Argumentative Research Essay Communications 11 Argumentative Research Essay

Argumentative Essay In this kind of essay, we not only give information but also present an argument with the PROS (supporting ideas) and CONS (opposing ideas) of an argumentative issue. Our goal is to persuade people to change their minds about a particular topic. Its not really about the issue per say, but rather how well you argue your side of the topic and convince your readers that your is “right” or most believable.

Choosing a topic… When choosing a topic you must be sure that It has two strong opposing sides, one of which you agree with. The defense of your position is interesting and varied and long enough for a five paragraph essay. Please refer to the list on the other side of your outline for ideas… no marajuania or abortion please… those topics are overdone. I have a list of a few others if you are stumped for an idea… also, you can do your own Google search.

Research To be valid, an opinion or point of view must be supported by facts and information. Research will involve books, newspapers, journals or internet articles. You need to have at least one source from an article you found using an online database. Three minimum, other sources can be from magazines, websites, books, encyclopedias. You must fill outa minimum of three MLA note taking forms.

Types of Research Support 1. Statistics/Data (why are the numbers significant?) 2. Examples 3. Expert opinions (quotations) 4. Facts All of these examples are good to include in your essay, they make it more interesting and relevant for your reader. Also help to back up your side. I will give you more information on proper citation as we continue.

Preparing Your Argument Thesis Statement The thesis statement clearly illustrates which side you are for. A thesis statement often mentions the opposing point of view: Although there are certainly reasons to be cautious with stem cell research or any new technology its potential benefits far outweigh its dangers. Support it with logical reasons. Write down each reason that back your belief- these are your arguments. Counter- Argument Every controversial issue has two sides. Once you can support what you think, you need to explore the other side. Find three opposing ideas from your arguments. These ideas will help your form the body of your essay.

Organization of the essay Present one point about A and then go to the parallel point about B. Move to the next point, and do the same thing. Thesis: Although dogs are often called man’s best friend, cats make more convenient pets. First A: Point 1 (plus support) Then B: Point 1 (plus support) Then A: Point 2 (plus support) Then B: Point 2 (plus support) Then A: Point 3 (plus support) Then B: Point 3 (plus support) Point 1: Cats can clean themselves… In contrast to cats, dogs need baths… Point 2: Cats can exercise by themselves… Unlike cats, dogs must be walked regularly… Point 3: Cats do not require training… Whereas cats need no training dogs must be trained…

The Introductory Paragraph Present the issue or controversy clearly. Be specific about what you are intending to argue for or against. Hook the reader with an interesting beginning Describe or give background on your topic Thesis statement

Building Body Paragraphs You may use either model for your essay, Remember whatever idea you present must have a counter-argument. ID- what is the argument? SUPPORT- back it up with textual reference, (MLA cited) EXPLAIN- give reasons/examples to why the support back up the argument Remember use of transitions to help shift your argument. Without logical progression of thought, the reader is unable to follow the essay’s argument and the structure will collapse. Transitions should wrap up the idea from the previous section and introduce the idea that is to follow in the next session. Transitions are always important because they help you change ideas in a clear and seamless manner. You may want to use words like : However, Despite, On the other hand, Another idea to consider….. Try to vary the use of them to increase engagement for your reader.

Quotations/Citations Use in-text citations when you use: 1. Another person’s ideas, opinion or theory 2. Any facts, statistics, graphs, drawings- any info that is not common knowledge 3. Quotations of another person’s actual words 4. Summary of another person’s spoken or written word.

Quotations/Citations You need to back your work up with examples and support. Use exact words: “The author’s ideas word by word” (Smith 1). Smith states that direct quotations are “the author’s ideas word by word” (1). Paraphrased citations: Smith explains that using author’s thoughts are still ways to support your argument. (1).

MLA FORMAT SAMPLE

Conclusion A strong conclusion is vital. If the reasoning in the body of the essay is presented in a clear, convincing order, the summary of the main points and your resulting opinion will also be strong. Re-state your position about the topic Review all reasons (short form) why your opinion is best End with a statement that ties it up for the reader

Using Easy Bib- www.easybib.com

Easy Bib to create a Works Cited Book entries should look like…

Easy Bib to Create a Works Cited Website entries should look like…