How to Write an Argumentative Essay

What is an Argument? An argument is a series of statements with coherent reasoning supported by reliable, credible, sufficient evidence typically used to persuade someone of something or to present reasons for accepting a conclusion. Counter-argument: a series of statements with coherent reasons put forward to oppose an idea or theory developed in another argument.

Argumentative Essay Structure Paragraph 1 (Introductory Paragraph) - Hook - Thesis statement (assertion + 3 reasons that support that assertion) Paragraph 2: Reason 1 paragraph topic sentence - Evidence + how evidence illustrates/proves your reason Paragraph 3: Reason 2 topic sentence Paragraph 4: Reason 3 topic sentence - Evidence + how evidence illustrates or proves your reason Paragraph 5: Counterclaims (What does the other side say?) - Counterclaim stated (“Some may say”) - Rebuttal (Some may say…,but…”) Paragraph 6 (Conclusion Paragraph) - Restate the thesis statement a different way.

Introductory Paragraph Topic: School Uniforms Hook: Have you ever struggled with what to wear to school? Claim (Assertion): School uniforms should (should not) be mandatory in public schools because R1___________, R2 ________________, and R3____________________. Evidence (supporting details/passage): Uniforms make schools safer, put all student on an equal footing, and help improve discipline.

Body Paragraph #1 (Reason 1) – School Safety Evidence: - Reduces gang activity - Easy to spot people who don’t belong - Helps prevent intruders from entering school Evidence: “Uniforms make spotting suspicious individuals quickly”(“Let’s Keep Things Uniform”).

Body Paragraph #2 (Reason 2) – Uniforms put students on equal footing. Evidence: - Helps students resist peer pressure - Reduces the difference between wealthy and poor students - Reduces bullying Students are less likely to bully one another when they wear uniforms because “the difference between wealthy and poor students is diminished” (“Let’s Keep Things Uniform”).

Body Paragraph #3 (Reason 3) – Improve school discipline Support: - Encourage discipline - Dramatic change in misbehavior - Better attendance/less bullying Evidence: “Many principals report huge improvement in student behavior” because uniforms help enforce discipline (“Let’s Keep This Uniform”).

Counterclaims Uniforms are expensive. Response: Uniforms are much less expensive than trendy clothing and they are reasonably priced. Uniforms limit student expression. Response: Students can still express themselves through their accessories: watches, bracelets, shoes and so on. Enforcing uniform policy is a waste of time. Response: Teachers waste more time policing what students wear.

Concluding Paragraph (Last Paragraph) Restate the thesis statement a different way: Wearing a school uniform should be mandatory in public schools because it is more advantageous for everyone involved. It makes it easy for students to get ready in the morning and makes the day more relaxed for them because they don’t have worry about wearing the ‘right’ clothes. The school also benefits because it reduces bullying and helps keep misbehavior down. It is obvious that school uniforms are the right choice for everyone involved.