really helpful in writing my assignment in Academic English.
May you send me an example of an argumentative essay and other essay and their example please.
This site has examples of argument essays: https://www.collegeessay.org/blog/argumentative-essay-examples
Thank you for better clarity and better simplicity
Now I understand how to write an argumentative essay I found it so easier
We are closely monitoring the covid-19 situation and the impact on our employees and the schools where we provide professional development., during this time period when onsite, face-to-face training and coaching is not possible, we offer multiple options for accessing our literacy pd content and instructional practices., if you are a current or new partner, explore our website or contact us to learn more about:.
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The argumentative essay is a staple in university courses, and writing this style of essay is a key skill for students across multiple disciplines. Here’s what you need to know to write an effective and compelling argumentative essay.
An argumentative essay takes a stance on an issue and presents an argument to defend that stance with the intent of persuading the reader to agree. It generally requires extensive research into a topic so that you have a deep grasp of its subtleties and nuances, are able to take a position on the issue, and can make a detailed and logical case for one side or the other.
It’s not enough to merely have an opinion on an issue—you have to present points to justify your opinion, often using data and other supporting evidence.
When you are assigned an argumentative essay, you will typically be asked to take a position, usually in response to a question, and mount an argument for it. The question can be two-sided or open-ended, as in the examples provided below.
Examples of argumentative essay prompts:
Two-sided Question
Should completing a certain number of volunteer hours be a requirement to graduate from high school? Support your argument with evidence.
Open-ended Question
What is the most significant impact that social media has had on this generation of young people?
Once again, it’s important to remember that you’re not just conveying facts or information in an argumentative essay. In the course of researching your topic, you should develop a stance on the issue. Your essay will then express that stance and attempt to persuade the reader of its legitimacy and correctness through discussion, assessment, and evaluation.
Although you are advancing a particular viewpoint, your argumentative essay must flow from a position of objectivity. Your argument should evolve thoughtfully and rationally from evidence and logic rather than emotion.
There are two main models that provide a good starting point for crafting your essay: the Toulmin model and the Rogerian model.
This model is commonly used in academic essays. It mounts an argument through the following four steps:
As an example of how to put the Toulmin model into practice, here’s how you might structure an argument about the impact of devoting public funding to building low-income housing.
This model is also frequently used within academia, and it also builds an argument using four steps, although in a slightly different fashion:
The persuasiveness of this model owes to the fact that it offers a balanced view of the issue and attempts to find a compromise. For this reason, it works especially well for topics that are polarizing and where it’s important to demonstrate that you’re arguing in good faith.
To illustrate, here’s how you could argue that smartphones should be permitted in classrooms.
It’s not essential to adhere strictly to one model or the other—you can borrow elements from both models to structure your essay. However, no matter which model of argumentation you choose, your essay will need to have an outline that effectively presents and develops your position.
A clear and straightforward structure works best for argumentative essays since you want to make it easy for your reader to understand your position and follow your arguments. The traditional essay outline comprises an introductory paragraph that announces your thesis statement, body paragraphs that unfold your argument point by point, and a concluding paragraph that summarizes your thesis and supporting points.
Introductory paragraph
This paragraph provides an overview of your topic and any background information that your readers will need in order to understand the context and your position. It generally concludes with an explicit statement of your position on the topic, which is known as your thesis statement.
Over the last decade, smartphones have transformed nearly every aspect of our lives, socially, culturally, and personally. They are now incorporated into almost every facet of daily life, and this includes making their way into classrooms. There are many educators who view smartphones with suspicion and see them as a threat to the sanctity of the classroom. Although there are reasons to regard smartphones with caution, there are ways to use them responsibly to teach and educate the next generation of young minds. Indeed, the value they hold as teaching tools is nearly unlimited: as a way to teach digital literacy, to reach students through a medium that is familiar and fun for them, and to provide a nimble and adaptable learning environment.
Body paragraphs
Most argumentative essays have at least three body paragraphs that lay out the supporting points in favor of your argument. Each paragraph should open with a topic sentence that presents a separate point that is then fleshed out and backed up by research, facts, figures, data, and other evidence. Remember that your aim in writing an argumentative essay is to convince or persuade your reader, and your body paragraphs are where you present your most compelling pieces of information in order to do just that.
The body of your essay is also where you should address any opposing arguments and make your case against them, either disproving them or stating the reasons why you disagree. Responding to potential rebuttals strengthens your argument and builds your credibility with your readers.
A frequent objection that teachers have to smartphones in the classroom is that students use them to socialize when they should be learning. This view overlooks the fact that students are using smartphones to connect with each other and this is a valuable skill that should be encouraged, not discouraged, in the classroom. A 2014 study demonstrated the benefits of providing students with individual smartphones. Sanctioned smartphone use in the classroom proved to be of particular importance in improving educational outcomes for low-income and at-risk students. What’s more, learning apps have been developed specifically to take advantage of the potential of smartphones to reach learners of various levels and backgrounds, and many offer the ability to customize the method and delivery of lessons to individual learner preferences. This shows that the untapped potential of smartphones is huge, and many teachers would do well to consider incorporating them into their classrooms.
Your concluding paragraph wraps up your essay by restating your thesis and recapping the arguments you presented in your body paragraphs. No new information should be introduced in your conclusion, however, you may consider shifting the lens of your argument to make a comment on how this issue affects the world at large or you personally, always keeping in mind that objectivity and relevance are your guiding principles.
Smartphones have a growing place in the world of education, and despite the presence of legitimate concerns about their use, their value as teaching tools has been clearly established. With more and more of our lives going digital and with the growing emphasis on offering distance learning as an option, educators with an eye to the future won't wait to embrace smartphones and find ways to use them to their fullest effect. As much time and space as we could devote to weighing the pros and cons of smartphones, the fact is that they are not going to disappear from our lives, and our best bet is to develop their, and our students', potential.
Your argumentative essay starts with an introductory paragraph. This paragraph provides an overview of your topic and any background information that your readers will need in order to understand the context and your position.
Like any traditional essay, the argumentative essay consists of three parts:
There are do's and don'ts in argumentative writing. This article summarizes some of them well - you should, for example, avoid coming to an argument based on feelings, without any evidence. Everything you say needs to be backed up by evidence, unless you are the renowned expert in the field.
Yes, you can start your argumentative essay with a question or with a thesis statement. Or you can do both - ask a question and then immediately answer it with a statement.
There are contrasting views on that. In some situations it can make sense to end your argumentative essay with a question - for example, when you want to create room for further discussions or want the reader to leave thinking about the question.
