Counter Argument
Preparing and Writing an Argument
What is a controversial issue?
* We should work hard for more money. / We should work less, make less money and take time off to enjoy life. Which point do you agree with and why?
* In time of economic recession, universities are/are not justified in raising tuition. * Some people believe that university students should be required to attend classes. Others believe that going to class should be optional for students. Which point do you agree with and why?
Preparation for debate
In pairs
a) Discuss the debate topic and brainstorm at least 5 to 6 points on both sides of the argument.
FOR | AGAINST | 1. | 1. | 2. | 2. | 3. | 3. | 4. | 4. | 5. | 5. | 6. | 6. |
b) Choose the strongest three arguments on each side (Thesis Statement points).
Make sure that they are significant, distinct, and relevant.
FOR | AGAINST | 1. | 1. | 2. | 2. | 3. | 3. |
c) Provide accurate evidence. Think of examples, illustrations, descriptions, or anecdotes that would support each one of your six arguments (3 for and 3 against).
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
d) Switch partners and try to persuade your partner to share your point of view. Add to your notes if necessary.
WRITING ARGUMENT
Many papers assigned for university and college courses are argument and persuasion essays.
The argumentative essay states and supports one position about a debatable topic. The position is supported with evidence, reasons and examples relevant to the point being argued. For example, “Advertisers perform a useful service to the community” would be an argumentative essay.
The persuasive essay combines reasoned arguments with the emotion required to persuade or convince the reader to take action. For example, an essay entitled “Save the Ozone and Stimulate Your Heart: Leave Your Cars at Home and Bicycle” would be a persuasive essay.
Choosing a topic for a written argument
When you choose a topic for a written argument be sure that is open to
What is a controversial issue?
* We should work hard for more money. / We should work less, make less money and take time off to enjoy life. Which point do you agree with and why?
* In time of economic recession, universities are/are not justified in raising tuition. * Some people believe that university students should be required to attend classes. Others believe that going to class should be optional for students. Which point do you agree with and why?
Preparation for debate
In pairs
a) Discuss the debate topic and brainstorm at least 5 to 6 points on both sides of the argument.
FOR | AGAINST | 1. | 1. | 2. | 2. | 3. | 3. | 4. | 4. | 5. | 5. | 6. | 6. |
b) Choose the strongest three arguments on each side (Thesis Statement points).
Make sure that they are significant, distinct, and relevant.
FOR | AGAINST | 1. | 1. | 2. | 2. | 3. | 3. |
c) Provide accurate evidence. Think of examples, illustrations, descriptions, or anecdotes that would support each one of your six arguments (3 for and 3 against).
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
d) Switch partners and try to persuade your partner to share your point of view. Add to your notes if necessary.
WRITING ARGUMENT
Many papers assigned for university and college courses are argument and persuasion essays.
The argumentative essay states and supports one position about a debatable topic. The position is supported with evidence, reasons and examples relevant to the point being argued. For example, “Advertisers perform a useful service to the community” would be an argumentative essay.
The persuasive essay combines reasoned arguments with the emotion required to persuade or convince the reader to take action. For example, an essay entitled “Save the Ozone and Stimulate Your Heart: Leave Your Cars at Home and Bicycle” would be a persuasive essay.
Choosing a topic for a written argument
When you choose a topic for a written argument be sure that is open to