Argumentative

Writing
A nca T-Hummel
NBCT-AYA/ELA
[email protected]

Joanna Nichols
I.L. English

[email protected]
 ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY
The argumentative essay
is a genre of writing that requires
you to:
1. investigate a topic;
2. collect, generate, and evaluate
evidence; and
3. establish a position on the topic
in a concise manner.
 Everyday Life Example
When we argue:
Claim Bob: That was a lame movie!
Suzy: Why?
Evidence Bob: The special effects were bad.
The monsters were obviously fake.
Counterclaim Suzy: I thought the movie was good
because the acting was believable.
Bob’s bad response: You are an idiot.
Refutation Bob’s good response: Yes the acting
was good but the horrible special
effects were too distracting and
caused some awkward moments.
3
 PERSUASION versus ARGUMENTATION

Persuasion: The action or fact of

persuading someone or of being
persuaded to do or believe something.

Argumentation: The process of

establishing a claim and then proving it
with the use of logical reasoning,
examples, and research. 4
 Difference between
Persuasive and Argumentative Essay
A persuasive essay An argumentative
essay
 May make a claim based on opinion
 May not take opposing ideas into
account  Makes claims based on factual
 Persuades by appealing to the evidence (research)
audience’s emotion or by relying on  Makes counterclaims – the author
the character or credentials of the takes opposing views into account.
writer  Neutralizes or “defeats” serious
opposing ideas
 Emotion-based  Convinces audience through the
merit and rationality of the claim
and proofs offered

 Logic-based
5
 Elements of Argumentation

Argument/Claim

An argument states a claim and

supports it with reasons and
evidence from sources.

Arguing your side makes you the

proponent.
6
 Elements of Argumentation

Counterargument/Counterclaim

An argument that stands in opposition to

your argument/claim. The
counterargument is your opponent’s (the
other side’s) argument that tries to
explains why you are wrong.

7
 Elements of Argumentation

Refutation
Simply disproving an opposing
argument. It is an important skill
because it is how a writer successfully
convinces the audience of the validity
of his/her own argument.

8
 Page 131. “Aggressive
Driving should be
avoided”

11/1/201
Free PowerPoint Template from www.brainybetty.com 9
9
 Read and analyze the sample argumentative essay
entitled “Aggressive Driving Should Be Avoided”.
After reading, complete the following table with the
information presented in it. Be guided by the questions
below.
Questions Information presented in the essay

1. What is the issue or

case?
2. What are the
statements (reasons)
that support the issue?
3. Which among the
statements
refute/oppose other
issue?
 Read and analyze the sample argumentative essay
entitled “Aggressive Driving Should Be Avoided”.
After reading, complete the following table with the
information presented in it. Be guided by the questions
below.
Questions Information presented in the essay

1. What is the issue or Aggressive Driving

case?
2. What are the
statements (reasons)
that support the issue?
3. Which among the
statements
refute/oppose other
issue?
 Questions Information presented
 in the essay

2. What 1. The first reason why

are the aggressive driving should be
statement avoided is it causes crashes.
2.Another reason why aggressive
s (reasons)
driving should be avoided is it
that causes injuries.
support 3.Aggressive driving also causes
the issue? fatalities.
4. Aggressive driving should be avoided
because it causes crashes, injuries and
fatalities. (Introduction)
 Read and analyze the sample argumentative essay
entitled “Aggressive Driving Should Be Avoided”.
After reading, complete the following table with the
information presented in it. Be guided by the questions
below.
Questions Information presented in the essay

3. Which among the Since the opening on the

statements North-South Highway, the
refute/oppose other number of kilometers of
issue? roads in the country has
increased by one percent
while the number of
vehicle miles driven has
increased by 35 percent.
 11/1/201
Free PowerPoint Template from www.brainybetty.com 14
9
Aggressive Driving Should Be Avoided
Aggressive driving is a phenomenon, which
has only recently got the public worried. The
National Highway Traffic Safety Council (NHTSC)
defines aggressive driving as the “operation of a
motor vehicle in a manner that endangers or is
likely to endanger persons or property.” Actions
such as running red lights, improper passing,
overtaking on the left, improper lane change,
failing to yield, improper turns, running stop signs,
tailgating, careless driving, and speeding are
examples of aggressive driving. Such actions are
dangerous to other road users. Aggressive driving
should be avoided because it causes crashes,
injuries and fatalities.
15
 The first reason why aggressive driving
should be avoided is it causes crashes.
According to NHTSC, between 78 percent
(excessive speed) and 100 percent
(improper passing) of the cases of aggressive
driving resulted in traffic crashes and 96
percent of the drivers cited for “following too
closely” or tailgaiting caused crashes as a
result of their aggressive driving. Moreover,
“running red light,” “improper passing,” and
“overtaking on the left” topped other
categories of aggressive driving in contributing
to traffic crashes.
16
 Another reason why aggressive
driving should be avoided is it
causes injuries. NHTSC states that
the percentages of the injuries
caused by aggressive driving are, in
almost all categories of aggressive
driving, above 100 percent.

