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- 40 Useful Words and Phrases for Top-Notch Essays
To be truly brilliant, an essay needs to utilise the right language. You could make a great point, but if it’s not intelligently articulated, you almost needn’t have bothered.
Developing the language skills to build an argument and to write persuasively is crucial if you’re to write outstanding essays every time. In this article, we’re going to equip you with the words and phrases you need to write a top-notch essay, along with examples of how to utilise them.
It’s by no means an exhaustive list, and there will often be other ways of using the words and phrases we describe that we won’t have room to include, but there should be more than enough below to help you make an instant improvement to your essay-writing skills.
If you’re interested in developing your language and persuasive skills, Oxford Royale offers summer courses at its Oxford Summer School , Cambridge Summer School , London Summer School , San Francisco Summer School and Yale Summer School . You can study courses to learn english , prepare for careers in law , medicine , business , engineering and leadership.
General explaining
Let’s start by looking at language for general explanations of complex points.
1. In order to
Usage: “In order to” can be used to introduce an explanation for the purpose of an argument. Example: “In order to understand X, we need first to understand Y.”
2. In other words
Usage: Use “in other words” when you want to express something in a different way (more simply), to make it easier to understand, or to emphasise or expand on a point. Example: “Frogs are amphibians. In other words, they live on the land and in the water.”
3. To put it another way
Usage: This phrase is another way of saying “in other words”, and can be used in particularly complex points, when you feel that an alternative way of wording a problem may help the reader achieve a better understanding of its significance. Example: “Plants rely on photosynthesis. To put it another way, they will die without the sun.”
4. That is to say
Usage: “That is” and “that is to say” can be used to add further detail to your explanation, or to be more precise. Example: “Whales are mammals. That is to say, they must breathe air.”
5. To that end
Usage: Use “to that end” or “to this end” in a similar way to “in order to” or “so”. Example: “Zoologists have long sought to understand how animals communicate with each other. To that end, a new study has been launched that looks at elephant sounds and their possible meanings.”
Adding additional information to support a point
Students often make the mistake of using synonyms of “and” each time they want to add further information in support of a point they’re making, or to build an argument. Here are some cleverer ways of doing this.
6. Moreover
Usage: Employ “moreover” at the start of a sentence to add extra information in support of a point you’re making. Example: “Moreover, the results of a recent piece of research provide compelling evidence in support of…”
7. Furthermore
Usage:This is also generally used at the start of a sentence, to add extra information. Example: “Furthermore, there is evidence to suggest that…”
8. What’s more
Usage: This is used in the same way as “moreover” and “furthermore”. Example: “What’s more, this isn’t the only evidence that supports this hypothesis.”
9. Likewise
Usage: Use “likewise” when you want to talk about something that agrees with what you’ve just mentioned. Example: “Scholar A believes X. Likewise, Scholar B argues compellingly in favour of this point of view.”
10. Similarly
Usage: Use “similarly” in the same way as “likewise”. Example: “Audiences at the time reacted with shock to Beethoven’s new work, because it was very different to what they were used to. Similarly, we have a tendency to react with surprise to the unfamiliar.”
11. Another key thing to remember
Usage: Use the phrase “another key point to remember” or “another key fact to remember” to introduce additional facts without using the word “also”. Example: “As a Romantic, Blake was a proponent of a closer relationship between humans and nature. Another key point to remember is that Blake was writing during the Industrial Revolution, which had a major impact on the world around him.”
12. As well as
Usage: Use “as well as” instead of “also” or “and”. Example: “Scholar A argued that this was due to X, as well as Y.”
13. Not only… but also
Usage: This wording is used to add an extra piece of information, often something that’s in some way more surprising or unexpected than the first piece of information. Example: “Not only did Edmund Hillary have the honour of being the first to reach the summit of Everest, but he was also appointed Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire.”
14. Coupled with
Usage: Used when considering two or more arguments at a time. Example: “Coupled with the literary evidence, the statistics paint a compelling view of…”
15. Firstly, secondly, thirdly…
Usage: This can be used to structure an argument, presenting facts clearly one after the other. Example: “There are many points in support of this view. Firstly, X. Secondly, Y. And thirdly, Z.
16. Not to mention/to say nothing of
Usage: “Not to mention” and “to say nothing of” can be used to add extra information with a bit of emphasis. Example: “The war caused unprecedented suffering to millions of people, not to mention its impact on the country’s economy.”
