Argument Writing: Taking a Stand Term 3 Writing

Assignment Goals Students will be able to: -understand what argument is as opposed to persuasion -know how and when to use argument in their work -write an essay where they argue a point using valid evidence and clear structure

Purpose of Assignment Will prepare you for high school and college classes that require this type of writing Will allow you to convince others of your points Will assist you in areas of public speaking

Argument vs. Persuasion Argument Writing (or speaking) takes a stand on a debatable issue and supports the stance with valid evidence. It is used to convince others or simply to defend your position Persuasion refers to how the author influences the audience to adopt his position. The author usually uses various appeals (ethos, pathos and logos) Argument relies on just logos (logical reasons). Argument does not have a call to action. Argument has a formal structure—make points, provide examples, and refutes other opinions

Planning an Argument Essay Choose a Topic Create a Thesis Think about your Audience Gather Evidence (if the essay calls for research) Outline Revise

Thesis Development The thesis should: Tell a story for a purpose—to teach some lesson Examples: An essay about credit card debt: My negative experiences with credit have convinced me that college students should not have access to credit cards. The essay will tell the author’s story, but it has a specific lesson.

Outline Introduction Body Conclusion (usually just a few sentences) Intro issue Thesis Body Each paragraph should offer evidence to support the thesis Last body paragraph should offer arguments against thesis and refute them Conclusion (usually just a few sentences) Review the major points Review thesis