Writing an

argument
analysis
The essay

 Introduction: provide the context and the contention of the article.

 Body paragraphs: each one should focus on an argument and how

that argument and the elements of the argument positions the reader
to agree with the contention.

 Conclusion: sum up the arguments and the contention.

Introduction
REMEMBER BCCAT

1. Background of issue:
‘The issue of whether or not [issue] has been a contentious/debated topic in the
community as a result of…(why the issue came about).’
2. Context and contention of article:
‘In a/an [type of article] titled “Title”, the writer/speaker argues that [contention]
‘Adopting/using/employing a [positive/negative/neutral synonyms] tone, the writer
takes a (style/structure) [logical/emotional/balanced] approach to the issue.’
3. Arguments and tone: the key reasons which support the contention.
‘[Surname of author] argues that [list arguments]. [Surname] uses a variety
language and persuasive devices to support his/her arguments and ultimately concludes
that….’
Writing body paragraphs: the ALEE
approach
• Argument: the point the writer is making (identify this in your topic sentence)

• Language: technique the author has used to persuade

• Example: provide evidence from the text

• Effect: how the writer intends it to position the audience

NOTE: You will need to discuss 3 – 4 pieces of language for each argument, this will
make up your body paragraph!
Writing body paragraphs: a guide
Identify Argument: Name of author confronts/appeals to [identify the intended
audience] with the [opening/closing/contrasting/similar] argument that….
Remember: language, evidence, effect (this is where the analysis part of argument analysis happens!)
[Surname of author] addresses [type of audience] in a [positive, negative or neutral]
tone. [Surname] says “evidence” which highlights [analyse the effect the words of
the phrase]. This sways the [type of audience] to feel that [link to argument].
Analyse other examples which support this argument.
*If there are visuals within the article, then you must analyse how each supports a
specific argument by analysing the composition, text and colours.
Link to Contention: The combination of [specific language and PD]
[strengthens/sustains/mocks/makes plausible] that…[contention].
Writing body paragraphs: analytical
sentences
Referring the title: [Surname] first grabs the reader’s attention with the title
‘Name’. The ‘PD’ of this title implies/positions…[analyse effect]. This sets up
the reader/audience to have a [clear understanding of the importance of,
or emotional involvement in] the author’s claim that …(link).

Incorporating a visual: [Surname] reinforces the title with the image of

[evidence]. The use of [describe colour/composition] suggests [analyse
effect]. This bolsters the authors contention by [link].The addition of the
accompanying text ‘evidence’ implies to the [type of audience]… [analysis].
The combination of text and visual work together to [link].
Referring to structure: The structure of the article [is consistently
logical/ oscillates between reason and emotion] in an attempt to
persuade the reader to agree that (state contention) through
[evidence/ emotional appeals/ a balance of persuasive devices].
Word Bank and Sentence Starters
Do not say ‘makes the reader’, try: • Evokes
• Positions • Appeals to
• May arouses feelings of… • Connotes
• Situates the reader… • Indicates
• Urges • Signifies
• Encourage • Have overtones of
• More inclined • Hints at
• May evoke • Alludes to
• Influences • Is associated with
• Elicit
• Situates
• Fosters To start paragraphs: ‘[Surname]…

• Invites • Opens with

• Engenders the response… • Develop/reinforces the earlier argument of…with…

• Contrasts with
• Shifts from…to…
To analyse the effect of the language/visual: • Juxtaposes his/her previous argument by
• Suggests • Bolsters his/her contention by…
• Implies
• Highlights
• Emphasises
Conclusion: keep it clear and concise

1. Restate the author’s name, the name of the article, the type of article and the
contention.

2. Name of author supports this contention with the arguments list arguments.

3. Name of author enhances his/her arguments by using a variety of persuasive

devices to position the reader/viewer/listener to agree that contention.
TASK: Time
to apply
Using the article you
annotated last lesson –
draft an analysis