Argument Essay

 

Video!  Think about an ARGUMENT ESSAY

Argument Essay Basics from OWL

CSET
C = Claim or standpoint
S = Set up - contains info about evidence. 
E - Evidence. Include a clear quote from the text that backs up your claim
T - Tie in sentence that links the quote/evidence to the standpoint/claim

To write an argument essay, you’ll need to gather evidence and present a well-reasoned argument on a debatable issue.
How can I tell if my topic is debatable? Check your thesis!  You cannot argue a statement of fact, you must base your paper on a strong position. Ask yourself…

• How many people could argue against my position?  What would they say?
• Can it be addressed with a yes or no? (aim for a topic that requires more info.)
• Can I base my argument on scholarly evidence, or am I relying on religion, cultural standards, or morality? (you MUST be able to do quality research!)
• Have I made my argument specific enough?

Worried about taking a firm stance on an issue?

Though there are plenty of times in your life when it’s best to adopt a balanced perspective and try to understand both sides of a debate, this isn’t one of them.
You MUST choose one side or the other when you write an argument paper!
Don’t be afraid to tell others exactly how you think things should go because that’s what we expect from an argument paper.  You’re in charge now, what do YOU think?

Do…	Don’t…
…use passionate language	…use weak qualifiers like “I believe,” “I feel,” or “I think”—just tell us!
…cite experts who agree with you	…claim to be an expert if you’re not one
…provide facts, evidence, and statistics to support your position	…use strictly moral or religious claims as support for your argument
…provide reasons to support your claim	…assume the audience will agree with you about any aspect of your argument
…address the opposing side’s argument and refute their claims	…attempt to make others look bad (i.e. Mr. Smith is ignorant—don’t