2. ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAYS
In this kind of essay, we not only give
information but also present an argument
with the PROS (supporting ideas) and CONS
(opposing ideas) of an argumentative issue.
We should clearly take our stand (agree or
disagree) and write as if we are trying to
persuade the reader that your opinion is
right.
3. The first step is to choose an argumentative
topic.
The topic should be narrowed down.
For example:
Marijuana should be considered illegal. (too
general)
Selling and using marijuana in public places
should be considered illegal.
4. The topic should contain an argument.
For example:
We should decide whether we want a bicycle or
a car. (our stand is not clear: do we support
having bicycles or cars?)
If we are adults and want a healthy life, we
should definitely get a bicycle instead of a car.
5. It should be a topic that can be adequately
supported. (with statistics, outside source
citations, etc.)
For example:
I feel that writing an argumentative essay is
definitely a challenging task. (feelings cannot
be supported; we cannot persuade other
people)
6. Before starting writing, it is important to
make a list of PROS and CONS and choose the
most suitable ones among them for
supporting and refuting.
In an argumentative essay, you do not just
give reasons to support your point of view. You
must also discuss the other side’s reasons and
then rebut them.
7. 5 key elements of an argumentative essay:
1. Explanation of the issue.
2. A clear thesis statement.
3. A summary of the opposing arguments.
4. Rebuttals to the opposing arguments.
5. Your own arguments.
8. The introductory paragraph contains an
explanation of the issue, which is a
necessary part of an argumentative essay.
The thesis statement states clearly which
side you are for:
In my opinion, stem cell research should
receive the full support of our government.
9. If you mention the opposing point of view in
the thesis statement, the writer’s opinion can
be expressed in the main (independent
clause), and the opposing point of view is
normally put into a subordinate structure.
Although there are reasons to be cautious with
stem cell research or any new technology, I
believe that its potential benefits far
outweigh its dangers.
10. Expressions that can be used to introduce
opposing points of view include:
Some people feel that …
Many think that …
Smokers say that…
It may be true that…
11. Contrast transition signals used to connect
opposing arguments and your counter-
arguments include:
However
Although
Even though
Despite the fact that
Whereas
