Argumentative Writing: A Comprehensive Guide

This page provides a detailed overview of argumentative essay structure and the process of creating a well-crafted argumentative essay. It covers the essential stages of planning, writing, and revising, along with valuable language support.

Planning Stage

The planning stage is crucial for developing a strong argumentative essay. It involves several key steps:

1. Carefully read and understand the task requirements.

2. Collect arguments for both sides of the issue, organizing them in a table, mind map, or list.

3. Formulate your personal opinion on the topic.

4. Structure the arguments using one of two patterns:

   Pattern A:

   1. Introduction
   2. Arguments pro/con (starting with the strongest opposing argument)
   3. Arguments con/pro (ending with your strongest supporting argument)
   4. Conclusion

   Pattern B:

   1. Introduction
   2. Argument 1 → Counter argument 1
   3. Argument 2 → Counter argument 2
   4. Argument 3 → Counter argument 3
   5. Conclusion

5. Create a detailed outline with examples, explanations, and ideas for the introduction and conclusion.

Highlight: The more thorough your planning, the less likely you are to forget important points during the writing process.

Writing Stage

The writing stage focuses on crafting the argumentative essay structure:

1. Write a concise introduction that presents the topic engagingly without revealing your opinion.
2. Present arguments in the main body, using separate paragraphs for each point. Strengthen arguments with explanations, examples, personal experiences, facts, and expert opinions.
3. Conclude by summarizing arguments and stating your personal conclusion.

Example: An effective argumentative essay introduction might begin with "Nowadays, it is a controversial topic whether..." to set the stage for the discussion.

Revising Stage

The revision process involves multiple read-throughs, each focusing on a different aspect:

• Argument order
• Overall structure
• Grammar
• Spelling

Highlight: Multiple revisions ensure a polished and coherent argumentative essay.

Language Support

The guide provides useful phrases for different parts of the essay:

• Introduction: "Nowadays, it is a... topic", "It is often said that..."
• Conclusion: "To sum it all up", "In conclusion", "All in all"
• Presenting Arguments: "One of the main reasons why...", "It is often said that..."
• Ordering Arguments: "To start with", "Firstly/Secondly/Thirdly", "First of all"
• Contrasting Arguments: "On the one hand - on the other hand", "Contrary to what most people believe"
• Giving Examples: "For example", "This is clear because", "An example for that is..."

Vocabulary: These argumentative essay useful phrases help create a cohesive and well-structured essay.

By following this comprehensive guide, students can develop strong skills in crafting persuasive and well-structured argumentative essays.