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Our comprehensive ELA curriculum, CommonLit360 , has highly-engaging argumentative units that put the crucial skill of argumentative writing at the forefront of each lesson.
These units are designed to capture student interest in a relevant, real-world issue, then allow them to form an educated opinion on this issue through whole class and independent reading, engaging multimedia and infographics, and student-chosen texts. Student learning culminates in the form of a debate, argumentative essay, and optional end of unit project.
The topics for CommonLit 360’s argumentative units are designed to be interesting and relevant to students’ lives. Here are the topics and essential questions for each grade:
Grade | Unit Title | Essential Question |
6th |
| How can we make recess work for middle school? |
7th |
| How do different electives motivate students and prepare them for the future? |
8th |
| Should our school have a later start time? |
9th |
| Is graffiti a work of art or a crime to be punished? How do we decide? |
10th |
| Should schools be allowed to punish students for what they write on social media? |
11th |
| What do governments owe their citizens? What do citizens owe their governments? |
12th | No argumentative unit for 12th grade yet, but our 11th and 12th grade curriculum are still under development with new units being released during school year 2023-2024! |
CommonLit’s argumentative writing units are anchored around informational texts that provide background knowledge to support students’ end-of-unit essays.
In 9th Grade, there are six Essential Reading Lessons. These lessons introduce students to the concept of public art. Then, students learn about negative impacts of graffiti on historic structures, reasons why large cities are concerned about graffiti, and graffiti’s association with other types of crime. Students also learn about graffiti from a more positive lens, including learning about the Visual Artists Rights Act and how it protects graffiti artists, and information about the modern inventor of graffiti, Darryl McCray.
These texts form the foundation of knowledge students will draw upon to form their own opinions and write their end-of-unit argumentative essays.
Most units give students an opportunity to choose from a curated set of texts to further their knowledge and gather evidence for their final essays. This offers an excellent opportunity for student independence and collaborative discussion of different texts and perspectives.
After engaging in six Essential Reading Lessons, 9th Grade students will choose from a list of texts to build on their knowledge and strengthen their argument for or against graffiti.
Students are given two sets of texts and videos and must choose one of each to engage with. After reading and taking notes, they do a jigsaw activity to learn from partners about the two texts or videos they did not engage with.
In our argumentative writing units, students have the chance to participate in a formal debate. By assigning students to a side and requiring collaboration amongst teams, these debates teach students to use reasoning and evidence to argue a point and respond to counter arguments.
In 9th Grade, students answer the debate question, “Should graffiti be protected?”
Debate lessons include rounds of partner debate and chances for students to confer in like-minded teams to gather evidence and prepare for rebuttal. These debates set students up for success in their essay drafting, because students leave with strong reasons and evidence for both sides of the argument and can make more informed, persuasive cases in their writing.
Each unit for Grades 6 to 10 includes an optional end-of-unit project. These projects are an exciting chance for students to collaborate with peers and present arguments in real-world scenarios.
Grade | Unit Title | Optional Final Project |
6th |
| Students create a persuasive brochure complete with visuals and infographics to make a case for recess and explain the benefits of structured and unstructured play time for children. |
7th |
| Students work in small groups to create a compelling visual argument to share with fellow students about the importance of taking electives. |
8th |
| Students create a video where they give a short persuasive speech, or “elevator pitch,” to convince their chosen audience of their stance on school start times. |
9th |
| Students work in pairs to create a presentation proposing a public work of art in a community of their choosing. |
10th |
| Students create a mock Instagram carousel to help teenagers understand their rights on social media. |
All argumentative units have lessons that guide students through an analysis of a student-written mentor text. Through these lessons, students learn the most important parts of an argumentative essay.
After writing a first draft, students complete revision lessons, which are a quick and exciting way for students to add argumentative techniques to their writing such as: addressing your audience directly, writing effective rhetorical questions, using repetition, or opening with narrative. In these lessons, students examine models and practice their new skills in fun, low-stake journal prompts such as “Convince a friend to lend you $1,000” or “describe the perfect school lunch” before revising their unit essays.
Writing lessons in the argumentative units include multiple opportunities for practice and revision.
If you are interested in learning more about CommonLit 360, here are some recommended next steps:
CommonLit’s team will reach out with more information on our school and district partnerships.
Argumentative Essay Guide
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Are you struggling to write an argumentative essay? Do you want to learn the essential tips and techniques to craft a convincing argument?
Argumentative essay writing needs more than just a personal opinion. It requires you to present evidence and facts to support a claim. But where do you begin?
Look no further! This blog post will provide an in-depth guide on how to write an effective argumentative essay.
Read on to learn how to craft a perfect argumentative essay in this simple step-by-step guide.
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An argumentative essay is a type of essay where the writer takes a strong stance on an issue and presents arguments for it.
These essays are built around a central argument. The arguments must be supported by logical evidence and facts. The primary purpose of an argumentative essay is to persuade readers to accept the writer's point of view on a particular topic.
Students often mix up argumentative essays and persuasive essays . The big difference is that an argumentative essay uses strong evidence and facts to prove a point, while a persuasive essay tries to convince readers by appealing to their emotions and beliefs.
Argumentative essays are the most common type of essays for High School and College students. These essays require strong critical thinking skills and the ability to analyze a topic at a deeper level.
Here are the steps involved in argumentative essay writing:
Here is a step-by-step descriptive guide on how to start an argumentative essay:
Pick a debatable topic that interests you and has ample research material. A debatable topic is one that has multiple perspectives and can be argued for or against. It should also be a topic with ample research material available, so you can find enough evidence to support your arguments.
Your essay title should reflect the central theme and stance of your argument, such as "Should school uniforms be mandatory in public schools?"
Once you have chosen your topic, the next step is to gather information. Thorough research is the foundation of a strong argumentative essay. Here's how to approach it:
For Example:
"A study by the National Association of Elementary School Principals found that schools with uniforms reported 30% fewer incidents of bullying." "Opponents argue that uniforms suppress individuality and creativity, which are important aspects of personal development." |
An outline helps organize your thoughts and structure your essay. For argumentative essays, consider using a basic essay outline structure like the five-paragraph essay format for shorter essays.
However, for longer argumentative essays , where complex issues and detailed research are involved, you may need a more intricate and detailed outline to address all aspects of the topic comprehensively.
Here's a basic outline template, for more detailed structure read our argumentative essay outline blog:
Start with an attention-grabbing sentence or question. Provide context for the topic. Clearly state your argument or position on the issue.
