Argumentative Writing CHOOSING A POSITION AND PERSUADING YOUR

Argumentative Writing CHOOSING A POSITION AND PERSUADING YOUR READER USING LOGICAL ARGUMENTS TO AGREE WITH YOUR POSITION.

Expository Writing �Expository: An expository essay has a purpose to either inform, explain, or describe a topic. It gives a balanced account of the topic. It has a neutral and objective tone. �Structure: Introduction: lead the reader into the topic and state the purpose of your essay Body: divide the main topic into sub-points. Describe, explain, compare, or classify the information to support the topic. Conclusion: remind the reader of your overall point and suggest wider implications to close the essay

Argumentative Writing �Argumentative: An argumentative essay has the purpose to convince the reader of the validity of your point of view. Appeals to the readers logic rather than emotion. Clearly states an opinion. �Structure: Introduction: Leads the reader into the topic, the controversy or debate surrounding that topic, and clearly states your position. Body: Begins by making points that support your overall position. Then presents and refutes opposing arguments (concession and rebuttal). Conclusion: Does not introduce new arguments but rather restates the overall position clearly and briefly explains how you have demonstrated its validity.

Concession �Definition: recognizing the opposing viewpoint and acknowledging that it has some merit. �A reader of your essay is more likely to listen to you if you show you can see his/her point of view before you counter that argument.

Rebuttal �Definition: to refute or disprove by offering a contrary argument. �Once you have shown the reader the other argument you then need to disprove that argument to further your main point and show that the other side is flawed.

Example �Concession example: Many school administrators think an open campus would be a temptation for students to cut classes and act irresponsibly. �Rebuttal example: However, students who earn the privilege of open campus would be unlikely to jeopardize that privilege; besides, rules could be created to rescind the privilege after one class cut.

Transitions �Here are some transitions to help when writing about the other side: It is true that…however…therefore… Certainly…but…in short… Admittedly…on the other hand…so… Of course…nevertheless…as a result… Obviously…on the contrary…finally… Sure…however…in addition…

Citing from Multiple Sources �When you are given multiple sources to take text evidence from you must change how you cite your concrete details. �Your citation should include the authors last name and the page number (if available). If it is not available you may use the title of the text. �Transition, lead in “Write your concrete detail here making sure it is word for word” (Smith 29).

Assignment �Write a 4 paragraph argumentative essay. �Choose a position: The National Guard should continue to protect the Little Rock 9 to ensure their safety. The National Guard should not continue to protect the Little Rock 9 because it is not changing anything; the students are violent whether they are there or not.

Organization �For your essay you will have: Introduction: 4 -6 sentences introducing your topic. � Your last sentence in your introduction is your thesis which must state your position and your counterclaim. Body Paragraph 1: This paragraph argues your position. � Your TS should state your position and two reasons supporting it (which will be supported in your two chunks). � Support your position in a 2 chunk paragraph using text evidence. Body Paragraph 2: This is your counterclaim/concession rebuttal. � Your TS should clearly acknowledge the opposing argument, and also offer two reasons why it is invalid. � In a 2 chunk paragraph acknowledge the other side’s argument and offer a rebuttal using text evidence. Conclusion: Does not introduce new arguments. 4 -5 sentences restating your position and it’s validity.