1. Writing an Argumentative Paragraph
Structure of an argumentative paragraph
Plan – write - finalize

2. Argument
Argument – a set of reasons that show how something is true or untrue, right or wrong. It is an opinion backed up with data.
Argumentative Writing – a form writing that states (describes) the writer’s point of view (opinion) on an issue (topic, theme) and supports it by giving evidence (facts, proof)

3. Part of an Argument Essay
CLAIM - The writer’s opinion (stance) or overall argument.
REASONS – Main points that use logic or reasoning to justify the writer’s claim (opinion).
DATA – Evidence (facts) that support the reasons (claim). It makes your claim stronger and more believable.
JOINT – The bridge that connects data to the writer’s reasons and claim.
COUNTERCLAIM – A claim that disagrees with the writer’s claim (the opposition’s stance).
REBUTTAL – Evidence that disputes or disagrees with the counterclaim. It is your answers to the counterclaim and shows you aren’t afraid of your opponents.

4. Examples of an Argument

5. INTRODUCTION: Writing a paragraph
INTRODUCTION (The right hook)
Should grab the reader’s attention
Should include a statement pointing out the importance of your topic, then your claim (thesis statement).
Use a techniques for your opening hook
A surprising fact or statistic
Rhetorical question (a question asked to make a point rather than to bring about an answer)
Anecdote (short and amusing/interesting story about a situation or person)
Introduce a dilemma (a situation in which a difficult choice has to be made)
A quote

6. Each paragraph of your body will focus on a single reason.
Your paragraph should include:
A topic sentence that includes your REASON: this should be near the beginning of the paragraph.
EVIDENCE to support your reason: use facts and data that you have researched.
EXPLANATION that connects the facts and data to your reason.
TRANSITIONAL word, phrase or sentence to connect one reason to another (each reason will have its own paragraph).
The beginning or end of each paragraph should include a transition.
Also
In addition
Furthermore
Similarly
Next
Each paragraph of your body will focus on a single reason.

7. Know the opposite viewpoint of your claim.
COUNTERCLAIM: Addressing your opponent
Protect your CLAIM by acknowledging and responding the opposition’s counterclaim. Face your opponent with a strong REBUTTAL.
Know the opposite viewpoint of your claim.
ADDRESS the counterclaim in your paper by recognizing that there are others who disagree. This shows your readers that you understand that some may disagree with you.
Write a REBUTTAL: Prove the COUNTERCLAIM is FALSE or ineffective by providing your own EVIDENCE that disproves what your opponents think.
Use TRANSITIONS such as…
Those who disagree say…
However,
In contrast,
Even so,
On the other hand,

8. CONCLUSION: (The knock out punch)
The conclusion is your last chance to influence your reader. Remind your reader WHY your CLAIM is important. It should:
Tie-in with your introduction
Remind the reader of your stance
Give the reader something to think about
The most effective conclusions circle back to the hook:
If you asked a rhetorical question, give the reader and answer that supports your CLAIM.
If you gave a shocking fact, tell the reader the consequences if they choose not to follow your opinion (claim).
End with a powerful quote from an expert