Introduce the first argument or point that supports your thesis. Present facts, statistics, examples, or expert opinions that support your argument. Explain how the evidence supports your point. Address a potential counterargument and refute it.
(Follow the same format as Paragraph 1)
(Follow the same format as Paragraph 1) Summarize the main counterarguments to your thesis. Provide strong evidence and reasoning to refute each counterargument.
List all the sources you've used for research, following the appropriate citation style (e.g., APA, MLA). |
An argumentative essay introduction clearly states the writer’s claim that he will make in the essay. The introductory paragraph should be logical and intellectual and should be written persuasively.
Here are three steps you can follow to write a very persuasive argumentative essay introduction:
Here is the thesis statement example for an argumentative essay:
"Public schools should implement uniform policies because they promote a sense of community, reduce distractions in the classroom, and contribute to a more equal educational environment." |
The body paragraphs involve topic sentences and evidence, either against or supporting a certain point of view.
Here are three simple steps for crafting the body paragraphs:
Smoothly transition between paragraphs in your argumentative essay using transition words like "however," "therefore," "moreover," and "nevertheless." These words help maintain the flow of your ideas, ensuring your essay is easy to follow and logically structured.
This counter-argument paragraph contains the opposing point of view that a reader may pose against your main argument. This paragraph aims to prove that the opposing side is wrong by providing facts and evidence.
Below are the four steps to write a counter-argument paragraph:
The conclusion needs to be logical and precise and inspire the reader to agree with your claim. It should provide the final stance about the argument, which tells that your side of the argument is right.
Here are the three steps to writing an effective argumentative essay conclusion:
Before wrapping up your essay, review the graphic organizer provided below. This will help ensure your essay is well-structured and each part, from introduction to conclusion, is properly developed and supported.
This final check makes sure your essay is cohesive, persuasive, and thoroughly addresses your chosen topic.
For writing a good argumentative essay formatting is equally important. Here are some formatting guidelines for composing a well-written and visually appealing argumentative essay:
These formatting guidelines are general standards. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your institute or professor for any additional requirements.
There are five types of arguable claims that you can support in your essay. These include factual claims, definition claims, value claims, cause-and-effect claims, and policy claims.
Let's discuss each type in detail:
These claims focus on facts and events that have occurred in the past. They can be supported with evidence such as statistics, examples, or expert opinions.
For instance, you could write an argumentative essay to support the claim that global warming is a man-made phenomenon. You would present evidence such as scientific research findings and expert opinions to back up your argument.
These claims focus on the definition of something or a concept. You can use logic, historical facts, and evidence to support a definition claim.
For example, you could write an argumentative essay to define what “success” means for a person or organization. You would need to back up your definition by providing evidence from experts or historical data.
These claims focus on the value of something and can be supported with facts and expert opinions.
For instance, you could write an argumentative essay to argue that technology has a positive effect on our lives. You would present evidence such as surveys and studies that show how technology has made life easier and more efficient.
These claims focus on how one event or action leads to another. They can be supported with evidence such as experimental data.
For example, you could write an argumentative essay to argue that poverty causes crime. You would need to present evidence from experts and other sources to back up your claim.
These claims focus on specific initiatives or policies that people want to implement. They can be supported with evidence from experts and other sources.
For instance, you could write an argumentative essay with the data to support the implementation of a new government policy for healthcare reform. You would need to provide evidence such as reports and studies on the issue to back up your claim.
So, there are five types of arguable claims that you can make in your essay. Each type requires its own unique approach.
There are three main types of argument structures that may be used in an essay. Let's see how each of them works:
The classical argument structure is the oldest and most common type of argument. This model has its roots in the works of the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle.
It consists of five parts:
To construct a classical argument essay, you would need to:
The Rogerian model is used in essays where the main purpose is to find a common ground between opposing sides. It was developed by psychologist Carl Rogers.
It consists of four parts:
To construct a Rogerian argument essay, you would need:
The Toulmin structure is less common than the other two but it has its own unique style. This model was developed by British philosopher Stephen Toulmin. It consists of six parts:
To construct a Toulmin model argument, you have to:
Watch this video that explains the three different types in detail:
Sample essays play a vital role in understanding the structure of an essay. So check out the examples with the analysis below and do not forget to read our argumentative essay examples blog for more sample essays.
As online learning gains traction, a debate ensues: should public libraries be replaced by tablets? Proponents argue that this move would save costs and enhance access to reading materials. However, such a transition would be shortsighted and detrimental for several reasons. Firstly, while digital resources offer convenience, studies show they hinder learning compared to print. Research reveals that tablet readers are slower, retain less information, and comprehend less than print readers. Additionally, prolonged screen exposure leads to various health issues, including eye strain and musculoskeletal problems. Secondly, libraries offer diverse services beyond book lending, fostering community cohesion and knowledge exchange. Community events and study spaces provided by libraries create invaluable connections that tablets cannot replicate. While the notion of replacing libraries with tablets may seem pragmatic, it risks exacerbating screen dependency and depriving communities of essential services. |
Improvements:
With the growing concern over climate change, the debate between renewable energy and fossil fuels has intensified. While some advocate for a swift transition to renewable sources, others argue for the continued use of fossil fuels. However, a closer examination reveals that renewable energy is the more viable and sustainable option for our future. Renewable energy, such as solar and wind power, offers numerous environmental benefits. Unlike fossil fuels, which release harmful greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, renewable sources produce clean energy with minimal environmental impact. Additionally, renewable energy technologies are becoming increasingly efficient and cost-effective, making them competitive alternatives to fossil fuels. Furthermore, reliance on fossil fuels poses significant risks to both the environment and public health. From oil spills to air pollution, the extraction, transportation, and combustion of fossil fuels contribute to environmental degradation and respiratory diseases. Transitioning to renewable energy would mitigate these risks and promote a healthier, more sustainable future for all. While opponents argue that renewable energy is intermittent and unreliable, technological advancements have addressed these concerns. Battery storage and smart grid technologies enable the efficient storage and distribution of renewable energy, ensuring reliability and stability in the power grid. In conclusion, the benefits of renewable energy far outweigh those of fossil fuels. Not only does renewable energy offer cleaner and safer alternatives, but it also fosters economic growth and job creation in the renewable energy sector. By embracing renewable energy, we can mitigate climate change, protect our environment, and ensure a brighter future for generations to come. |
Also, check out the following free argumentative essay examples provided in PDF format:
Choosing a topic for an argumentative essay is way more complicated than choosing a topic for any other essay. To get enough material to write about, we have compiled some easy argumentative essay topics for students.