17
 Aggressive driving also causes
fatalities. “Overtaking on the left”
appears to be the most important
contributing factor in traffic fatalities
as it relates to aggressive driving.
“Improper lane change,” “running
stop sign,” and “running red light”
rank second through four in terms of
their contribution to traffic fatalities.
18
 The above evidence shows that
aggressive driving causes crashes, injuries and
fatalities. Hence, aggressive driving should
be avoided. Since the opening on the North-
South Highway, the number of kilometers of
roads in the country has increased by one
percent while the number of vehicle miles
driven has increased by 35 percent. More cars
and more drivers are also on the road leading
to more aggressive drivers.
19
PARTS of ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY

 INTRODUCTION

First is the introductory paragraph. It

introduces the problem and gives the
background information needed for
the argument and the thesis
statement.
Identification of the parts of the
essay.
 It starts with an Introduction,
which offers a definition of
aggressive driving (1), (2), and (3)
and further explains the issue (4).
Finally it ends with the
premise/thesis statement which
clearly states the stand taken by
the writer (5).
PARTS of ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY

BODY
 The body of the essay contains the
reasons. Each paragraph talks about one
reason. The reason is included in the
topic sentence and is supported by
details or materials. These supporting
materials can be examples, statistics,
personal experiences, or quotations.
Identification of the parts of
the essay.
 As the three reasons are stated in the premise, there
are three body paragraphs; each mentioning one
reason. Each paragraphs starts with a topic sentence
which states one of these reasons (6), (9) and (13, 11).
Each of these reason is supported by supporting details:
(7) and (8) in the second paragraph; (10), (11,12) and
(12,13) in the third paragraph; and (14,15) and (15) in
the fourth paragraph which is the final body.
PARTS of ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY
CONCLUSION

 Theconclusion restates the main

claim and gives one or two general
statements that exactly summarize
the arguments and support the main
premise.
 Identification of the parts of
the essay.
 The last paragraph of the essay is the conclusion.
It summarizes the three reasons stated in the
premise (15,14). The conclusion restates the
stand taken by the writer, that is aggressive
driving should be avoided (14,17). Sentence (18,
16) and (19, 17) are general statements which
support the main premise. These are optional.
 It should be noted that this essay uses statistics
to support the main idea. This lends credibility to
the argument.
 In argumentative writing, you need to convince your
readers to agree with your point of view or opinion.

 The writer use strong evidence.

 Reveal that the writer use statistics from the NHTSC and
the DHS (dept. of Highway Safety) -------two well
respected organizations to support his opinions. Statistics
from very reliable sources as those used provide very
strong evidence which can easily sway the readers to the
writer’s point of view. There are different sources of
evidence that can be used in argumentative essays.
Besides statistics published by reliable source, research
findings examples and opinions of experts in their fields
are some of the source of evidence. You also can use
forceful words to state your opinions, their views about
the issue being discussed. There are many examples of
such words in the essay.
 STATING COUNTERARGUMENTS

 When a topic is argumentative, it contains opposing views

or opinions. There can be ideas or points for (pro) which
can support the issue being discussed, or ideas or points
against (con/contra) which disagree with the issue. This
being the case, you should make it a point To State
Opinions That Oppose Yours. By doing this you are telling
the reader that you have considered the opposing views.
These opposing statements that you make should be brief.
They should not be as detailed as your own views.(Its not
your thing to put emphasis on.) Usually this is mentioned
near that end of the essay.
  The formats below can be used in the final
examination. You can choose either one.

