Thinking Critically: Structuring the Argument Essay
In an argument essay, the writer defends a point of view or advocates
change. The essay, persuasive in nature, will present evidence and
proof that will defend the paper's thesis sentence which will present
the writer's position on a topic: for or against. The writer wants
to persuade the readers to change their point of view. Sometimes readers
will have a firmly established opinion on the topic; in that case,
the writer will hope to convince the readers that his point of view
has merit and is worth considering. The writer may not get his readers
to change their point their point of view, but he can hope to present
a convincing enough argument that readers will understand and accept
his opinion. In order to do this, the writer must offer supporting
evidence known as proof to strengthen his argument, strong reasoning,
and sound logic.
Follow these guidelines as you develop your argument essay:
1. Choose a topic you care about strongly enough to urge others to
accept your convictions.
2. Choose an audience in position to take action
3. Have a clearly stated thesis so that your reader knows where you
stand.
4. Argue to the point; don't get sidetracked.
5. Develop one point at a time: use a an outline
6. Argue logically by providing ample evidence appeal to the reader's
sense of logic and reason; sound logic, good reasons, strong evidence
(research)
7. Argue emotionally, using legitimate appeals to the reader's heart--don't
over-use emotional appeal, use it sparingly, and effectively.
8. Establish your authority and credibility by presenting sound proof
and evidence, sound reasoning and logic, expert testimony, even personal
experience. Make readers want to share your convictions.
9. Be fair to all sides. Even, when appropriate, concede to the strengths
of the opposing view. Recognize the opposing view.
10. Arrange your arguments to build toward the strongest evidence
in support of your case.
11. Use clear and powerful language
12. Tell the readers exactly what action you want them to take.
13. Anticipate opposing views and answer the opposition
Building a Successful Argument: Understanding the
Your Audience
Knowing who your audience will be before you begin writing your paper
will help you structure your essay. Follow these suggestions in doing
an audience analysis and targeting an audience to write to.
1. Who will be able to make the changes you suggest?
2. Who will benefit most from the changes you suggest or support?
3. What opinions do your readers already hold about your topic? What
information does your audience already have? Is your audience knowledgeable
about your topic?
4. Tell your readers right away what you want them to believe or to
act upon.
5. Present your argument through situations and circumstances readers
can identify with or imagine themselves in.
6. Identify your readers needs and appeal to those needs.
7. Convince your readers that you know your subject well--personal
experiences make the best evidence to validate your authority.
8. Convince your reader that you are a credible writer by presenting
your material in an unbiased fashion.
9. Write in a professional, reasonable tone, not over emotional, don't
preach, shout at, or insult your reader.
10. Keep your argument simple by writing a very narrow and focused
thesis.
11. Consider your audience's preconceived ideas. Apply these words
when you think of your audience: "hostile," or "friendly."
Your argument essay will present your stand or position on the subject
you have selected. You will defend that stand. You may write another
problem solving essay.
Organizing the Argument Essay:
Outline Due: Friday November 15. Final
draft due Thursday, Dec. 1.
Each pattern begins with an introduction including attention -getter,
background, and thesis at the end of the introduction. Each pattern
ends with a conclusion that summarizes the thesis and main points
and has a call to action.
Pattern 1: Thesis
Your Point of View
Your Point of View
Summary of Opposing View
Refutation of Opposing view Point 1
Refutation of Opposing View Point 2
Conclusion
Pattern 3: Thesis
Your Point 1 which also refutes opposing view point 1
Your Point 2 which also refutes opposing view point 2 |
Pattern 2: Thesis
Summary of Opposing View
Refutation of Opposing View Point1
Refutation of Opposing View Point 2
Your Point 1
Your Point 2
Conclusion |
Remember to write a good introduction
and conclusion.
English
122: Writing the Argument Essay
Thinking
Critically
