1. Steps to Building an Argument
Argument Writing
Steps to Building an Argument

2. Argumentative Writing
Make a plan for the argument you can support with the text provided. Argumentative writing does include two sides. This means that you must include the opposing side, even if only briefly.

3. Planning
Planning begins with highlighting, text marking, and annotating the text set.
You WILL NOT be able to use a highlighter on the FSA writing test.
HOWEVER, for this first practice, highlight evidence for each side of the evidence a different color. This will make selecting evidence easier.

4. Characteristics of Argument Writing
Makes a claim
Convinces reader claim is true or valid
Supports your claim with reasons
Uses evidence—facts and data
Acknowledges counterclaims—the other side of the argument

5. Lead & Introduction
The lead should engage the reader. Leads can be facts, quotes, question, anecdotes, or imagery. The introduction provides background information leading to the claim
Take a clear position; clearly states your viewpoint
DO NOT begin your argument
DO NOT be neutral!

6. Body Paragraph 1
Transition to your first reason with your most convincing piece of evidence/support
Topic sentence – introduce your reason
Quote or refer to a source (CITE Evidence) Strong textual support
Explanations of text support – Explain it by connecting it to your claim and the topic sentence for that paragraph ~ your reason.
Sum it up

7. Body Paragraph 2
Transition to your second reason with convincing evidence/support
Topic sentence – introduce your reason
Quote or refer to a source (CITE Evidence) Strong textual support
Explanations of text support – Explain it by connecting it to your claim and the topic sentence for that paragraph ~ your reason.
Sum it up

8. Acknowledge the Counter
State the opposite viewpoint – say what they might think
Explain why they think this
Say what you think– reference your claim (Refute)
Give evidence against the counter (Rebuttal)
State why you disagree (Rebuttal)

9. Counterclaim starters
Critics argue that…
Others may say that…but I argue that….
A common argument is ….but….
It may be true….However….
It is easy to think that…..but when you look at the facts
Yes, some might say…but…

10. Conclusion
Relate back to the lead & claim
Give a benefit or warning.

11. Time to Trade Papers- Peer Review
Read the introduction.
Is there a lead or grabber? If so put a
Underline the claim. Is it clear?
If so put a

12. Peer Review – mark the body paragraph
T - Topic Sentence about Reason
E - Evidence
A - Analysis – this is where you explain how or why the evidence is related to your reason
A - Analysis
S - Sum it up Sentence