Writing the Augmentative Essay

Best Links for Argumentative Essay

Developing Argument

Topic Selection Includes a list of less desirable topics

View a Power Point Presentation from the Reid Textbook

Remember these Ideas as You Plan Your Argumentative Essay:

  1. An Argumentative Essay must have a clearly stated thesis that takes a position:
    Example: School districts must not ban regular recess periods for these reasons: children need a break from their academic work, children need time to play with peers, and children need time to develop their creative natures.
  2. You must provide clear reasons that defend or support your point of view, as demonstrated in the thesis example in #1.
  3. Your essay must clearly recognize the opposing view. In the case of the example thesis, the opposing view will say that students need more time in the classroom to learn to read. You must respond to that argument. Using a log will help you plan and structure your arguments:

Use this log (or create your own) to help sort out your thoughts and ideas before you begin the outline

Your argument or reason Opposing View Refute Opposing View Supporting Evidence
A. Children need a break from academics Children need to spend more time in the classroom to improve their reading skills Children need necessary breaks from academics so that they can focus better when they are learning Find information on how children's' brains work
B. Children need to learn how to interact with other children and recess provides that opportunity Children need to reach proficiency in academics; they can socialize during other times of the day. School is not a place to socialize Part of growing up requires that children learn how to get along and since they spend most of their day in school, recess provides a good opportunity for children to develop important relationships