argumentative

EH Division 1

Essay 3: Classical Argument Guided Drafting Guide Pt. 1 The purpose of this handout is to help you draft the final essay in the course: A Classical Argument. This worksheet focuses on the first three sections of the essay. You may fill in the blanks.

Remember the following:

Audience

Peers with an opposite or indifferent viewpoint than yours

Purpose

To convince and persuade with ethical/logical means

Subject

Issue that is debatable and arguable

Introduction

What is the issue/problem? Open with a quote, stat, or an interesting fact to catch reader’s attention and establish context of persuasion (this can wait until later on in the drafting process).

What is your claim on this issue? What is your position?

Why is this important? Why is your position important?

Why should the audience care? How does this issue impact this audience?

EH Division 2

Body Sections

Narration or Background

What is the history of your topic/issue/claim? Give the audience some background information. Provide research sources.

Begin maybe 5-10 years ago with your topic. What are some key events, topics, ideas (or people) that have happened to make your issue debatable and something to argue?

Definition of Position

How can you define your claim so the audience will understand? What is . . . ? This is a type of . . .? Define key words in your position statement that will help convince your audience to believe the way you do. Think about defining at least two words in your claim/position statement.

1. What does a dictionary source state?

2. How can you redefine using your terms?