Argumentative essays

An argumentative essay is an essay in which you agree or disagree with an issue, using reasons to support your opinion. Your goal is to convince your reader that your opinion is right. Argumentation is a popular kind of essay question because it forces students to think on their own: They have to take a stand on an issue, support their stand with solid reasons, and support their reasons with solid evidence.

In a general writing test such as the IELTS or TOEFL examinations, you might encounter questions such as these:

The U.S. Declaration of Independence states, “All men are created equal.” Agree or disagree with this statement. Support your opinion with reasons and examples.

The most important element in a friendship is trust. Agree or disagree with this statement. Support your opinion with reasons and examples.

In an academic class, your instructor might ask a question such as this:

Criminal justice Some cities in the United States and the United Kingdom have passed laws establishing curfews for young people. Young people (usually age 17 and younger) may not be out on the streets after 9 or 10 p.m. Do you agree or disagree with such curfews?

What is unique about an argumentative essay is that you do not just give reasons to support your point of view. You must also discuss the other reasons and then rebut them. (Rebut means to point out problems with the other side’s reasons to prove that they are not good reasons.) We do this because we want readers to know that we have considered all sides of the issue. When we show that we are reason­able and open-minded, readers are more likely to listen to our point of view.

Choose topic and write an argumentative essay.

[1] Agree or disagree with the following statement:

It is worth the expense and risk to make a manned flight to Mars.

Writing an argumentative essay requires especially careful planning.

Step 1 Clarify in your mind what the two sides of the argument are. Decide which side you agree with.

Step 2 Write a thesis statement. Your thesis statement can state either just your point of view or both points of view.

Step 3 Research the topic to get ideas and supporting reasons for both sides of the argument. Read the article and do the exercises for your topic before you begin this writing assignment. You should use quotations, summaries, or paraphrases from the appropriate parts of the readings to support your arguments.

Step 4 Write your first draft. Write an explanatory or an attention-getting introduction, as you prefer.

Step 5 Use the Self-Editing Worksheet and revise your essay if necessary.

Step 6 Exchange papers with a classmate. Review each other’s essays and complete the Peer-Editing.