1. Argument Essay Notes

2. Overview
Argument--evidence given with the purpose of convincing others that an action or idea is right or wrong
Topic--the subject of a text, discourse or conversation
Issue--a conflict, or problem for debate or discussion that has two sides

3. Intro Paragraph
Hook/Lead--an interesting or catchy introduction to the argument
Background Info-
General Topic- What is the overall subject being talked about? No issue, TOPIC!
One Side
Other Side
Main Thesis/Claim--a position statement (or thesis) that could include the words could, would, should, or is, and that requires 3 topics that can be back up with evidence to prove one possible satisfactory resolution.
(Side to an Issue and 3 Whys)

4. Body Paragraph # 1, 2, 3
Topic Sentence- A topic that supports the main thesis/claim (a short, generic statement that your evidence can support)
In Text Citation- Introduce the quote and its origin.
Evidence--proof, shown in the form of a quote. “Blah, Blah, Blah” (Johnson 36).
Warrant--the reasoning or explanation of how the evidence supports the reason/topic
Valid reasoning--logically connects ideas (it makes sense)
Clincher--the tie back of why this topic matters (Why is this information important to your main argument? “Therefore..”)

5. Accuracy—the correctness or preciseness of the evidence
Evidence--proof, shown in the form of quotes, paraphrase or summary, must be cited
Credibility—the believability or trustworthiness of a source and its information
Accuracy—the correctness or preciseness of the evidence
Relevant evidence—closely connected and appropriate to the matter at hand
Sufficient evidence—enough or adequate
an observation an observed event
an existence an expert opinion
analytical comparisons Statistics
results of studies or experiments past experiences
other previously proven facts constitutional rights

6. Counter Claim – Body Paragraph 4
Counterclaim--a claim from the opposing side (“Some may claim . . .”)
In Text Citation- Introduce the quote and its origin.
Evidence--proof, shown in the form of a quotes, paraphrase or summary,
Refutation--the reason (claim) that the counterclaim is wrong
Clincher--the tie back of why this topic matters (Why is this information important to your main argument? “Therefore..”)

7. Conclusion Restate your Thesis.
Reword the topic sentences which are your whole argument(3 sentences)
Impact/implications/clincher/call to action