Check out these topics and visit our argumentative essay topics blog for more ideas:
To finish it off,
Argumentative essay writing requires strong research and analysis skills to develop a sound argument. With the right planning and structure, anyone can write an effective argumentative essay.
Now that you have learned about the basics of writing an argumentative essay, it is time to start putting your ideas into practice. Choose a topic that you are passionate about and start writing!
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What are the 5 main parts of an argumentative essay.
The five main parts of an argumentative essay are:
Here are some essential transition words and phrases to strengthen your argumentative essays:
In an argumentative essay, the writer presents a claim or argument and supports it with evidence, aiming to persuade the reader to adopt their viewpoint. In contrast, an expository essay aims to inform or explain a topic, presenting facts, analysis, and evidence without necessarily taking a stance or trying to persuade the reader.
The 3 best tips for writing a good argumentative essay are:
An argumentative essay is written in various contexts, including:
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Ever tried getting into a heated debate with a friend over the best movie of the year? Or arguing with your sibling about who deserved the last slice of pizza? If yes, you’ve already dabbled in the art of argumentation. In academic writing , though, this skill gets taken up a notch. And it all starts with picking good argumentative essay topics.
Your topic sets the tone for your whole paper. To hit the mark, your topic needs to be relevant, debatable, and backed by solid research. Miss these, and your essay might struggle to keep your audience engaged or convincingly argue your side. In this blog, we’ll provide a list of good argumentative essay topics, show you how to spot the best ones, and share tips on writing a strong argumentative essay.
How to choose a good argumentative essay topic, how to write a good argumentative essay, frequently asked questions.
A solid argumentative essay starts with choosing the right topic. Below, you’ll find a 100 good argumentative essay topics, organized by category. These are not only relevant and debatable, but they also offer plenty of research opportunities.
1. Should we prioritize privacy over security in our digital age?
2. Is universal basic income a real solution to economic inequality?
3. Do governments need to step in and regulate freedom of speech on social media?
4. Is affirmative action still necessary, or has its time passed?
5. Should hate speech be protected under free speech laws , or is that a step too far?
6. Is the wealth gap at the heart of social unrest?
7. Would lowering the voting age to 16 make a difference?
8. Is social media addiction something we should treat as a public health crisis?
9. Should there be tougher laws against online bullying?
10. Could mandatory national service be the key to building a stronger society?
1. Do we need stricter rules around the ethical development of artificial intelligence?
2. Is social media more harmful than helpful when it comes to shaping public opinion?
3. Are autonomous vehicles ready for public roads, or should we pump the brakes?
4. Is automation really eating up job opportunities, or is that just the future we’re headed towards?
5. Should we allow genetic engineering to create “designer babies,” or is that a line we shouldn’t cross?
6. Is the collection of personal data by tech companies a blatant violation of privacy?
7. Should the government step in and regulate cryptocurrencies?
8. Is virtual reality poised to become the future of education and training?
9. Do we need global regulations to keep drone use in check?
10. Is facial recognition technology a threat to our personal freedom?
1. Should we ditch standardized testing and find better ways to assess students?
2. Can remote learning ever be as effective as traditional classroom education?
3. Would free college tuition for all be the game-changer we need?
4. Is homeschooling really a better alternative to the traditional school system?
5. Should schools put more focus on teaching life skills instead of just academics?
6. Is our current education system preparing students for the jobs of the future?
7. Should every student be required to learn a second language in school?
8. Is the focus on STEM education drowning out the importance of the arts?
9. Do we need stricter dress codes in schools, or are they already too rigid?
10. Is the grading system a true reflection of a student’s abilities?
1. Should vaccine mandates be enforced for the greater good of public health?
2. Are we doing enough to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues?
3. Is it time to legalize euthanasia across the globe?
4. Is the anti-vaccine movement a genuine threat to global health?
5. Should the government step in to regulate the skyrocketing prices of prescription drugs?
6. Can alternative medicine really stand up as a treatment option for chronic illnesses?
7. Do we need to cap how much healthcare providers can charge for their services?
8. Is the current healthcare system in the United States something we can sustain in the long run?
9. Should medical research focus more on extending life or improving its quality?
10. Is it ethical to use animals in medical research, or should we find another way?
1. Should governments really crack down on carbon emissions to tackle climate change head-on?
2. Is nuclear energy the sustainable answer we’ve been looking for in the global energy crisis?
3. Would banning single-use plastics worldwide actually make a dent in environmental pollution?
4. Is it ethical to push for economic development at the expense of environmental conservation in developing countries?
5. Should we rally together globally to save endangered species from extinction?
6. Is climate change truly the biggest threat humanity faces in the 21st century?
7. Should countries be held legally responsible if they fail to meet international climate agreements?
8. Is promoting electric vehicles the best way to cut down on greenhouse gas emissions?
9. Should water use be more tightly regulated in areas facing severe droughts?
10. Can we justify exploiting natural resources in the Arctic, knowing the potential environmental damage?
1. Should the electoral college in the U.S. be scrapped in favor of a popular vote system?
2. Is proportional representation a fairer way to govern compared to first-past-the-post?
3. Would imposing term limits on all elected officials help prevent power from getting too concentrated?
4. Is globalization a boon or a bane for national sovereignty?
5. Should governments have the power to censor online information in the name of national security?
6. Is the rise of populism a serious threat to democracy worldwide?
7. Would making voting mandatory in democratic elections really boost voter turnout?
8. Is the United Nations actually effective in keeping global peace and security?
9. Should we ban political donations from corporations to lessen money’s influence in politics?
10. Is it justified for governments to impose austerity measures during economic downturns?
1. Should assisted suicide be legalized for those suffering from terminal illnesses?
2. Is it ethical to use animals in scientific research and experiments?
3. Would a universal basic income be a moral move to ensure everyone has a minimum standard of living?
4. Is it morally acceptable to genetically modify embryos to prevent certain genetic disorders?
5. Should businesses be required to put ethical practices above chasing profits?
6. Is it right to enforce mandatory vaccinations for the greater public good?
7. Should the death penalty be abolished worldwide because it violates human rights?
8. Is it ethical to let parents choose their child’s gender through genetic selection?
9. Should whistleblowers be legally protected, even if they expose national security secrets?
10. Is it ever morally justifiable to use torture in extreme cases to get information from terrorists?
1. Should we bump up the minimum wage to keep pace with today’s cost of living?
2. Is capitalism really the best system for driving innovation and economic growth?
3. Should governments step in to bail out struggling industries during recessions?
4. Is corporate social responsibility a real commitment or just a clever marketing ploy?
5. Should multinational corporations be held accountable for the labor practices within their supply chains?
6. Could universal basic income be the answer to unemployment caused by automation?
7. Should insider trading come with harsher penalties to crack down on financial crimes?
8. Is the gig economy more of a blessing or a curse when it comes to workers’ rights and job security?
9. Do financial institutions need stricter regulations to prevent another economic meltdown?
10. Is the wealth gap just a natural result of free-market capitalism, or should we tackle it through government intervention?
