Class Notes – A.P. Language and Composition The Argumentative Essay Tips for Success

The Introduction Incorporate wording from the prompt – Dates, statistics, part of the scenario, your own scenario Include an anecdote, analogy, dialogue, a startling remark, interesting facts or details related to your position,. Your position IS your thesis statement (last sentence in the introductory paragraph) – Defend, challenge, qualify – BE CLEAR

The Introduction Think of the questions posed in the assignment – facts – any sources that will help you determine their reliability (as well as for further reference) – what prejudices lie in the argument or values that color the facts or the issue – what you think of the author's argument What are the "hot buttons" of the issue? List possible emotions/emotional reactions

The Body The first sentence of your body paragraphs IS the main idea. Introduce IT Describe IT Discuss how it is related to the assertion/claim/thesis

The Body Establish flow from paragraph to paragraph Keep your voice active- you may use “I” Quote sources (if known)to establish authority Stay focused on your point of view throughout the essay Focus on logical arguments

The Conclusion Try to avoid “in conclusion” or “in summary” Challenge your reader End with a rhetorical question that strongly supports your thesis statement or your main ideas. Relate to a personal experience or idea to your thesis. End with an important line from the original prompt.