What went well about the debate? What did you learn for future discussions?

Addressing the claims of the opposition is an important component in building a convincing argument. It demonstrates your credibility as a writer--you have researched (or have understanding of) multiple sides of the argument and have come to an informed decision.

If you were arguing Creon was the more tragic figure, what would the counter-claim sound like? What topics would that cover? Conceding that Antigone is tragic, but not as tragic Talking about why Creon does not seem tragic, but then affirming that he is

Counterarguments may be located at various locations within your body paragraphs. You may choose to build each of your main points as a contrast to oppositional claims. offer a counterargument after you have articulated your main claims. In terms of Antigone, what would these different constructions look like?

What’s “risky” about a counter-argument? What’s the pay-off?

Consider your audience when you offer your counterargument. Conceding to some of your opposition’s concerns can demonstrate respect for their opinions. Remain tactful yet firm. Using rude or deprecating language can cause your audience to reject your position without carefully considering your claims.

Organization: underrated difficulty Points have logical progress Topic sentences communicate this logic “Repeating” All of these components illustrate how your argument contribute to the whole idea (e.g. your thesis)

Cut out the different ideas and reposition them on a new piece of paper. Put the idea bubbles in an order which you think makes logical sense Make sure you can defend the progression which defends why you put the points in the order you did Explain your logic by making arrows to the different parts of the argument. Defend you organization by writing-down your logic on the arrows. Extra challenge: level your points. Or make meaning with where you place the ideas.

Take your points and draw a map—make your logic clear (Option: write your ideas down on sticky notes so you can restructure your own argument) DEPICT: Where do you want to end up? How is each body paragraph progressing your path? OPTION: Depict this purpose visually