Paragraph I Introduction

Paragraph II Pro (your view)

Paragraph III Pro (your view)

Paragraph IV Con (opposing View)

Paragraph V Conclusion
Paragraph I Introduction

Paragraph II Con (opposing view)

Paragraph III Con (opposing view)

Paragraph IV Pro (your view)

Paragraph V Conclusion
 Toshow the readers that the
opposing views are not yours, you
can introduce these ideas with the
following phrases:
It is believed that….
It is commonly thought that…
It is often said that …
Some people say that …
Some people think that…
Another argument against this is …
It is/has been argued that…
 Once introduce the opposing view, using the
above phrases, you have to disprove or rebut
(prove wrong by using evidence/arguments)it.
You must show why this opposing view cannot be
accepted. If you do this, your argument will have
more credibility. Some common techniques for
dealing with opposing views are:
 Providesolutions to the problems raised through the
opposing views
 Pointout the weaknesses that may exist in the
counterarguments; and
 Make concessions(to say that you accept/do not deny
the truth) to the opposing views
 Presenting both sides of the
argument so as the audience can
form their own opinion.

 Itis a challenge in writing a good

argumentative to be open minded
even if you knew which side to
support.
The Rhetorical Triangle – remember
me?
Don’t forget to incorporate elements of ethos, pathos, and logos.

33
 Why is Organization Important
in Argument Writing?

 Guides an audience through your

reasoning process

 Offers a clear explanation of each

argued point

 Demonstrates the credibility of the

writer 34
 Organizing Your Argument
 Title
 Introduction
• Thesis statement
 Body Paragraphs
• Constructing Topic
Sentences
• Building Main Points
• Countering the
Opposition 35

 Conclusion
 Title: Why You Need One

 Introduces the topic of discussion

to the audience

 Generates reader interest in the

argument

36
 Creating a Title
 Try to grab attention by:
• offering a provocative image
• picking up on words or examples
offered in the body or conclusion of
the paper
• asking a question

 Avoid titles that are too general or lack

character
37
 Practice

 Look at the Model Argument Essay.

 Read the title.
 Turn to your partner and discuss the
effectiveness of the title.
 Be prepared to share.

38
 What is an Introduction?
 Acquaints the reader with the topic and
purpose of the paper
 Generates the audience’s interest in the
topic

 Offers a plan for the ensuing argument:

Introduction: Tell them what you’re going
to tell them
Body: Tell them
Conclusion: Tell them what you told
39

them
Methods for Constructing an
Introduction

 personal anecdote
 example-real or hypothetical
 question
 quotation
 shocking statistics
 striking image
40
 Practice

Look at the Model Argument Essay.

Read the Introduction.
After reading the introduction, do
you know what the writer plans to
tell you in his argument essay?
Share with a different partner and
explain your position.

41
 What is a Thesis Statement?

 The MOST IMPORTANT SENTENCE in

your paper
 Lets the reader know the main idea
of the paper
 Answers the question: “What am I
trying to prove?”
 Not a factual statement, but a claim
that has to be proven throughout the
paper 42
 Thesis Practice
Which thesis statement is the most effective for an argument about the need for
V-chips in television sets?

 Parents, often too busy to watch television shows with their families, can
monitor their children’s viewing habits with the aid of the V-chip.

 To help parents monitor their children’s viewing habits, the V-chip should be a
required feature for television sets sold in the U.S.

 This paper will describe a V-chip and examine the uses of the V-chip in
American-made television sets.

43
 Practice
 Take your Model Argument Essay.
 Close read the first paragraph.
 Identify and highlight the Thesis Statement
 Does the thesis statement
- Let you know the main idea of the paper?
- Answer the question: “What am I trying to
prove?”
- Is the thesis statement not a factual
statement, but a claim that has to be proven
throughout the paper?
 Be prepared to share your answer with your
partner or class. 44
 Body Paragraphs and Topic
Sentences
 Body paragraphs build upon the claims made
in the introductory paragraph(s).
 Organize with the use of topic sentences
that illustrate the main idea of each
paragraph.
 Offering a brief explanation of the history or
recent developments of topic within the
early body paragraphs can help the
audience to become familiarized with your
topic and the complexity of the issue.
45
 Body Paragraphs

 Paragraphs may be ordered in several

ways, depending upon the topic and
purpose of your argument:
• General to specific information
• Most important point to least
important point
• Weakest claim to strongest claim

