Discussion

Composing an Argumentative Essay: A Guide for Freshman College Students

1. Introduction Begin with a hook, an engaging statement that grabs attention. Introduce

the topic and provide background information to set the stage. State your thesis, the

core argument of your essay, clearly. This thesis should outline your position on the

topic and preview the arguments you will make.

2. My Argument Assert your main argument confidently. Explain why you believe in your

position, and outline the structure of your essay. This is where you set the reader’s

expectations for the arguments and evidence that will follow.

3. Source 1/Facet 1 of My Argument Present your first piece of evidence or the first aspect

of your argument. Introduce a source that supports your thesis. Summarize the key

points of the source, how it supports your argument, and discuss its significance. Ensure

that the information is presented in a logical order and clearly links back to your thesis.

4. Source 2/Facet 2 of My Argument/Discussion of Relevant Counterargument Bring in

the second source or aspect of your argument. After explaining how it fortifies your

position, acknowledge a related counterargument. This shows that you have considered

other perspectives. Explain the counterargument fairly and without bias.

5. Source 1 for Counterargument/Main Objection Identify a strong source that presents

the primary objection to your argument. Summarize the counterargument's main

points, providing the context necessary for your readers to understand why someone

might disagree with you.

6. Refutation of Counterargument 1 Refute the first counterargument by showing flaws in

its logic, evidence, or by providing additional information. This can include more.

supportive evidence from your sources or logical reasoning that diminishes the

counterargument’s impact.

7. Refutation of Counterargument 2 Tackle a second counterargument with a similar

approach, further solidifying your position. Always ensure that your refutations are.

respectful and based on evidence or strong reasoning.

8. Conclusion for Why My Position is Better Summarize the main points that demonstrate

the superiority of your position over the counterarguments. This is a synthesis of your

arguments, not just a restatement.

9. Conclusion on Why My Argument Will Give Us a Better Future Conclude by broadening

the perspective, showing the implications of your argument for the future. Why does

your argument matters? Connect it to larger social, moral, or philosophical issues and

end with a strong final statement that underlines the importance and potential impact.

of your position.

Tips for Freshman Students:

• Keep paragraphs focused: one main idea per paragraph.

• Be concise: use clear and direct language.

• Cite sources responsibly: always give credit to the original authors.

• Revise and edit: good writing is rewriting