English essay

I. Description

1. An argumentative essay contains an introductory paragraph providing background information about the debatable subject, organized from general to particular related information, followed by the argumentative thesis statement. Additional body paragraphs contain evidence, statistics, emotional anecdote and the opposing viewpoint with counterargument. The concluding paragraph restates the student’s position and makes a call to action or agreement. An argumentative essay is useful for persuading and is fundamental to success in college and the workplace. When writing an argumentative essay, use your own words and quote reliable sources supported by statistics, evidence and emotional stories. The instructor will assign the topic and provide the article.

II. Structure

The steps for writing an argumentative essay are:

A) Introduction Paragraph

1. The first sentences of the argumentative essay establish the background for the subject, organized from general to particular details.

2. Include a sentence which establishes common ground with the opposing viewpoint.

3. The final statement of the argumentative essay contains the thesis statement, which should declare the student’s debatable opinion on the subject.

B) Paragraphs 2-4

1. The topic sentences of each body paragraph should include statistics, logical evidence, emotional anecdote, and an opposing view to the argument.

2. In each body paragraph, the subsequent sentences should refer specifically to the topic sentence with supportive details given in the form of quotes from reliable sources, personal narrative, convincing evidence and reasonable explanations to support the thesis.

C) Paragraph 5/Conclusion Paragraph

1. Finally, the argument should conclude with a restatement of the student’s viewpoint, with more specific references, and a call to action or agreement. The conclusion can warn of consequences of inaction, or can point to future possibilities for positive change.

III. Requirements

1. Length 750-1000 words, 3 to 4 pages