Words and phrases for demonstrating contrast
When you’re developing an argument, you will often need to present contrasting or opposing opinions or evidence – “it could show this, but it could also show this”, or “X says this, but Y disagrees”. This section covers words you can use instead of the “but” in these examples, to make your writing sound more intelligent and interesting.
17. However
Usage: Use “however” to introduce a point that disagrees with what you’ve just said. Example: “Scholar A thinks this. However, Scholar B reached a different conclusion.”
18. On the other hand
Usage: Usage of this phrase includes introducing a contrasting interpretation of the same piece of evidence, a different piece of evidence that suggests something else, or an opposing opinion. Example: “The historical evidence appears to suggest a clear-cut situation. On the other hand, the archaeological evidence presents a somewhat less straightforward picture of what happened that day.”
19. Having said that
Usage: Used in a similar manner to “on the other hand” or “but”. Example: “The historians are unanimous in telling us X, an agreement that suggests that this version of events must be an accurate account. Having said that, the archaeology tells a different story.”
20. By contrast/in comparison
Usage: Use “by contrast” or “in comparison” when you’re comparing and contrasting pieces of evidence. Example: “Scholar A’s opinion, then, is based on insufficient evidence. By contrast, Scholar B’s opinion seems more plausible.”
21. Then again
Usage: Use this to cast doubt on an assertion. Example: “Writer A asserts that this was the reason for what happened. Then again, it’s possible that he was being paid to say this.”
22. That said
Usage: This is used in the same way as “then again”. Example: “The evidence ostensibly appears to point to this conclusion. That said, much of the evidence is unreliable at best.”
Usage: Use this when you want to introduce a contrasting idea. Example: “Much of scholarship has focused on this evidence. Yet not everyone agrees that this is the most important aspect of the situation.”
Adding a proviso or acknowledging reservations
Sometimes, you may need to acknowledge a shortfalling in a piece of evidence, or add a proviso. Here are some ways of doing so.
24. Despite this
Usage: Use “despite this” or “in spite of this” when you want to outline a point that stands regardless of a shortfalling in the evidence. Example: “The sample size was small, but the results were important despite this.”
25. With this in mind
Usage: Use this when you want your reader to consider a point in the knowledge of something else. Example: “We’ve seen that the methods used in the 19th century study did not always live up to the rigorous standards expected in scientific research today, which makes it difficult to draw definite conclusions. With this in mind, let’s look at a more recent study to see how the results compare.”
26. Provided that
Usage: This means “on condition that”. You can also say “providing that” or just “providing” to mean the same thing. Example: “We may use this as evidence to support our argument, provided that we bear in mind the limitations of the methods used to obtain it.”
27. In view of/in light of
Usage: These phrases are used when something has shed light on something else. Example: “In light of the evidence from the 2013 study, we have a better understanding of…”
28. Nonetheless
Usage: This is similar to “despite this”. Example: “The study had its limitations, but it was nonetheless groundbreaking for its day.”
29. Nevertheless
Usage: This is the same as “nonetheless”. Example: “The study was flawed, but it was important nevertheless.”
30. Notwithstanding
Usage: This is another way of saying “nonetheless”. Example: “Notwithstanding the limitations of the methodology used, it was an important study in the development of how we view the workings of the human mind.”
Giving examples
Good essays always back up points with examples, but it’s going to get boring if you use the expression “for example” every time. Here are a couple of other ways of saying the same thing.
31. For instance
Example: “Some birds migrate to avoid harsher winter climates. Swallows, for instance, leave the UK in early winter and fly south…”
32. To give an illustration
Example: “To give an illustration of what I mean, let’s look at the case of…”
Signifying importance
When you want to demonstrate that a point is particularly important, there are several ways of highlighting it as such.
33. Significantly
Usage: Used to introduce a point that is loaded with meaning that might not be immediately apparent. Example: “Significantly, Tacitus omits to tell us the kind of gossip prevalent in Suetonius’ accounts of the same period.”
34. Notably
Usage: This can be used to mean “significantly” (as above), and it can also be used interchangeably with “in particular” (the example below demonstrates the first of these ways of using it). Example: “Actual figures are notably absent from Scholar A’s analysis.”
35. Importantly
Usage: Use “importantly” interchangeably with “significantly”. Example: “Importantly, Scholar A was being employed by X when he wrote this work, and was presumably therefore under pressure to portray the situation more favourably than he perhaps might otherwise have done.”
Summarising
You’ve almost made it to the end of the essay, but your work isn’t over yet. You need to end by wrapping up everything you’ve talked about, showing that you’ve considered the arguments on both sides and reached the most likely conclusion. Here are some words and phrases to help you.
36. In conclusion
Usage: Typically used to introduce the concluding paragraph or sentence of an essay, summarising what you’ve discussed in a broad overview. Example: “In conclusion, the evidence points almost exclusively to Argument A.”
37. Above all
Usage: Used to signify what you believe to be the most significant point, and the main takeaway from the essay. Example: “Above all, it seems pertinent to remember that…”
38. Persuasive
Usage: This is a useful word to use when summarising which argument you find most convincing. Example: “Scholar A’s point – that Constanze Mozart was motivated by financial gain – seems to me to be the most persuasive argument for her actions following Mozart’s death.”
39. Compelling
Usage: Use in the same way as “persuasive” above. Example: “The most compelling argument is presented by Scholar A.”
40. All things considered
Usage: This means “taking everything into account”. Example: “All things considered, it seems reasonable to assume that…”
How many of these words and phrases will you get into your next essay? And are any of your favourite essay terms missing from our list? Let us know in the comments below, or get in touch here to find out more about courses that can help you with your essays.
At Oxford Royale Academy, we offer a number of summer school courses for young people who are keen to improve their essay writing skills. Click here to apply for one of our courses today, including law , business , medicine and engineering .
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How to Write a Standout Argumentative Essay
An argumentative essay is a piece of writing that uses factual evidence and logical support to convince the reader of a certain way of thinking. Although many types of essays aim at persuading the reader to believe a specific point of view, argumentative essays rely heavily on hard evidence, drawing on other studies and sources to prove their argument is best.
Don’t let the name fool you: Argumentative essays don’t have to be aggressive or combative. Rather, it gets its name from the style of arguing, whereby the writer presents sufficient research to both support their own claim and invalidate opposing perspectives. When you’re writing an argumentative essay, remember that the goal is to show that your thesis is the only logical conclusion.
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Argumentative essays are only as good as their argument, and structuring good arguments requires a little more than just being stubborn (even if it helps!). Below, we run through the most useful techniques for writing the perfect argumentative essay. But don’t take our word for it—our evidence speaks for itself!
What is an argumentative essay?
Like persuasive essays and other types of essays , the point of argumentative essays is to convince the reader of a particular point of view. What makes an essay argumentative is the method of convincing: An argumentative essay uses fact-based evidence and unquestionable logic to prove that its thesis is true.
Persuasive essays do this, too, but tend to be more emotional and less formal . Argumentative essays focus more on concrete empirical data, whereas persuasive essays appeal more to the reader’s emotions. In other words, argumentative essays favor quantitative support, while persuasive essays favor qualitative support.
Likewise, it’s easy to confuse argumentative essays with expository essays , which rely heavily on fact-based evidence and copious research. The main difference is bias : Argumentative essays presume one point of view is correct, whereas expository essays usually present all sides of the argument and leave it to the reader to make up their own mind.
Another distinction of argumentative essays is that the thesis is not obvious . It usually has strong enough opposition to necessitate an explanation of why it’s wrong. For example, “the sky is blue on a sunny day” would be an awful thesis for an argumentative essay. Not only would it be redundant, but also far too simplistic: Your evidence may be “look outside,” and that’d be the end of it!
The idea is that an argumentative essay leaves no doubt that its thesis is accurate, usually by disproving or invalidating opposing theories. That’s why argumentative essays don’t just talk about the writer’s own thesis but discuss other contradicting points of view as well. It’s hard to name one perspective as “true” if you’re ignoring all the others.
Basic argumentative essay structure
Because your entire argumentative essay depends on how well you present your case, your essay structure is crucial. To make matters worse, the structure of argumentative essays is a little more involved than those of other essay types because you also have to address other points of view. This alone leads to even more considerations, like whose argument to address first, and at what point to introduce key evidence.
Let’s start with the most basic argumentative essay structure: the simple five-paragraph format that suits most short essays.
- Your first paragraph is your introduction , which clearly presents your thesis, sets up the rest of the essay, and maybe even adds a little intrigue.
- Your second, third, and fourth paragraphs are your body, where you present your arguments and evidence, as well as refute opposing arguments. Each paragraph should focus on either showcasing one piece of supporting evidence or disproving one contradictory opinion.
- Your fifth and final paragraph is your conclusion , where you revisit your thesis in the context of all preceding evidence and succinctly wrap up everything.
This simple structure serves you well in a pinch, especially for timed essays that are part of a test. However, advanced essays require more detailed structures, especially if they have a length requirement of over five paragraphs.
Advanced argumentative essay structure
Some essays need to support more complicated arguments and more definitive rebuttals than normal. In these cases, the three major formats below should serve your argumentative essay for a variety of needs.
Aristotelian (Classic)
When to use it: making straightforward arguments
The Aristotelian or classic argument is a default structure for a clear argument, more like an extension of the simple five-paragraph structure above. It draws on credibility ( ethos ), emotion ( pathos ), and reasoning ( logos ) to prove its points, all of which can be adapted for virtually any argument. In form, it follows a direct and logical path:
1 Introduce the problem.
2 Explain your perspective.
3 Explain your opponent’s perspective. Refute their points one-by-one as you go.
4 Present your evidence.
5 Conclude your argument.
When to use it: presenting complex issues with no clear truths or when your thesis is a rebuttal or counterargument.
The Toulmin method was developed to analyze arguments themselves, so it makes sense to use it for essays. Because it’s steeped in logic and deep analysis, this approach best suits complicated issues that need unraveling, but also works well for refuting an opposing point of view piece by piece.
In form, it includes six main areas, but you’re free to organize them in whatever order works best for your essay. Keep in mind that your claim can itself be a rebuttal of another argument, so your entire essay could be disproving another thesis rather than presenting your own.
1 Claim: your thesis or argument, stated clearly
2 Reasons: your evidence, including data or generally accepted facts
3 Warrant: the connection between your claim and reasons (requiring you to state assumptions explicitly so there’s no confusion)
4 Backing: additional evidence to support your claim
5 Qualifier: the limits to your own claim, including concessions
6 Rebuttal: addressing opposing viewpoints and criticisms of your claim
When to use it: showing both sides of an argument as valid or when presenting to a mixed audience.
The Rogerian method is simply a middle-ground approach, where you acknowledge the validity of both your thesis and the opposition’s viewpoint. It’s the least confrontational and most respectful, which helps in convincing readers who are naturally biased against your main claim. In form, it follows a five-step structure:
2 Explain your opponent’s perspective first. Validate their points when correct.
3 Explain your perspective.
4 Bring both sides together. Present a middle ground where both viewpoints coexist.
5 Conclude your (balanced) argument.
How to write a good thesis
The thesis, or argument, is the cornerstone of any good essay. If your thesis is weak or full of holes, not even a perfect essay structure can save you.
The thesis itself should be the one takeaway you want your readers to leave with. What are you trying to convince them of, or what do you want them to remember after reading? Knowing this informs all other aspects of writing your essay, including the best structure and format, not to mention which evidence to collect.
For starters, choose a topic you feel strongly about (if it’s not already assigned). It helps if your argument is specific; having a broad or general argument means more facets to examine, which can make for a wordy essay.
It also helps to consider your audience. You don’t always have to tell readers what they want to hear, but their biases should influence how you write your essay, including your wording and how much credit to give the opposition.
Above all, choose a thesis with sufficient evidence. Argumentative essays thrive on factual proof from credible sources, and you don’t want to waste time searching for data that doesn’t exist. If you can’t find enough facts to back up your thesis, maybe you shouldn’t argue that point in the first place.
How to write an argumentative essay: the writing process
Argumentative essays follow the same recommended writing process as other kinds of writing, albeit with more emphasis on researching and preparing. Here’s a brief overview of how to adapt the process for argumentative essays:
1 Brainstorming: If your argument is not provided in the assignment, take some time to think up a good thesis based on our guidelines above.
2 Preparing: This phase is for collecting all the evidence going into your essay, as well as writing an outline . Because proof is key to argumentative essays, set aside ample time for research until you have all the support you need. It’s also a good time to outline your essay, answering questions like when and how to discuss opposing viewpoints.
3 Drafting: Write a rough draft of your essay. It helps to include any data and direct quotes as early as possible, especially with argumentative essays that often cite outside sources.
4 Revising: Polish your rough draft, optimize word choice, and restructure your arguments if necessary. Make sure your language is clear and appropriate for the reader, and double-check that you effectively made all your points and rebuttals.
5 Proofreading : Go through your draft and focus exclusively on fixing mistakes. If you’re not confident in your grammar skills or diction, use Grammarly .
Although optional, it always helps to have a fresh set of eyes on your essays before finalizing it. See if your argument is strong enough to convince your friends!
Argumentative essay writing tips
Our tips for writing better essays apply just as well to argumentative essays as any others, so that’s the best place to start if you’re looking for additional guidance. For tips specific to argumentative essays, try these:
Support your argument with concrete facts
Although similar to persuasive essays, argumentative essays are in some ways the exact opposite. While persuasive essays appeal to the reader’s emotions, argumentative essays appeal to the reader’s reason. That’s why hard facts work best.
Do plenty of research until you have enough data to support each of your main points. Feel free to cite other sources or studies to improve your credibility as well. Try to withhold your personal opinions and feelings as much as possible—let your evidence speak for you.
Be proactive about language
In an argumentative essay, tone and style are more important than you may think, especially if you’re criticizing another person’s perspective. Be respectful when choosing your words and phrasing. Using an aggressive tone reflects worse on the writer than the target, even if rebutting a despicable point of view.
Use aids for style and grammar
Even the smallest typo can derail the most carefully planned argument. The problem is, it’s hard to formulate the best possible argument if you’re distracted by spelling and grammar.
Grammarly finds all of your writing mistakes for you so you can stay focused on what’s important. It even checks your tone and clarity to make sure your true argument always shines through and comes across as intended. See how Grammarly can help your next writing project by downloading it now.
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- Concessions
- Counterarguments
- ESL Writing
The Argumentative Essay: The Language of Concession and Counterargument
Explanations and exercises about the use of counterarguments and concessions in argumentative essays.
The Argumentative Essay: The Language of Concession and Counterargument
We have already analyzed the structure of an argumentative essays (also known as a persuasive essay), and have read samples of this kind of essay. In this session we will review the purpose and structure of an argumentative essay, and will focus on practicing the grammar of sentences that present our argument while acknowledging that there is an opposing view point. In other words, we will focus on the grammar of concession and counterargument.
Purpose and structure of an argumentative essay
Take a few minutes to refresh your knowledge about the purpose and structure of argumentative / persuasive essays.
The Purpose of Persuasive Writing
The purpose of persuasion in writing is to convince, motivate, or move readers toward a certain point of view, or opinion. The act of trying to persuade automatically implies more than one opinion on the subject can be argued.
The idea of an argument often conjures up images of two people yelling and screaming in anger. In writing, however, an argument is very different. An argument is a reasoned opinion supported and explained by evidence. To argue in writing is to advance knowledge and ideas in a positive way. Written arguments often fail when they employ ranting rather than reasoning.
Most of us feel inclined to try to win the arguments we engage in. On some level, we all want to be right, and we want others to see the error of their ways. More times than not, however, arguments in which both sides try to win end up producing losers all around. The more productive approach is to persuade your audience to consider your opinion as a valid one, not simply the right one.
The Structure of a Persuasive Essay
The following five features make up the structure of a persuasive essay:
- Introduction and thesis
- Opposing and qualifying ideas
- Strong evidence in support of claim
- Style and tone of language
- A compelling conclusion
Creating an Introduction and a thesis
The persuasive essay begins with an engaging introduction that presents the general topic. The thesis typically appears somewhere in the introduction and states the writer’s point of view.
Avoid forming a thesis based on a negative claim. For example, “The hourly minimum wage is not high enough for the average worker to live on.” This is probably a true statement, but persuasive arguments should make a positive case. That is, the thesis statement should focus on how the hourly minimum wage is low or insufficient.
Acknowledging Opposing Ideas and Limits to Your Argument
Because an argument implies differing points of view on the subject, you must be sure to acknowledge those opposing ideas. Avoiding ideas that conflict with your own gives the reader the impression that you may be uncertain, fearful, or unaware of opposing ideas. Thus it is essential that you not only address counterarguments but also do so respectfully.
Try to address opposing arguments earlier rather than later in your essay. Rhetorically speaking, ordering your positive arguments last allows you to better address ideas that conflict with your own, so you can spend the rest of the essay countering those arguments. This way, you leave your reader thinking about your argument rather than someone else’s. You have the last word.
Acknowledging points of view different from your own also has the effect of fostering more credibility between you and the audience. They know from the outset that you are aware of opposing ideas and that you are not afraid to give them space.
It is also helpful to establish the limits of your argument and what you are trying to accomplish. In effect, you are conceding early on that your argument is not the ultimate authority on a given topic. Such humility can go a long way toward earning credibility and trust with an audience. Audience members will know from the beginning that you are a reasonable writer, and audience members will trust your argument as a result. For example, in the following concessionary statement, the writer advocates for stricter gun control laws, but she admits it will not solve all of our problems with crime:
Although tougher gun control laws are a powerful first step in decreasing violence in our streets, such legislation alone cannot end these problems since guns are not the only problem we face.
Such a concession will be welcome by those who might disagree with this writer’s argument in the first place. To effectively persuade their readers, writers need to be modest in their goals and humble in their approach to get readers to listen to the ideas.
Text above adapted from: Writing for Success – Open Textbook (umn.edu) Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.
Argument, Concession/Acknowledgment and Refutation
We have already seen that as a writer of an argumentative essay, you do not just want to present your arguments for or against a certain issue. You need to convince or persuade your readers that your opinion is the valid one. You convince readers by presenting your points of view, by presenting points of view that oppose yours, and by showing why the points of view different from yours are not as valid as yours. These three elements of an argumentative essay are known as argument (your point of view), concession/acknowledgement/counterargument (admission that there is an opposing point of view to yours) and refutation (showing why the counterargument is not valid). Acknowledging points of view different from yours and refuting them makes your own argument stronger. It shows that you have thought about all the sides of the issue instead of thinking only about your own views.
Identifying argument, counterargument, concession and refutation
We will now look at sentences from paragraphs which are part of an argumentative essay and identify these parts. Read the four sentences in each group and decide if each sentence is the argument, the counterargument, the acknowledgement / concession or the refutation. Circle your choice.
Schools need to replace paper books with e-books.
argument counterargument acknowledgement refutation
Others believe students will get bad eyesight if they read computer screens instead of paper books.
There is some truth to this statement.
However, e-books are much cheaper than paper books.
The best way to learn a foreign language is to visit a foreign country.
Some think watching movies in the foreign language is the best way to learn a language.
Even though people will learn some of the foreign language this way,
it cannot be better than actually living in the country and speaking with the people every day.
Exercise above adapted from: More Practice Recognizing Counterarguments, Acknowledgements, and Refutations. Clyde Hindman. Canvas Commons. Public domain.
More Practice Recognizing Counterarguments, Acknowledgements, and Refutations | Canvas Commons (instructure.com)
Sentence structure: Argument and Concession
Read the following sentences about the issue of cell phone use in college classrooms. Notice the connectors used between the independent and the dependent clauses.
Although cell phones are convenient, they isolate people.
dependent clause independent clause
Cell phones isolate people, even though they are convenient.
independent clause dependent clause
In the sentences above, the argument is “cell phones isolate people”. The counterargument is “cell phones are convenient” and the acknowledgment/concession is expressed by the use of although / even though to make the concession of the opposing argument.
In addition, and most importantly, notice the following:
Which clause contains the writer’s argument? Which clause contains the concession?
The writer’s position is contained in the independent clause and the concession is contained in the dependent clause. This helps the writer to highlight their argument by putting it in the clause that stands on its own and leaving the dependent clause for the concession.
Notice that it doesn’t matter if the independent clause is at the beginning or at the end of the sentence. In both cases, the argument is “cell phones isolate people.”
Notice the difference between these two sentences:
Cell phones are convenient, even though they isolate people.
independent clause dependent clause
Cell phones isolate people, even though they are convenient.
independent clause dependent clause
This pair of sentences shows how the structure of the sentence reflects the point of view of the writer. The argument in the first sentence is that cell phones are convenient. The writer feels this is the important aspect, and thus places it in the independent clause. In the dependent clause, the writer concedes that cell phones isolate people. In contrast, in the second sentence the argument is that cell phones isolate people. The writer feels this is the important aspect and therefore puts this idea in the independent clause. The writer of this sentence concedes that cell phones are convenient, and this concession appears in the dependent clause.
Read the following pairs of sentences and say which sentence in the pair has a positive attitude towards technology in our lives.
A
- Although technology has brought unexpected problems to society, it has become an instrument of progress.
- Technology has brought unexpected problems to society, even though it has become an instrument of progress.
B
- Technology is an instrument of social change, even though there are affordability issues.
- There are affordability issues with technology, even though it is it is an instrument of social change.
Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike
Maria Antonini de Pino – Evergreen Valley College, San Jose, California, USA
LIST OF SOURCES (in order of appearance)
- Text adapted from: Writing for Success – Open Textbook (umn.edu)
Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International
- Exercise adapted from: More Practice Recognizing Counterarguments, Acknowledgements, and Refutations. Clyde Hindman. Canvas Commons. Public domain.
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8 Effective Strategies to Write Argumentative Essays
In a bustling university town, there lived a student named Alex. Popular for creativity and wit, one challenge seemed insurmountable for Alex– the dreaded argumentative essay!
One gloomy afternoon, as the rain tapped against the window pane, Alex sat at his cluttered desk, staring at a blank document on the computer screen. The assignment loomed large: a 350-600-word argumentative essay on a topic of their choice . With a sigh, he decided to seek help of mentor, Professor Mitchell, who was known for his passion for writing.
Entering Professor Mitchell’s office was like stepping into a treasure of knowledge. Bookshelves lined every wall, faint aroma of old manuscripts in the air and sticky notes over the wall. Alex took a deep breath and knocked on his door.
“Ah, Alex,” Professor Mitchell greeted with a warm smile. “What brings you here today?”
Alex confessed his struggles with the argumentative essay. After hearing his concerns, Professor Mitchell said, “Ah, the argumentative essay! Don’t worry, Let’s take a look at it together.” As he guided Alex to the corner shelf, Alex asked,
Table of Contents
“What is an Argumentative Essay?”
The professor replied, “An argumentative essay is a type of academic writing that presents a clear argument or a firm position on a contentious issue. Unlike other forms of essays, such as descriptive or narrative essays, these essays require you to take a stance, present evidence, and convince your audience of the validity of your viewpoint with supporting evidence. A well-crafted argumentative essay relies on concrete facts and supporting evidence rather than merely expressing the author’s personal opinions . Furthermore, these essays demand comprehensive research on the chosen topic and typically follows a structured format consisting of three primary sections: an introductory paragraph, three body paragraphs, and a concluding paragraph.”
He continued, “Argumentative essays are written in a wide range of subject areas, reflecting their applicability across disciplines. They are written in different subject areas like literature and philosophy, history, science and technology, political science, psychology, economics and so on.
Alex asked,
“When is an Argumentative Essay Written?”
The professor answered, “Argumentative essays are often assigned in academic settings, but they can also be written for various other purposes, such as editorials, opinion pieces, or blog posts. Some situations to write argumentative essays include:
1. Academic assignments
In school or college, teachers may assign argumentative essays as part of coursework. It help students to develop critical thinking and persuasive writing skills .
2. Debates and discussions
Argumentative essays can serve as the basis for debates or discussions in academic or competitive settings. Moreover, they provide a structured way to present and defend your viewpoint.
3. Opinion pieces
Newspapers, magazines, and online publications often feature opinion pieces that present an argument on a current issue or topic to influence public opinion.
4. Policy proposals
In government and policy-related fields, argumentative essays are used to propose and defend specific policy changes or solutions to societal problems.
5. Persuasive speeches
Before delivering a persuasive speech, it’s common to prepare an argumentative essay as a foundation for your presentation.
Regardless of the context, an argumentative essay should present a clear thesis statement , provide evidence and reasoning to support your position, address counterarguments, and conclude with a compelling summary of your main points. The goal is to persuade readers or listeners to accept your viewpoint or at least consider it seriously.”
Handing over a book, the professor continued, “Take a look on the elements or structure of an argumentative essay.”
Elements of an Argumentative Essay
An argumentative essay comprises five essential components:
Claim in argumentative writing is the central argument or viewpoint that the writer aims to establish and defend throughout the essay. A claim must assert your position on an issue and must be arguable. It can guide the entire argument.
2. Evidence
Evidence must consist of factual information, data, examples, or expert opinions that support the claim. Also, it lends credibility by strengthening the writer’s position.
3. Counterarguments
Presenting a counterclaim demonstrates fairness and awareness of alternative perspectives.
4. Rebuttal
After presenting the counterclaim, the writer refutes it by offering counterarguments or providing evidence that weakens the opposing viewpoint. It shows that the writer has considered multiple perspectives and is prepared to defend their position.
The format of an argumentative essay typically follows the structure to ensure clarity and effectiveness in presenting an argument.
How to Write An Argumentative Essay
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write an argumentative essay:
1. Introduction
- Begin with a compelling sentence or question to grab the reader’s attention.
- Provide context for the issue, including relevant facts, statistics, or historical background.
- Provide a concise thesis statement to present your position on the topic.
2. Body Paragraphs (usually three or more)
- Start each paragraph with a clear and focused topic sentence that relates to your thesis statement.
- Furthermore, provide evidence and explain the facts, statistics, examples, expert opinions, and quotations from credible sources that supports your thesis.
- Use transition sentences to smoothly move from one point to the next.
3. Counterargument and Rebuttal
- Acknowledge opposing viewpoints or potential objections to your argument.
- Also, address these counterarguments with evidence and explain why they do not weaken your position.
4. Conclusion
- Restate your thesis statement and summarize the key points you’ve made in the body of the essay.
- Leave the reader with a final thought, call to action, or broader implication related to the topic.
5. Citations and References
- Properly cite all the sources you use in your essay using a consistent citation style.
- Also, include a bibliography or works cited at the end of your essay.
6. Formatting and Style
- Follow any specific formatting guidelines provided by your instructor or institution.
- Use a professional and academic tone in your writing and edit your essay to avoid content, spelling and grammar mistakes .
Remember that the specific requirements for formatting an argumentative essay may vary depending on your instructor’s guidelines or the citation style you’re using (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago). Always check the assignment instructions or style guide for any additional requirements or variations in formatting.
Did you understand what Prof. Mitchell explained Alex? Check it now!
Fill the Details to Check Your Score
Prof. Mitchell continued, “An argumentative essay can adopt various approaches when dealing with opposing perspectives. It may offer a balanced presentation of both sides, providing equal weight to each, or it may advocate more strongly for one side while still acknowledging the existence of opposing views.” As Alex listened carefully to the Professor’s thoughts, his eyes fell on a page with examples of argumentative essay.
Example of an Argumentative Essay
Alex picked the book and read the example. It helped him to understand the concept. Furthermore, he could now connect better to the elements and steps of the essay which Prof. Mitchell had mentioned earlier. Aren’t you keen to know how an argumentative essay should be like? Here is an example of a well-crafted argumentative essay , which was read by Alex. After Alex finished reading the example, the professor turned the page and continued, “Check this page to know the importance of writing an argumentative essay in developing skills of an individual.”
Importance of an Argumentative Essay
After understanding the benefits, Alex was convinced by the ability of the argumentative essays in advocating one’s beliefs and favor the author’s position. Alex asked,
“How are argumentative essays different from the other types?”
Prof. Mitchell answered, “Argumentative essays differ from other types of essays primarily in their purpose, structure, and approach in presenting information. Unlike expository essays, argumentative essays persuade the reader to adopt a particular point of view or take a specific action on a controversial issue. Furthermore, they differ from descriptive essays by not focusing vividly on describing a topic. Also, they are less engaging through storytelling as compared to the narrative essays.
Alex said, “Given the direct and persuasive nature of argumentative essays, can you suggest some strategies to write an effective argumentative essay?
Turning the pages of the book, Prof. Mitchell replied, “Sure! You can check this infographic to get some tips for writing an argumentative essay.”
Effective Strategies to Write an Argumentative Essay
As days turned into weeks, Alex diligently worked on his essay. He researched, gathered evidence, and refined his thesis. It was a long and challenging journey, filled with countless drafts and revisions.
Finally, the day arrived when Alex submitted their essay. As he clicked the “Submit” button, a sense of accomplishment washed over him. He realized that the argumentative essay, while challenging, had improved his critical thinking and transformed him into a more confident writer. Furthermore, Alex received feedback from his professor, a mix of praise and constructive criticism. It was a humbling experience, a reminder that every journey has its obstacles and opportunities for growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
An argumentative essay can be written as follows- 1. Choose a Topic 2. Research and Collect Evidences 3. