Argumentative Writing Guide

Argumentative Writing

By Isabella Fischer

Introduction

Hook:
Start with an intriguing question or idea. Lots of readers will need something special to connect to.

Introduction

Hook Example:
Do you think schools should encourage students to follow their dreams and passions?

Introduction

Background Information:

Describe the issue and why it's important.

Introduction

Background Information Example:
Reading with others allows students to share ideas, gain new perspectives, and develop a deeper love for books. Plus, book clubs create a sense of community where students can connect with peers who have similar interests.

Introduction

Opposing claim:

Briefly address an opposing view point.

Introduction

Opposing claim example:

People may argue that clubs take away too much time from core subjects, but these clubs actually inhance learning.

Introduction

Thesis statement or main idea/claim example:
Schools should provide more opportunities for _____ because it fosters creativity, increases motivation, and prepares them for future success.

Introduction

Thesis statement or main idea/claim:
This statement makes a clear claim and provides reasons that will be explained in the body paragraphs.

Introduction

Final example:
Do you think schools should encourage students to follow their dreams and passions? One way Pineville Middle School could do this is by adding a book club. Reading with others allows students to share ideas, gain new perspectives, and develop a deeper love for books. Plus, book clubs create a sense of community where students can connect with peers who have similar interests. People may argue that clubs take away too much time from core subjects, but these clubs actually inhance learning. Schools should provide more opportunities for students to read in clubs because it fosters creativity, increases motivation, and prepares them for future success.

Body Paragraphs 1-3

Start with a transition word for each body paragraph.

The first way this benefits students is by,
An additional benefit is that,
Lastly,
Finally,
Next,
Furthermore,

Body Paragraphs 1-3 Example

• Restate the Main Idea:

  Therefore, [main idea of paragraph] clearly supports the argument that...

• Emphasize the Importance:
  This strongly illustrates why [main idea of paragraph] plays a crucial role in proving...

• Final Thought:
  Given these facts, it is evident that [main idea of paragraph] is essential to understanding why ___ is true."

Body Paragraph 4

Counter-argument and rebuttal
Many people may think...
Some may feel differently about...
One might object here that...

Counter-claim example

1. Introduce the Opposing Claim

Acknowledge the other side’s argument in a respectful and neutral way and explain why their point matters.

Example:

Some people believe that schools should focus only on core subjects like math and science instead of encouraging students to follow their passions.

Counter-claim example

2. Provide Evidence to Support Their Side

Use facts, examples, or expert opinions to Quote from the source to support their fact.)

Example:

According to ____, "students who focus on subjects they are passionate about forget about their core class studies."

Counter-claim example

3. Justification: (explanation of how the evidence supports the counterclaim; the last part of the justification should transition back to how your claim is stronger than the counterclaim)

Example:

Due to [evidence], this perspective fails to consider [rebuttal], ultimately reinforcing that [your claim] is the stronger argument because [reason].

Counter-claim example

4. Rebuttal: Transition Back to Your Argument

End by reinforcing your position.

Example:

This is why schools should balance core subjects with opportunities for students to explore their interests, ensuring both academic success and personal growth.

Counter-claim example

5. Provide Evidence to Support Your Side

Use facts, examples, or expert opinions to strengthen your argument.

Example:

Studies show that students who engage in subjects they are passionate about perform better overall and develop critical thinking skills useful in all areas of life.

Counter-claim example

6. Reinforce your argument

Explain why the opposing argument is flawed or not as strong as your position.

Example:

However, ignoring students’ interests can make learning feel dull and unengaging, leading to lower motivation and performance.

Counter-claim example

7. Conclusion sentence for the paragraph

Example:

Therefore, providing students with opportunities to follow their passions, like through book clubs, can create a more engaging and rewarding learning environment.

Counter-claim example

Some people believe that schools should focus only on core subjects like math and science instead of encouraging students to follow their passions. According to ____, "students who focus on subjects they are passionate about forget about their core class studies." Due to [evidence], this perspective fails to consider [rebuttal], ultimately reinforcing that [your claim] is the stronger argument because [reason]. This is why schools should balance core subjects with opportunities for students to explore their interests, ensuring both academic success and personal growth. Studies show that students who engage in subjects they are passionate about perform better overall and develop critical thinking skills useful in all areas of life. However, ignoring students’ interests can make learning feel dull and unengaging, leading to lower motivation and performance. Therefore, providing students with opportunities to follow their passions, like through book clubs, can create a more engaging and rewarding learning environment.

Conclusion

Restate thesis in a different way
Restate claims/reasons
Final statements (Make it memorable)

Conclusion Example

In conclusion, Pineville Middle School would greatly benefit from a makerspace for three main reasons. Building a makerspace in our school would create a way for students to develop creative skills that would help them in their futures. It would give them a chance to explore new passions and industries. A makerspace would also encourage teamwork and problem-solving, skills that are essential for success in any career. By giving students hands-on learning experiences, the school would be preparing them for the challenges of the real world. The goal of our studies at school is to help us reach our potential, and research in the fields of STEM and conversations with our own teachers show that the addition of a makerspace is a powerful opportunity for our school!