Argumentative Writing An Introductory Guide for Middle School Students

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

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

Types of Claims Cause and effect—a person, thing, or event caused something else to happen Example: Rikki Tikki Tavi’s victory over the snakes was the result of his natural abilities as a mongoose, rather than his desire to protect the people in the cottage.

Types of Claims Claims of definition or fact—argue what a definition is or if something is really a fact Example: In the story, “Gift of the Magi,” by O. Henry, the two characters provide an outstanding illustration of what foolish is.

Types of Claims Claims about values—argue the worth of something and if it is valued. While Perrault’s “Cinderella” is an interesting story, it is a second-rate story when compared to Grimm’s Cinderella version.

Types of Claims Claims about solutions or policies—argue for or against certain approaches to problems. Example: The Capulets have their daughter’s well- being in mind when they follow tradition and make arrangements for her to marry Paris.

Addressing the counterclaim… Refutes or proves wrong, another point Recognizes the other side’s points Lends credence to the writer’s claims

Components of Effective Argument Writing? Clear and forceful claim Well-constructed argument Strong textual support with lucid explanations of text support Addresses counterclaims Strong conclusion

Argumentative EssayGraphic Organizer IntroductionIntroduce your claim with a thesis stating your argument BodyProvide supporting evidence Body (including counterclaim)Include your counter claim or argument ConclusionRestate your argument and briefly summarize

Example Outline Thesis Statement: Because of its cost, risk and alternatives, the building of nuclear reactors should not continue. Topic Sentence 1: The first problem with nuclear reactors is their cost. Topic Sentence 2: Another problem is the serious consequences of accidents. Refutation: Some people might claim that there is no real alternative to nuclear power. Concluding Statement: In short, although nuclear power is an attractive option, it has too many disadvantages.

Introductory Paragraph Your introduction should: Introduce the topic with a general statement State why it is important State there is a difference of opinion about this topic Thesis statement must state what YOUR claim is and can include the “parts” of the argument you are going to state.

Example Introductory Paragraph There has been much discussion about the use of nuclear power ever since the first reactor was built. People who support nuclear power think that it provides a cheap and effective means of supplying energy needs. However, in reality it is not cheap at all and the dangers are well-known after the accidents at Chernobyl and Three Mile Island. The fact is that nuclear power is a tried, tested and failed technology. Because of its cost, risk and alternatives, the building of nuclear reactors should not continue.

Body Paragraphs Arguments for: The reasons “parts” of your thesis statement will be in your body paragraphs. Give clear arguments for your claim with support (examples, statistics, explanations, etc.) Use transition words as you move from paragraph to paragraph ( Firstly, secondly, furthermore, in addition, moreover, finally). You can also use any of the transitions from the other essay types as long as they are appropriate for your argument. ( You may want to compare/contrast things, give reasons/results, descriptions, definitions etc.)

Refutation (counter argument) Paragraph This is also used to support your claim. Use the counter arguments to show that your idea is the stronger one. Do not focus only on the opposing ideas.

Example Refutation Some people might claim that there is no real alternative to a new generation of nuclear reactors. However, combined heat and power units, which generate electricity, are already economical for large houses or blocks of flats and smaller units will be on the market next year. Local generation of electricity eliminates the enormous losses of wasted heat in electricity generation by fossil fuels or nuclear reactors. Wind turbines and solar cells on the roof can also provide home solutions and will become more economical as costs come down with mass production.

Concluding paragraph Your conclusion should: Restate the main claim Present one or two general sentences which accurately summarize your arguments which support the main premise Provide a general warning of the consequences of not following the premise that you put forward and/or a general statement of how the community will benefit from following that premise