6 Paragraph Argumentative Essay 8th Grade Language Arts

How to organize your essay Your essay should follow a defined format: First paragraph: Introduction & Claim Second paragraph: First supporting evidence and warrant Third paragraph: Second supporting evidence and warrant Fourth paragraph: Third supporting evidence and warrant Fifth paragraph: Counterargument Sixth paragraph: Conclusion

Let’s break down each paragraph.

Paragraph 1 - Introduction Provide a catchy statement or fact to grab the readers attention Provide an additional fact about the topic State your claim Outline your evidence to back up your claim This paragraph has three purposes. First, get the reader’s attention. Second, state your claim. Third, give a brief summary of the paper.

Paragraph 2 – Supporting Evidence 1 Transition word or statement to demonstrate, for example, specifically, for instance Topic sentence – what is the paragraph about? Provide warrants that support your evidence

Paragraph 3 – Supporting Argument 2 Transition word or statement Topic sentence – what is the paragraph about? Provide warrants that support your evidence

Paragraph 4 – Supporting Evidence 3 Transition word or statement Topic sentence – what is the paragraph about? Provide warrants that support your evidence

Paragraph 5 – Counterargument Transition word or statement State the counterargument Explain the couterclaim and some evidence as to why that is not as valid as your claim

Paragraph 6 – Conclusion Transition word. Restatement of your claim, but be sure to paraphrase, not just repeat your original sentence from the introduction paragraph Recap your evidence Leave your reader with a call to action in the form of a question or a statement that evokes strong emotion.

Paragraph 6 Sample In summary, considering the disadvantages, it is easy to see why it is a bad idea to change this important policy. By keeping snacks out of classrooms schools will be cleaner, students will be healthier, and less money will be spent. Because of policies like this, school is a better and safer place for both students and teachers. It is imperative that this policy remains in place.