1. Should social media platforms take responsibility for the spread of misinformation?
2. Is censorship in media ever justified in the name of protecting public morals and security?
3. Should we ban violent video games for minors to curb aggressive behavior?
4. Is Hollywood really lacking in diversity, and should the industry make a serious effort to fix it?
5. Should reality TV shows be held to the same ethical standards as news programs?
6. Is the way media portrays mental illness doing more harm by spreading stigma or helping by raising awareness?
7. Should music with explicit content face stricter age restrictions?
8. Is binge-watching TV shows hurting our mental health and productivity?
9. Should celebrities use their influence to speak out on political and social issues ?
10. Is the impact of media on body image doing more harm than good?
1. Should the legal drinking age be lowered or raised based on recent studies?
2. Is the current prison system really effective at rehabilitating criminals, or is it falling short?
3. Should we decriminalize the use of recreational drugs to cut down on incarceration rates?
4. Does the “three strikes” law actually deter repeat offenders, or is it just overcrowding our prisons?
5. When it comes to anti-terrorism laws, should the right to privacy take priority over national security?
6. Is plea bargaining an ethical practice in the criminal justice system, or is it time for reform?
7. Should juvenile offenders face adult sentences for serious crimes, or is that too harsh?
8. Is the current bail system unjustly favoring the wealthy?
9. Should hate crimes come with harsher penalties than other crimes?
10. Is the death penalty a true deterrent to crime, or should we abolish it on moral grounds?
Good argumentative essay topics have the following qualities: relevance, debatability, and research availability. Nail these three elements, and you’re on your way to crafting an engaging and persuasive essay.
When you pick current argumentative essay topics, you’re tapping into issues that people are already thinking and talking about. That’s key to grabbing your reader’s attention. For example, with technology advancing at breakneck speed, the ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI) are more relevant than ever.
Another hot topic? Climate change policies. With countries striving to meet international climate goals, this issue isn’t going away anytime soon. Sticking to current topics keeps your essay engaging because readers are naturally more interested in things that affect their lives right now.
Good argumentative essay topics contain multiple viewpoints and can spark a real debate. Take the death penalty, for instance—people have strong, reasonable arguments on both sides. Or think about the controversy over whether social media platforms should tighten their content regulations. This debate has everyone from free speech advocates to those worried about misinformation weighing in.
When your topic has multiple perspectives, it gives you the room to explore different angles and build a well-rounded, nuanced argument.
No matter how good your topic is, if you can’t back it up with solid research, your argument won’t hold water. That’s why it’s crucial to pick argumentative essay topics with plenty of available data and credible sources. Vaccine mandates, for example, are a well-researched topic, with data from institutions like the CDC and WHO readily accessible.
To ensure your argumentative essay topics are well-supported by research, dig into journal articles , books, and reliable online sources that give you comprehensive information. Here are some go-to sources for gathering reliable research to support your essay:
Aside from picking the right topics, writing a good argumentative essay means building a case that’s hard to refute. You need a clear structure, a strong thesis, logical arguments, and the ability to address opposing views thoughtfully. Mastering these elements will help you craft an essay that’s not just persuasive but also well-rounded.
An argumentative essay usually sticks to a familiar format: introduction, body, and conclusion.
Let’s say you’re writing about the ethics of AI. Your introduction might start with something like, “As artificial intelligence keeps advancing, the ethical questions surrounding it are becoming harder to ignore.” In the body of your argumentative essay, you’d dive into topics like privacy concerns, algorithmic bias, and job loss, backing each one up with studies or expert opinions. Your conclusion would then tie everything together, reinforcing why AI developers must consider these ethical responsibilities.
Your thesis statement is the backbone of your essay. It needs to be clear, concise, and specific so your reader knows exactly where you stand. A strong thesis statement takes a debatable stance. Don’t merely state a fact.
For instance, instead of saying, “ Social media affects our lives,” you could go with something stronger like, “Social media’s role in spreading misinformation poses a serious threat to democratic processes and should be more strictly regulated.” This version is specific, makes a clear argument, and sets the stage for the rest of your essay.
When you’re crafting your thesis, ask yourself if someone could reasonably disagree with it. If the answer is yes, then you’ve got a solid foundation for a strong argumentative essay.
Here’s where you really get to make your case. Building a strong argument means using credible sources and logical reasoning to back up your claims. Let’s say you’re arguing that remote learning isn’t as effective as in-person classes. You could cite studies that show lower engagement or retention rates among online students.
But don’t just drop the evidence and move on. Explain how it supports your thesis. You might write, “A 2022 study by Smith found that students in remote learning environments scored 15% lower on exams compared to their in-class peers, highlighting the challenges of staying focused and motivated in a virtual setting.”
Your argument should also flow logically from one point to the next, guiding your reader through your reasoning step by step. Using transitional phrases like “Furthermore,” “In contrast,” or “Therefore” helps connect your ideas and keeps the essay moving smoothly.
No good argumentative essay is complete without tackling counterarguments. Addressing opposing views shows you’ve thought about the issue from all angles, which boosts your credibility. You need to understand these counterarguments and then present evidence that challenges or disproves them.
Let’s say you’re arguing for stricter social media regulations. You’d probably come across the counterargument that these regulations could infringe on free speech. To refute this, you could point to real-world cases where unchecked misinformation has caused harm, like how false information about COVID-19 vaccines led to widespread hesitancy and public health risks.
You might phrase it like this: “While some argue that regulating social media could limit free speech, the COVID-19 pandemic has shown us that unchecked misinformation can lead to serious public health crises, which makes a strong case for more oversight.”
The conclusion of your argumentative essays is your last shot to reinforce your stance on the chosen topics and ensure they resonate with your readers. Start by summarizing your main points—without just repeating them word for word. This helps drive home your argument in a clear and concise way.
Then, restate your thesis, but tweak it to reflect the discussion you’ve had throughout your essay. If you started out arguing for stricter social media regulations, you might conclude with something like, “Given the powerful role misinformation plays in shaping public opinion, it’s crucial that social media platforms implement more stringent regulations to protect the integrity of democratic processes.”
