Bell WorkPlease take out a sheet of paper. Then, make a list of everything you already know about

argumentative writing.

In argumentative writing, a writer takes a stand or forms an opinion and writes to convince the reader to believe this point of view.

It has an introduction, a body where the claim is developed and the counterclaims are disproven, and a conclusion.

A counterclaim is simply the opinion that is opposite of yours.

Argumentative writing follows the usual 5-paragraph format.

Writing Your Introduction

The introduction has a “hook” to catch the reader’s attention. Some “hooks” include opening with:◦an unusual detail◦a strong statement◦a quotation◦a question (it MUST be thought

provoking!)◦an exaggeration or outrageous

statement◦a shocking statistic◦figurative language

Introduction – Thesis

The introduction should also include your thesis. The thesis should be the LAST sentence in your introduction.

There are two objectives of a thesis statement:

1. It tells the reader the specific topic of your essay.

2. It explains to the reader what your position is.

The Body

The writer then provides facts and evidence to support the opinion offered in the thesis statement in the introduction.

The three body paragraphs each explain a different reason that supports your opinion or thesis. They also explain why those with opposing viewpoints are wrong.

Each paragraph is based on solid reasoning to support your thesis statement.

The Body

Since almost all issues have sound arguments on both sides of the question, a good persuasive writer must anticipate counterclaims and provide counter-arguments along with the main points in the essay.

Where do I put the counterclaims and their opposition?

They should go in your third body paragraph!

Begin by making a concession. For example:- It’s true that some people think…- While some people may believe…

End the paragraph by telling why the opposing viewpoint is not as strong as yours.

The Conclusion

Argumentative essays end by summarizing the most important details of the argument and stating once again what the reader is to believe or do.

General guidelines when writing an argumentative essay:

1. Have a firm opinion that you want your reader to accept.

2. Be sure your intro includes a hook, necessary and appropriate background information, and a thesis.

3. Offer valid evidence to support your opinion, show the counterclaim, and refute it.

4. Conclude with a restatement of what you want the reader to do or believe.