Argumentative Writing Terms

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Writing process

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a series of actions taken by writers to move from an assignment or idea to a polished product.

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Introduction

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The opening of an essay. Its purpose is to inform your audience about the topic of your essay, and to state your opinion or stance (if any) about the stated topic.

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Body Paragraphs

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Body paragraphs explore the main points of your argument, presenting and explaining key evidence. Placed after the introduction and before the conclusion

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Conclusion

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This is the final paragraph that summarizes the main points and reinforces the essay's overall argument or purpose

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Claim

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The central argument or thesis statement that the writer is trying to prove. It's the main point the essay will explore and support with evidence and reasoning. Think of it as the writer's position on a particular issue or topic. 

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Counter-argument

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A section in your essay that describes the other side of the issue (what would someone say who disagrees with your position?)

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Concession

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A literary device used in argumentative writing, where one acknowledges a point made by one's opponent.

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Rebuttal

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Addresses the opposing viewpoint, acknowledges its validity to some extent, and then provides evidence or reasoning to demonstrate why the opposing viewpoint is ultimately flawed or less compelling than the writer's own argument

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Thesis

(Argumentative)

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Main argument (the side you chose) +reason why #1 +reason why #2