Argumentative Essay

Standard: ELACC6W1

What is it?

An essay that is used to state and support claims written with clear reasons and relevant evidence.

Argumentative vs. Persuasive

An argumentative essay states the facts based on the writer’s claim or thesis

statement.A persuasive essay attempts to change

the reader’s opinion on a topic.

What is a thesis statement?

A thesis is a statement that can be disputed, confirmed, or unconfirmed.

A writer includes this in the introduction to state his/her claim.

Argumentative vs. Persuasive

An argumentative essay is written with a formal tone and in third

person throughout.

A persuasive essay is written with a more creative, personal tone and

uses first person throughout.

Conclusion for an Argumentative Essay

Your conclusion confirms that the evidence included proves the thesis statement. This should be a strong

paragraph that restates the thesis and summarizes the body paragraphs.

Let’s look at an example.

Should cell phones be allowed in schools?

Outline for Argumentative Essay

General Topic: ___________________________________________________________I. Introduction

A. Background information to introduce issue: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________B. Thesis statement, or your position on the issue. (full sentence)________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

II. Body Paragraph OneA. First supporting point (full sentence): _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________B. Evidence: support your point with facts and examples

a. b. c.

III. Body Paragraph TwoA. Second supporting point (full sentence): _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________B. Evidence: support you point with facts and examples

a. b. c.

IV. Body Paragraph ThreeA. Third supporting point (full sentence): ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________B. Evidence: support your point with facts and examples

a.b.c.

V. ConclusionA. Summarize body paragraphs and supporting points and comment on significance of

thesis. _______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________

B. Restate thesis.

Topic Choices

1. Should all U.S. citizens be required by law to vote?

2. Is it important to eat healthy foods?

3. Should students be required to take P.E.?

4. Does a family only consist of blood relatives?