Format for Argumentative Essays
Please know that various format exist in advancing an argument, so this one is to help towards producing a well-organized argumentative paper. Follow the format below that we have already discussed in class. All examples to illustrate the format refer to this research question: Should abortion be illegal"
I. Paragraph 1: Provide a context for your topic
Explain the background of the problem. In other words, what are the problems that are associated with this topic (the one you chose to write your paper on), and how do they impact society? (Cite a source that points to this issue). The last sentence in this paragraph should be a version of your research question in a statement form, such as
"Because of all these problems, we need to determine whether or not abortion should be illegal."
II. Paragraph 2: Introduction
First, accommodate the other side of the argument. In other words, concede the compelling reasons you know the arguers for the other side will give to defend their position. For example, assuming that your position on the issue is that Abortion should be illegal, some of the reasons the opposing side will provide are that abortion should legal in case of "rape" and "incest."
To accommodate, therefore, admit that "rape" and "incest" do happen and sometimes lead to pregnancies. This would seem as if you are arguing against your position, but you are not. Essentially, you are simply establishing your understanding of the opponents' point of view.
Second, the sentence that follows your accommodation should be your position (thesis), and it must begin with an appropriate transition, such as "even though," "however," or "in spite of." Finally, state at least three reasons expressed in three separate sentences linked by transitions.
III. Paragraphs 3, 4, 5 . . . Body of the paper
In each of your body paragraphs, state your reason, then explain it, and relate it to your position. Then directly cite a relevant source (evidence) to support your reason and show how your quotation is related to you reason. Thereafter, anticipate an objection to your stated reason and evidence and refute it as we discussed in class. Cite three sources here, one for each of the evidences (all three of them must be scholarly journal articles).
IV. Conclusion Paragraph: As for your conclusion, it is not enough to just summarize. As we discussed in class, a conclusion, among other things, must always call your audience/reader to action. In the case of an argument in particular, as in your essay, you need to tell the readers specifically what they must do to be sure, for example, "abortion becomes illegal."
Note:
In some cases, some would require a seventh paragraph where the writer could rebut all points that need to be. In other words, instead of rebutting in each of the body paragraphs, this the paragraph it is ideal to do so. Please know that you have that choice.