Finally, leave your reader with a strong closing statement. This could be a call to action, a prediction, or a thought-provoking question that sticks with them. For instance, “As technology keeps evolving, how we balance freedom with regulation will shape the future of our digital society. The decisions we make today will echo for generations to come.”
A well-crafted conclusion does more than just wrap things up—it reinforces your argument, ensuring your reader walks away with a clear sense of where you stand.
Extra tip: Once you’ve got your essay polished, consider entering it in prestigious writing contests like the J ohn Locke Institute Essay Competition , The Emerson Prize , or the National Scholastic Art & Writing Awards . These platforms give your work a chance to shine.
A great topic for an argumentative essay hits three key points: it’s relevant, debatable, and lets you dig deep into the issue. Instead of going for something too subjective like “Is pizza delicious?”—which doesn’t really leave much room for argument—try something more specific and impactful, like “Should schools replace traditional lunch options like pizza with healthier alternatives?”
Unique argumentative essay topics take you off the beaten path and get you thinking in new directions. These topics might explore less common areas or bring fresh perspectives to current issues. For example:
These questions stand out because they push you to challenge conventional thinking and dive into modern debates that are still evolving.
Fun argumentative essay topics are all about keeping things light and engaging, with a dash of humor or an unconventional twist. Think of topics like:
These topics are meant to be enjoyable, sparking lively debates while still offering some substance.
Cause and effect essay topics focus on the “why” and “what happens next” of a situation, and explores the relationship between events or phenomena. Examples include:
These topics require you to break down why something happens and explore its consequences, giving you plenty of material for a detailed discussion.
Good argumentative essay topics for college students tackle issues that are relevant to their lives, both academically and personally. Consider topics like:
These topics resonate with the college experience, making them both relatable and significant for in-depth exploration.
When it comes to writing good argumentative essay topics, here’s what you need to keep in mind:
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Being a student and writing essays is not something everybody enjoys, but in my personal opinion as a writer, anyone can find contentment and pleasure in writing, especially when it comes to argumentative essays. While they may seem tricky to navigate, they offer this unique opportunity to express your opinions and make your voice heard. Consider this a growing process—once you overcome the challenges of writing argumentative essays, you will learn the art of agreeing or disagreeing with popular opinions and defending your stance. As far as the essay is concerned, I will show you how to master this process on how to write an argumentative essay.
You will likely be required to write argumentative essays throughout your academic life, from high school to university. These assignments will present opportunities to develop and showcase your critical thinking and persuasive writing skills. Here are some scenarios where you might encounter the need to write argumentative essays:
Academic Assignments
Often assigned in school or college courses to help students develop critical thinking and persuasive writing skills. These assignments encourage students to research thoroughly, form coherent arguments, and present their viewpoints convincingly.
Debates and Discussions
Serve as the basis for presenting and defending viewpoints in academic or competitive settings. Argumentative essays provide a structured way to organize thoughts and evidence, helping participants articulate their arguments effectively during debates.
Opinion Pieces
Commonly used in newspapers, magazines, and online publications to influence public opinion on current issues. These essays allow writers to present their stance on controversial topics, backed by evidence and reasoning, to sway readers' views.
Policy Proposals
Utilized in government and policy-related fields to propose and defend specific policy changes or solutions to societal problems. Argumentative essays in this context present well-researched arguments to persuade policymakers and stakeholders of the necessity and viability of the proposed changes.
Persuasive Speeches
Prepared as a foundation for delivering persuasive speeches. Writing an argumentative essay helps speakers organize their thoughts and evidence logically, providing a solid framework for their oral presentations.
An argumentative essay uses factual evidence and logical support to convince the reader of a particular point of view. Here's a breakdown of the structure and what goes into each part of an argumentative essay:
Basic Argumentative Essay Structure
1.Introduction
Purpose: Introduce the topic, present the thesis, and set up the argument.
Hook: A sentence to grab the reader’s attention.
Background Information: Brief context about the topic.
Thesis Statement: The main argument or claim.
2.Body Paragraphs
Purpose: Present arguments and evidence to support the thesis and refute opposing arguments.
Topic Sentence: Introduces the main idea of the paragraph.
Evidence and Analysis: Present facts, statistics, quotes, or examples to support the argument.
Counterarguments and Rebuttals: Address opposing views and explain why they are invalid or less significant.
3.Conclusion
Purpose: Summarize the arguments, restate the thesis in light of the evidence presented, and offer final thoughts.
Restate Thesis: Reiterate the main argument.
Summarize Key Points: Highlight the main points made in the body paragraphs.
Final Thought: A closing statement that underscores the importance of the topic
As an experienced writer, I've come to understand the structure of argumentative essays quite well. But what I found truly challenging when I first started was nailing the right approach. Many beginners, myself included at one point, fall into traps like letting personal biases creep in or thinking that being argumentative means being aggressive. Trust me, that's not the case at all!
In this section, I'm going to lay out an effective approach on how to write an argumentative essay step by step for beginners. I'll break it down in a way that I wish someone had done for me when I was starting out. Plus, I'll share some insider tips on tools like WPS Office that I've come to rely on to streamline my writing process. So let's learn how to write an argumentative essay with a few examples.
When I sit down to craft an argumentative essay, my first step is to engage in a comprehensive brainstorming session. This is your opportunity to let your creativity run wild and explore every angle of your topic. Write down every idea that comes to you, whether it supports or opposes your topic. Remember, at this stage, there are no bad ideas.
Now, while there's nothing wrong with the classic pen and paper approach, I've found that using WPS Office takes my brainstorming to a whole new level. It's not just about having a digital notepad; the AI features often toss out ideas that I might never have thought of on my own. It's like having a creative partner who never gets tired! Let me show you how I use it:
Let's say our topic is "Are Electric Cars Better for the Environment?"
Step 1: Open WPS Office and type "@AI" on a blank document to activate WPS AI.
Step 2: Click on the "Brainstorm" option and enter your prompt. Make sure it's detailed and clearly explains what you want. Here's an example of an effective prompt:
"Generate a list of arguments both for and against the idea that electric cars are better for the environment. Consider factors like emissions, manufacturing processes, battery disposal, and energy sources"
Step 3: WPS AI will generate several arguments on both sides. If you want more, simply click "Rewrite”.
Jot down any valuable arguments before hitting "Rewrite", as you might not see the same ones again.
