Argumentative Essays

The argumentative essay requires research. You need to investigate the topic and collect and evaluate evidence. You must learn about and understand different points of view, choose a position and support it with evidence. Finally, you must establish a clear thesis statement.

It is also important that you are able to convince your reader. To be able to do this, you need to know how to build a convincing argumentation and understand rhetorical devices such as ethos, logos and pathos.

The thesis statement or main claim must be debatable. In other words, the thesis must be something that we can have differing opinions about. If your thesis is something that is generally agreed upon or accepted as a fact, there is no reason to try to argue or persuade people. Also your thesis statement should be narrow. Generally the narrower the thesis the more effective your argument will be. Thinking about how you want to approach your topic, i.e. what type of claim you want to make, is one way to focus your thesis statement.

Both Sides of the Issue

Present both sides of the issue. Having presented your own arguments, point out who might see the issue differently and why. Choose one of the strongest counter arguments or most common arguments against your position. Give your opposition a fair trial by explaining their point of view. Use words such as "while," "although," and "however" to introduce competing points of view.

Cause and Effect

Cause and effect is when one thing happens and then a second thing happens as a direct result of the first. These claims argue that one person, thing, or event caused another thing or event to occur.

Compare and Contrast

When you compare and contrast you find what is similar and what is different.

Introduction: Set the context and state your thesis statement. Identify the controversy or debate you are addressing and define your position.

Main Body: Each paragraph must include evidence to support your thesis statement. Use facts and statistics (logos) to support your arguments. You should also include different opinions on the topic to show that you are familiar with other points of view, but explain why your arguments are better.

Conclusion: Readdress your thesis statement in the light of the evidence you have provided.