46
 Offering a Counterargument

 Addressing the claims of the opposition is

an important component in building a
convincing argument.
 It demonstrates your credibility as a
writer – you have researched multiple
sides of the argument and have come to
an informed decision.
 It shows you have considered other points
of view – that other points of view are
valid and reasonable. 47
 Effective Counterarguments
 Consider your audience when you address
the counterargument.
 Conceding to some of your opposition’s
concerns can demonstrate respect for
their opinions.
 Remain tactful yet firm.
• Using rude or deprecating language can
cause your audience to reject your
position without carefully considering
your claims. 48
 Placement of a
Counterargument
 Counterarguments may be located at
various locations within your body
paragraphs.
 You may choose to:
• build each of your main points as a
contrast to oppositional claims.
• offer a counterargument after you have
articulated your main claims.

49
Organizing Ideas into an Outline

50
 Research in Body Paragraphs

 Researched material can aid you in

proving the claims of your argument
and disproving oppositional claims.
 Be sure to use your research to
support the claims made in your
topic sentences – make your research
work to prove your argument.
51
 Conclusion
 Your conclusion should reemphasize the main
points made in your paper.
 You may choose to reiterate a call to action or
speculate on the future of your topic, when
appropriate.
 Avoid raising new claims in your conclusion.
Introduction: Tell them what you’re going to
tell them
Body: Tell them
Conclusion: Tell them what you told them
52
 Recap: Organizing Your
Argument
 Title
 Introduction
• Thesis statement
 Body Paragraphs
• Constructing Topic
Sentences
• Building Main Points
• Countering the
Opposition 53

 Conclusion
 Key Terms to Learn
1. a person who disagrees with
Argumentation 2___
something and speaks against it
2. the act or process of forming
5
Refutation _____ reasons, drawing conclusions, and
applying them to a case in
discussion
6 3. point or statement that
Proponent _____
supports one’s ideas and/or thesis
1
4. point or statement in
Opponent _____ opposition to the argument being
made in a written document or
speech
Counter Argument (CON) 4 5. the process of discrediting the
____ arguments that oppose your thesis
3 statement 54

6. someone who argues in favor of

Pro Argument (PRO) _____
 Practice
Close Read the Model Argument Essay. While
marking the text, specifically highlight the
Claim
Counterarguments/Counterclaims
Refutation
 Does the conclusion meet the
requirements? What changes, if any, would
you make?

55
Check the web site:
http://owl.english.purdue.edu
for further info.

56
Aggressive Driving Should Be Avoided
Aggressive driving is a phenomenon, which
has only recently got the public worried. The
National Highway Traffic Safety Council (NHTSC)
defines aggressive driving as the “operation of a
motor vehicle in a manner that endangers or is
likely to endanger persons or property.” Actions
such as running red lights, improper passing,
overtaking on the left, improper lane change,
failing to yield, improper turns, running stop signs,
tailgating, careless driving, and speeding are
examples of aggressive driving. Such actions are
dangerous to other road users. Aggressive driving
should be avoided because it causes crashes,
injuries and fatalities.
57
 The first reason why aggressive driving
should be avoided is it causes crashes.
According to NHTSC, between 78 percent
(excessive speed) and 100 percent
(improper passing) of the cases of aggressive
driving resulted in traffic crashes and 96
percent of the drivers cited for “following too
closely” or tailgaiting caused crashes as a
result of their aggressive driving. Moreover,
“running red light,” “improper passing,” and
“overtaking on the left” topped other
categories of aggressive driving in contributing
to traffic crashes.
58
 Another reason why aggressive
driving should be avoided is it
causes injuries. NHTSC states that
the percentages of the injuries
caused by aggressive driving are, in
almost all categories of aggressive
driving, above 100 percent.

59
 Aggressive driving also causes
fatalities. “Overtaking on the left”
appears to be the most important
contributing factor in traffic fatalities
as it relates to aggressive driving.
“Improper lane change,” “running
stop sign,” and “running red light”
rank second through four in terms of
their contribution to traffic fatalities.
60
 The above evidence shows that
aggressive driving causes crash injuries and
fatalities. Hence, aggressive driving should
be avoided. Since the opening on the North-
South Highway, the number of kilometers of
roads in the country has increased by one
percent while the number of vehicle miles
driven has increased by 35 percent. More cars
and more drivers are also on the road leading
to more aggressive drivers.
61