With these arguments in hand, you'll likely find yourself leaning towards one side of the debate. Armed with a variety of points and counterpoints, you'll be well-equipped to write an effective argumentative essay. Remember, a strong argumentative essay is built on a foundation of thorough preparation and diverse ideas.
Now that we've generated our initial arguments and counterarguments, it's time to dive deeper into research to strengthen our position. Let's continue with our example topic: "Are Electric Cars Better for the Environment?"
Let's continue with our example topic: "Are Electric Cars Better for the Environment?" Our next step is to select the most impactful supporting arguments and conduct in-depth research to substantiate them with solid evidence. Simultaneously, we'll identify the strongest counterarguments and explore ways to address or neutralize them through our research.
All of this might seem a little overwhelming, but with the help of WPS AI, the research phase becomes significantly more manageable. As we gather research papers, we can upload them to WPS Office and quickly gain insights using the AI features.
Here's how to leverage WPS AI for efficient research:
Step 1: Open your research paper PDFs in WPS Office, then click on the WPS AI widget in the top right corner.
Step 2: In the WPS AI panel that appears on the right side of your screen, click "Upload" to add your PDF.
Step 3: Once processed, WPS AI will provide you with key insights from the PDF at a glance.
Step 4: For more specific information, click on the "Inquiry" tab and use the WPS AI chatbot to ask further questions about the PDF contents.
As you conduct your research, begin organizing your findings into an outline. Remember to structure your outline according to the elements we discussed in previous sections. This will ensure your outline contains all the necessary components for an effective argumentative essay.
Now that we have our research and outline ready, it's time to start writing our first draft. This is where your essay really starts to take shape. Don't worry about perfection at this stage—the goal is to get your ideas down coherently.
Using the outline we prepared during our research, you'll find it easier to organize your thoughts for your essay. To make things simpler, use WPS Office editing tools. When I write my essay, I always ensure it is properly formatted, giving it a cleaner look and helping me focus better.
Now, simply start your draft on WPS Office with an introduction, followed by a body paragraph, and conclude with a strong summary that reviews your main points and leaves the reader with something to think about.
Once you have your draft ready, make use of WPS Office's AI features, which can help you improve writing, shorten or elongate your paragraphs, and much more. Let's say you've written your first body paragraph, and it's a bit too long. So, let's shorten it with WPS AI:
Step 1: Select the paragraph you want to shorten, then click on the WPS AI icon in the hover menu.
Step 2: From the list of options, simply click on "Make shorter" to shorten your paragraph.
Step 3: WPS AI will display the shorter version on a small screen. Click on "Replace" to replace the original text with the shorter version.
Congratulations on completing your first draft! However, there is one crucial step remaining: revising and proofreading. Revising and proofreading are where good essays become great essays.
A method I find most effective for revising my essay is reading it aloud. This technique helps in identifying awkward phrasing and run-on sentences that may go unnoticed when reading silently. As you read, ask yourself:
Does my introduction effectively grab the reader's attention and clearly state my thesis?
Do my body paragraphs each focus on a single main idea that supports my thesis?
Have I provided enough evidence to support each of my arguments?
Have I addressed potential counterarguments?
Does my conclusion effectively summarize my main points and leave a lasting impression?
You might find that you need to make some structural changes. For instance, you might realize that your second body paragraph would be more effective if it came first. Don't be afraid to move things around!
Once you have made the necessary changes to your essay, the next step is to ensure it does not have any grammatical errors. For this, I use WPS AI's spell check feature. With just a single click, WPS AI spell check ensures that my essay is complete and ready to be submitted!
WPS Office is already a premium choice among students, offering all the features needed to write a perfect essay. With WPS Office, students can write better without payment issues, annoying ads, or difficulty navigating the tools. It's a free tool with advanced features, including WPS AI, which supports the entire writing process.
WPS AI carefully scans your essay for grammatical errors and spelling mistakes, ensuring that your writing is polished and professional. This feature not only helps you avoid common errors but also enhances the readability and credibility of your work.
WPS AI offers suggestions to improve the style and tone of your writing, making it more engaging and suitable for your target audience. Whether your essay requires a formal academic tone or a more conversational approach, WPS AI tailors its recommendations to fit your needs, ensuring your writing is coherent and compelling.
Here's an example of WPS AI's 'Improve Writing' feature in action, enhancing the formality and persuasiveness of my body paragraph for the reader.
From the initial brainstorming phase to the final touches, WPS AI provides comprehensive writing assistance. It helps you structure your arguments logically, develop clear and concise thesis statements, and refine your conclusions. WPS AI also offers suggestions for enhancing clarity and coherence, making the writing process smoother and more efficient.
With the assistance of WPS AI's 'Continue Writing' feature, we can extend our essays by seamlessly incorporating additional sections that complement the existing content's flow and tone.
1. what’s the difference between an expository essay and an argumentative essay.
An argumentative essay is typically more extensive and requires independent research to establish a unique claim regarding a specific topic. It includes a thesis statement that presents a debatable assertion, which must be supported by objective evidence. In contrast, an expository essay strives for objectivity but does not propose an original argument. Instead, it aims to clarify and explain a topic straightforwardly, such as a process or concept. Generally, expository essays are shorter and do not rely as heavily on research.
In a college environment, accurately citing sources is vital for essays, research papers, and other academic assignments, but this requirement does not extend to exams or in-class tasks. Proper citations are needed for direct quotes, paraphrased material, and summaries, and it is necessary to provide complete source information in a bibliography or reference list. Following the specified citation style, such as APA or MLA, is essential for maintaining academic integrity. Whenever you utilize information or ideas from another work in college-level writing, proper citation is required to acknowledge the original source.
An argumentative essay is a type of writing that asserts a specific stance on a debatable issue, backing it up with reasoning and evidence. The main objective is to convince the reader to accept or seriously consider the author's viewpoint. This essay usually contains a clear thesis statement and develops arguments while addressing opposing views to reinforce its position. Ultimately, it seeks to encourage critical engagement with the topic at hand.
Argumentative essays are possibly the most thought-provoking when it comes to writing, presenting a higher difficulty level. Despite the challenge on how to write an argumentative essay, they are also the most fun to write, as they allow you to express your opinions in a highly opinionated form. WPS Office strives to enhance your writing experience, and as a writer, I can vouch for this. WPS Office not only offers advanced tools like WPS AI to help refine and improve your writing skills but also provides options to make your work as presentable as you want it to be. Download WPS Office today to experience the difference.
15 years of office industry experience, tech lover and copywriter. Follow me for product reviews, comparisons, and recommendations for new apps and software.
