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Writing the refutation (opposing) paragraph. Why do we need it?. When writing an argumentative essay, it is necessary to acknowledge the valid points of the opposing argument.
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Why do we need it? • When writing an argumentative essay, it is necessary to acknowledge the valid points of the opposing argument. • Not including a refutation paragraph makes the writer sound more narrow-minded and the essay becomes much less effective. An effective refutation paragraph helps the writer establishcredibility with the audience
Writing a strong refutation paragraph will help strengthen your essay because it shows that you have thoughtfully considered both sides of the argument before arriving at your argumentative position.
Be careful though…! • Picking a valid and strong point of your opponent’s argument helps you if you can effectively refute it. If you can’t, then pick another point to refute. • Don’t let your opposing argument sound better than your own!! • REFUTE, REFUTE, REFUTE!!!
4 parts of refutation paragraph • 1st: Introduce the opposing argument • Summarizes the opposition’s viewpoint openly and honestly • Some possible ways to begin: • But_____is not completely inaccurate • It is often argued that… • It is true that • Opposing views claim…
2nd: Acknowledge parts of the opposition that are valid: • Acknowledge that some of the opposition’s claims may be valid, but still show that your claims are stronger • Some possible ways to begin: • Admittedly,… • Certainly,… • Of course… • One cannot deny that… • At the same time…
3rd: Counter the argument: • Introduce the rebuttal; refute the opposition’s claims showing they are incorrect or inconsequential • Some possible ways to begin: • Nevertheless… • However… • On the other hand… • But…
4th: Introduce the conclusion: • Summarize why the opposition’s argument is not a sufficient solution • Some possible ways to begin: • Thus… • Therefore… • As a result…