What is an Argumentative

Essay?
Argumentative Essay

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.

The primary objective is to persuade people

to change beliefs that many of them do not
want to change.
Examples of challenging
topics
 Selling and using marijuana in public
places should be considered legal.
 If we are under the age of 30 and want a
healthy life, we should definitely get a
bicycle instead of a car.
 Are dogs better than cats?
Basic structure

 Introductory paragraph: Containing a

hook, sentences to contextualize the
topic and its importance and the thesis
statement.
 Body paragraphs:
 Supporting points
 Opposing arguments
 Conclusion
Introduction/Thesis

 Set the context by reviewing the topic in

a general way.
 Explain why the topic is important.
 Present the thesis statement. It is
essential that this thesis statement be
appropriately narrowed to follow the
guidelines set forth in the assignment.
Supporting points

 This is the most important part when

persuading others. We are asking some
people to change their beliefs or actions.
We should be supporting our ideas with
such facts, statistics and/or authorities
that there should not be room for any
doubts.
Opposing arguments

 An opposing argument (also
called opposing claim, counterargument
or rebuttal) is an argument that does not
support your thesis statement.
 You should present points of the opposing
side, yet include comments (from YOU) as
well that will refocus the person back to
‘your’ side of the argument
Conclusion
 The conclusion is a very important part of the essay
because it sums up the thesis and support for it. In the
conclusion, you should restate and summarize - in brief -
the main arguments. It is best to rephrase the thesis
statement as the essay has focused on arguing and
supporting that point. It is in the conclusion, that you may
use “I” to give the reader a clear picture of your position
and reasons for taking it.
Conclusion

 Avoid adding any new arguments that have not been

presented in the body of the essay. In contrast to the
introductory paragraph, the conclusion moves from
specific to more general. You can end with a final,
persuasive appeal to leave the reader with something to
think about while considering taking your side.
 Introduction

(Introduction of topic)

(Narrowing of focus)

(Central Idea-Thesis Statement)

Body

(Main idea 1 + support for your side)

(Main idea 2 + support for your side)

(Counterargument – support of other side

+
your refutation)
Conclusion

Continuation of end of introduction

Recognition of and reaffirming your side of

the argument

Giving your opinions/perspectives

Leaving the reader with something

meaningful to think about
Sample essay