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Argumentative Essays

Author: Emma Allen

Background Knowledge

To use this lesson effectively, you should know the following:

How to write a thesis statement
Transitions/Topic Sentences
Introduction - Body - Conclusion
Writing Process

Source: any static images used in this lesson were found at http://www.dreamstime.com/

Monty Python Defines Argument in the Argument Clinic

This is a great example of the differences between an argument and a contradiction. Arguments must be intellectual, researched and well supported. They can't be just an opinion at the top of one's ears. The video is an excerpt from the whole video, which is 2.5 minutes long. Starts at 0:30, ends at 1:30.

Source: Monthy Python's Flying Circus - Argument Clinic (youtube.com) - July 15, 2010

Arguing Your Claim

Tying It All Together To Write Your Paper

Pick your Topic using clustering Venn Diagrams or Brainstorming.
Make your Claim (and if necessary, briefly list your reasons) - this doubles as your thesis statement.
Find Verified Evidence.
Actively Read the verified evidence
Critically Think about the evidence and your claim
Use deductive or inductive reasoning where appropriate
Decide on a way to argue your topic.
Make an outline – keep your reasons, supporting evidence and any objections together.
Follow the Introduction - Body - Conclusion format unless otherwise noted.
Avoid fallacies of argument when writing your paper.
Remember to argue fairly.

Source: Ruszkiewicz, John, Maxine Hairston, and Daniel Seward. SF Writer. Third. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson, Prentice Hall, 2005. 167-217. Print.