The Argumentative Essay Introducing the Counter Argument and Rebuttal

What is an Argumentative Essay? The purpose of an argumentative essay is to persuade the reader to accept—or seriously consider--your opinion on a controversial issue Has three parts: Claim, Counter Claim, Rebuttal (plus Introduction and Conclusion)

An argument in writing IS DIFFERENT THAN ARGUING WITH A PARENT OR FRIEND

Characteristics of Argument Writing Convinces reader claim is true Uses evidence—facts and data Acknowledges counterclaims—the other side of the argument

Consider your Audience Whom are you trying to reach? What do they already know about your topic? What is your relationship with your audience and how does it impact your word choice and tone?

Your CLAIM Your opinion or position on an issue Must be supported with evidence (quotes, facts, data) TIP: these can be made up but should be realistic. Don’t use 90% to prove your point. In the 80s makes more sense. (82% of students use social media.) Evidence must be explained RACE paragraph = Claim

An Effective Claim Takes a clear position Has two sides Is narrow enough to be supported within essay Can be supported by facts or citations from a text

COUNTER CLAIM Consider the opposite side Argues against your claim Turn against your argument to challenge it Then turn back to reaffirm your position

REBUTTAL Turn back to your original position Responds to and refutes issues presented by the counterclaim

The Opposing Side Ask these questions: 1. Who might disagree with my position? Why? 2. What reasons do people have for disagreeing with me? 3. What evidence would support an opposing argument?

Counter Claim Key phrases to use: One might object that... It might seem that... It's true that... Admittedly... Of course...

REBUTTAL Return to your original argument based upon careful reasoning -Show why counter argument is mistaken -Acknowledge it, but show why it is less important

REBUTTAL Key Phrases to use: but yet however nonetheless still

EXAMPLE CLAIM: “More Americans are choosing low-carb diets because the media promotes low-carb diets as the new way to a skinnier body.” COUNTER CLAIM: “Some Americans don't watch television commercials because they own a DVR or Tivo, but most Americans are exposed to other forms of advertisement in magazines, newspapers, and highway billboards.

Where to put it? Introduction Claim 1 Claim 2 Counter Claim Rebuttal Conclusion Each of these will be one paragraph!

Be Cautious! These are INEFFECTIVE! Saying the opposing viewpoint is “stupid.” Good essays are clear, calm and factual. Prove it instead. Saying negative things about groups or individuals that have different view points. This does not support your position but makes you seem petty instead.