The Argumentative Essay

1. The Argumentative Essay Everything you need to know to write one! A PowerPoint Presentation by Cara Gratton

2. Step One • Choose a controversial topic that interests you.

3. Step Two • Do some reading on the topic. Here is a website that might help you: www.gc.maricopa.edu/English/topicarg.html

4. Step Three • Write a thesis statement. • You may want to use one of the thesis statements provided at: www.gc.maricopa.edu/English/topicarg.html

5. Examples There are many reasons why pollution in ABC Town is the worst in the world. The topic is “pollution in ABC Town is the worst in the world” and the controlling idea is “many reasons.”

6. More Examples Topic Sentence: To be an effective CEO requires certain characteristics. The topic is “To be an effective CEO” and the controlling idea is certain characteristics. Topic Sentence: There are many possible contributing factors to global warming. The topic is "contributing factors to global warming" and the controlling factor is "many reasons." Topic Sentence: Fortune hunters encounter many difficulties when exploring a shipwreck. The topic is “exploring a shipwreck” and the controlling idea is “many difficulties.”

7. Step Four • Choose three ideas to support your argument.

8. Step Five • Consider the opposing arguments. If you were arguing with your friends, how would they try to prove you were wrong?

9. Step Six • Organize your ideas into an outline. Paragraph 1 – Introduction includes thesis statement and supporting ideas Paragraph 2 – Opposing argument and your refutation Paragraph 3 – Opposing argument and your refutation Paragraph 4 – Your strongest supporting argument Paragraph 5 – Conclusion includes restatement of thesis and supporting ideas. Make a prediction, a recommendation, or a summary.

10. Step 7 • Follow your outline and write the essay. • Be sure to edit your writing for grammar, spelling, and word choice errors. • Good Luck!