Argumentation uses reasoning and logic to convince readers of the soundness of a particular opinion on a controversial issue. Moreover, it involves more than presenting a point of view and providing evidence; it assumes a controversy and addresses opposing viewpoints.
The Macmillan Writer: Rhetoric and Reader
Macmillan Publishing Company, 1994
To write a good argumentative essay, you should choose a topic which has conflicting viewpoints.
Do not, therefore, choose a subject which is merely factual and leaves little room for debate.
The introduction should:
• identify the controversy surrounding the issue and state your position clearly in a thesis statement
Fact: The country’s economy has gone down by 10% in the last three years
Thesis: The high …show more content…
The conclusion should:
• summarize the main points • restate the thesis statement
It may also forecast the future/call for action/discuss the implications
Checklist for an argumentative essay
1. Does the introduction identify and clarify the controversy about the issue you want to argue about? 2. Does it state your point of view? 3. Does it provide the necessary background information? 4. Do the main points support your thesis statement? 5. Are the supporting details adequate, accurate and representative? 6. Are the links between the thesis statement and supporting evidence clear? 7. Does your conclusion restate the thesis statement, summarize the main points and forecast the future / call for action / discuss implications?
The following page has a sample outline format for an argumentative essay.
Sample Outline Format for an Argumentative Essay
Essay
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