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We, the APA Style team, are not robots. We can all pass a CAPTCHA test , and we know our roles in a Turing test . And, like so many nonrobot human beings this year, we’ve spent a fair amount of time reading, learning, and thinking about issues related to large language models, artificial intelligence (AI), AI-generated text, and specifically ChatGPT . We’ve also been gathering opinions and feedback about the use and citation of ChatGPT. Thank you to everyone who has contributed and shared ideas, opinions, research, and feedback.
In this post, I discuss situations where students and researchers use ChatGPT to create text and to facilitate their research, not to write the full text of their paper or manuscript. We know instructors have differing opinions about how or even whether students should use ChatGPT, and we’ll be continuing to collect feedback about instructor and student questions. As always, defer to instructor guidelines when writing student papers. For more about guidelines and policies about student and author use of ChatGPT, see the last section of this post.
If you’ve used ChatGPT or other AI tools in your research, describe how you used the tool in your Method section or in a comparable section of your paper. For literature reviews or other types of essays or response or reaction papers, you might describe how you used the tool in your introduction. In your text, provide the prompt you used and then any portion of the relevant text that was generated in response.
Unfortunately, the results of a ChatGPT “chat” are not retrievable by other readers, and although nonretrievable data or quotations in APA Style papers are usually cited as personal communications , with ChatGPT-generated text there is no person communicating. Quoting ChatGPT’s text from a chat session is therefore more like sharing an algorithm’s output; thus, credit the author of the algorithm with a reference list entry and the corresponding in-text citation.
When prompted with “Is the left brain right brain divide real or a metaphor?” the ChatGPT-generated text indicated that although the two brain hemispheres are somewhat specialized, “the notation that people can be characterized as ‘left-brained’ or ‘right-brained’ is considered to be an oversimplification and a popular myth” (OpenAI, 2023).
OpenAI. (2023). ChatGPT (Mar 14 version) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com/chat
You may also put the full text of long responses from ChatGPT in an appendix of your paper or in online supplemental materials, so readers have access to the exact text that was generated. It is particularly important to document the exact text created because ChatGPT will generate a unique response in each chat session, even if given the same prompt. If you create appendices or supplemental materials, remember that each should be called out at least once in the body of your APA Style paper.
When given a follow-up prompt of “What is a more accurate representation?” the ChatGPT-generated text indicated that “different brain regions work together to support various cognitive processes” and “the functional specialization of different regions can change in response to experience and environmental factors” (OpenAI, 2023; see Appendix A for the full transcript).
The in-text citations and references above are adapted from the reference template for software in Section 10.10 of the Publication Manual (American Psychological Association, 2020, Chapter 10). Although here we focus on ChatGPT, because these guidelines are based on the software template, they can be adapted to note the use of other large language models (e.g., Bard), algorithms, and similar software.
The reference and in-text citations for ChatGPT are formatted as follows:
Let’s break that reference down and look at the four elements (author, date, title, and source):
Author: The author of the model is OpenAI.
Date: The date is the year of the version you used. Following the template in Section 10.10, you need to include only the year, not the exact date. The version number provides the specific date information a reader might need.
Title: The name of the model is “ChatGPT,” so that serves as the title and is italicized in your reference, as shown in the template. Although OpenAI labels unique iterations (i.e., ChatGPT-3, ChatGPT-4), they are using “ChatGPT” as the general name of the model, with updates identified with version numbers.
The version number is included after the title in parentheses. The format for the version number in ChatGPT references includes the date because that is how OpenAI is labeling the versions. Different large language models or software might use different version numbering; use the version number in the format the author or publisher provides, which may be a numbering system (e.g., Version 2.0) or other methods.
Bracketed text is used in references for additional descriptions when they are needed to help a reader understand what’s being cited. References for a number of common sources, such as journal articles and books, do not include bracketed descriptions, but things outside of the typical peer-reviewed system often do. In the case of a reference for ChatGPT, provide the descriptor “Large language model” in square brackets. OpenAI describes ChatGPT-4 as a “large multimodal model,” so that description may be provided instead if you are using ChatGPT-4. Later versions and software or models from other companies may need different descriptions, based on how the publishers describe the model. The goal of the bracketed text is to briefly describe the kind of model to your reader.
Source: When the publisher name and the author name are the same, do not repeat the publisher name in the source element of the reference, and move directly to the URL. This is the case for ChatGPT. The URL for ChatGPT is https://chat.openai.com/chat . For other models or products for which you may create a reference, use the URL that links as directly as possible to the source (i.e., the page where you can access the model, not the publisher’s homepage).
You may have noticed the confidence with which ChatGPT described the ideas of brain lateralization and how the brain operates, without citing any sources. I asked for a list of sources to support those claims and ChatGPT provided five references—four of which I was able to find online. The fifth does not seem to be a real article; the digital object identifier given for that reference belongs to a different article, and I was not able to find any article with the authors, date, title, and source details that ChatGPT provided. Authors using ChatGPT or similar AI tools for research should consider making this scrutiny of the primary sources a standard process. If the sources are real, accurate, and relevant, it may be better to read those original sources to learn from that research and paraphrase or quote from those articles, as applicable, than to use the model’s interpretation of them.
We’ve also received a number of other questions about ChatGPT. Should students be allowed to use it? What guidelines should instructors create for students using AI? Does using AI-generated text constitute plagiarism? Should authors who use ChatGPT credit ChatGPT or OpenAI in their byline? What are the copyright implications ?
On these questions, researchers, editors, instructors, and others are actively debating and creating parameters and guidelines. Many of you have sent us feedback, and we encourage you to continue to do so in the comments below. We will also study the policies and procedures being established by instructors, publishers, and academic institutions, with a goal of creating guidelines that reflect the many real-world applications of AI-generated text.
For questions about manuscript byline credit, plagiarism, and related ChatGPT and AI topics, the APA Style team is seeking the recommendations of APA Journals editors. APA Style guidelines based on those recommendations will be posted on this blog and on the APA Style site later this year.
Update: APA Journals has published policies on the use of generative AI in scholarly materials .
We, the APA Style team humans, appreciate your patience as we navigate these unique challenges and new ways of thinking about how authors, researchers, and students learn, write, and work with new technologies.
American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). https://doi.org/10.1037/0000165-000
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With these 33 new argumentative essay topics for middle school students, you can help your students learn more about what makes a good argument and how to evaluate and decipher so-called "evidence.". As they explore topics like the ways in which schools handle bullying and whether or not the Pledge of Allegiance should be required in ...
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