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:
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Carefully read and understand the task requirements.
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Collect arguments for both sides of the issue, organizing them in a table, mind map, or list.
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Formulate your personal opinion on the topic.
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Structure the arguments using one of two patterns:
Pattern A:
- Introduction
- Arguments pro/con (starting with the strongest opposing argument)
- Arguments con/pro (ending with your strongest supporting argument)
- Conclusion
Pattern B:
- Introduction
- Argument 1 → Counter argument 1
- Argument 2 → Counter argument 2
- Argument 3 → Counter argument 3
- Conclusion
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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:
- Write a concise introduction that presents the topic engagingly without revealing your opinion.
- Present arguments in the main body, using separate paragraphs for each point. Strengthen arguments with explanations, examples, personal experiences, facts, and expert opinions.
- 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.