THE ARGUMENTATIVE OR PERSUASIVE ESSAY

Mr.Wilson – LMAC - English

What is a Persuasive/Argument Essay?

“Persuasive writing, also known as the argument essay, utilizes logic and reason to show that one idea is more legitimate than another idea. It attempts to persuade a reader to adopt a certain point of view or to take a particular action. The argument must always use sound reasoning and solid evidence by stating facts, giving logical reasons, using examples, and quoting experts.”

Planning your Essay

1. First – choose a topic you are actually interested in.

Examples?

Planning your Essay

2. Choose your position:Pick a side

Provide a solution

Know the purpose of your essay

3. Know your audience: Will they agree, be neutral, or disagree with your position?

Age? Culture? Pop references? EMOTIONAL RESPONSE?

Planning your Essay

4. Research your topic:Must include specific and relevant evidence

The more you research – the more convincing

5. Structure your Essay: Once you have your evidence, what order will it be presented in?

Always keep in mind your purpose, your audience and your topic.

Basic Structure Introduction

Your introduction should hook your reader's attention and provide background information on your topic or controversy.

The paragraph should end with a clear statement of your main idea or point of view.

Body paragraphs Your body paragraphs should present the points in support of your main idea. Each body paragraph should focus on one point. Be sure to provide evidence or examples for each point.

Opposing view After presenting your supporting points, develop one paragraph to accurately

explain and then refute the most significant opposing view.

Conclusion Creatively restate your main idea and supporting points. Try to leave your audience even more connected to your topic and persuaded

by your main idea or perspective.

Essential Criteria

1. Use Legitimate Sources:Be very careful! The internet is a difficult place to find reliable sources for supporting evidence.

Books are better – interviews are awesome!

2. Test your Thesis: Is there a counter argument to your own?

Is it debatable?

Essential Criteria

3. Disprove the Opposition:Understanding the opposite viewpoint of your position. Counter it by providing contrasting evidence.

4. Support your Position with Evidence:

Remember that your evidence must appeal to reason!

Evidence without context is not evidence.

Different Types of Evidence

Facts: Very convincing, but they require research. Not the same as a “truth” – which is simply

something everyone believes but cannot be proven.

Statistics: Must be from responsible sources – and explained.

Quotes: Make sure they are from reputable sources.

Examples: Make your ideas concrete by providing proof.

1. http://essayinfo.com/essays/persuasive_essay.php2. http://www.writeexpress.com/persuasive-essay.html3.

Works Cited