AP Language Argument Essay

AP Argumentative Essay

By Heidi Speece

​What does it mean to "qualify?"

You are demonstrating there are two sides to the argument in SOME cases. You believe XYZ the majority of the time, but sometimes ABC is correct in certain situations.

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Example: Freedom of Speech should be protected unless it puts another person in physical danger.​

Open Ended

Write a thesis statement for this prompt.

Open Ended

List two pieces of evidence you could use from literature, history, science, and current events to defend your answer. Do not give personal examples.

Strong Thesis that Takes a Position

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Several pieces of evidence to support each claim. Don't rely solely on one piece of evidence.

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Counterargument

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"So what" statement in the conclusion​

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​Must Include!

Open Ended

In your own words, what does "counterargument" mean to you?

However!

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​Argue against the point in the concession. Don't forget this step!

​Refutation

Some might say...

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You concede that there is another side to the argument.​

Concession

Counterargument

​The "so what" statement

Why should we care about this topic?

What can we learn from this topic?

How has the text impacted society or revealed a general truth?

Why has the text endured?​

​Items to Avoid

•You

•“In my opinion…”

•I think/feel/believe

•Contractions

•“Always,” “Everyone," "Never"

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Multiple Choice

Which of the following should you NOT include in your essay?

• I think, I feel, I believe

• You

• Always, Everyone

• Avoid all of them!

Multiple Choice

Which of the following MUST I include in my essay?

• A thesis that states a strong position

• Specific Evidence

• Counterargument

• All of them

Multiple Choice

I should give myself about 40 minutes to write this essay.

• True

• False

Poll

After today's lesson, how do you feel about the argumentative essay?

• Got it!

• I still have a few questions, but I feel pretty good.

• I'm so lost!