AP Language Argument Essay

AP Argumentative Essay

​Items to Avoid

•You

•“In my opinion…”

•I think/feel/believe

•Contractions

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•“Always,” “Everyone”

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​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.​

Strong Thesis that Takes a Position

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Specific evidence from the text to support each claim.

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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?​

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

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!