Crafting an Effective Argument Essay: Building a Strong Case

1. Argument What is it and how do I write an argument essay?

2. Claim • A claim is something you are trying to prove; you want to convince your reader that it is true. • A claim is something that is arguable– there is a pro and a con viewpoint. • You wouldn’t use a claim to express an opinion or a personal preference. • It needs to be something important or something that matters. • Claims should be specific.

3. Good claim, Bad Claim, OR Not a Claim? 1. Utah is the best state in the country. 2. George Washington was the first president of the United States. 3. The Nebo School District should allow students to wear hats. 4. Pizza is the best food. 5. Drug use is detrimental to society. 6. Never wear white after Labor Day. 7. X-Box One has more advanced graphics than the PS4.

4. Evidence: Can you prove your claim? • A good argument begins with a controversy that requires research. • The research is likely to become evidence in an argument, and gives validity to the claim. • For claims to be credible, they must be supported with specific evidence. • For our purposes of writing argument, plan on finding at least 3 pieces of evidence that support your claim.

5. Counterargument • There are 2 points to a counterargument: 1. Acknowledge the opposing viewpoint. 2. Create a rebuttal to minimize the opposing viewpoint. • Why would you want to acknowledge the opposition? Acknowledging the opposing side gives your argument validity. It also shows that you have a complete understanding of the issue from all sides of the argument. In your counterargument, you should be able to refute or deny the opposing viewpoint.

6. Argument essay structure Introduction: Ends with claim Reason #2 Reason #3 Reason #1 Evidence to back it up Evidence to back it up Evidence to back it up Counterclaim: Acknowledgement and Rebuttal Conclusion

7. Let’s try it! • Introduction: One major issue has gotten out of control during passing periods, and it is causing many problems. Students are no longer safe and school property is no longer protected in the halls during passing periods. • Claim: Basketballs and other sports balls should not be allowed in the hallways of Salem Junior High. • Evidence: There has been $1500 damage to the ceilings and the floors from sports balls. • Evidence: Three students have been injured from balls in the hallways. • Evidence: The incidents of theft have increased from personal property being passed in the hallway. • Counterargument: While students feel that they should be able to do what they want during their passing period, school rules that encourage order and protect other students will create a more effective, efficient learning environment for all students. • Conclusion: School is supposed to be a place where all students can feel safe and protected and that’s just not possible if Salem Junior High allows students to play with sports balls in the hallways of the school. Students should obey the school rule of no sports balls outside of the gym.

8. You try it! • Come up with a simple claim. Something that you think you could prove. • Turn to your neighbor and share. • What 3 pieces evidence could you provide to prove your claim? • Turn to your neighbor and share. • What could you use as a counterargument? • Turn to your neighbor and share.