Argumentative Essay

It is a type of essay that presents both sides of the issue or topics. It could be that both sides are
presented equally balanced, or it could be that one side is presented more forcefully than the
other. It requires the student to investigate a topic; collect, generate, and evaluate evidence;
and establish a position on the topic in a concise manner. It all depends on the writer, and what
side he supports the most. It seeks to persuade or to change the reader’s mind by convincing
the reader to agree with the writer’s claim.

Argumentative Essay Format

1. Introduction - It explains the importance of the issue, provide background information of the
issue
and provides a thesis statement which is your claim or stand in the issue. It is important to grab the
reader’s attention with a hook. Here are a few that may be suitable openers for your students’
discussion writing:
●    open with a quotation relevant to the topic being addressed.

●     a surprising fact is another great way to grab the reader’s attention and illuminate the topic
that is to be discussed.

●     a joke. Everyone loves a laugh and a joke can provide an excellent in to the student’s writing.
But, encourage your students to be careful here, the suitability of a humorous opening will largely
depend on the topic being discussed. As jokes may not always be appropriate to the material they must
be used wisely.

2. Body- The body of the text should be focused on presenting the pros and cons, the for and
against arguments, relating to the central issue. Each paragraph consists of a single point or
reason that presents a balanced argument and supported by evidences.

Paragraph 1:
Claim point 1+ support/evidence + counterclaim point 1 + refutation

 Present your first supporting point

 Support the points with facts, statistics , quotes (an expert on the topic) or examples
 Present the opposing or counter point to the above claim
 Support the points with examples or research to illustrate their position

Paragraph 2:
Claim point 2+ support/evidence + counterclaim point 2 + refutation
  Present your second supporting point
 Support the points with facts, statistics , quotes (an expert on the topic) or examples
 Present the opposing or counter point to the above claim
 Support the points with examples or research to illustrate their position

Paragraph 3
Claim point 3+ support/evidence + counterclaim point 3 + refutation

 Present your first supporting point

 Support the points with facts, statistics , quotes (an expert on the topic) or examples
 Present the opposing or counter point to the above claim
 Support the points with examples or research to illustrate their position

1. Conclusion - One excellent way to finish their discussion is to end it with a question, a challenge
to the readers to form their own opinion on the issue in light of the evidence that has been
presented.
 restate thesis and main points in different words
 might have call to action (Urge the reader to take an specific action or recommend a remedy
that reflects your stance.)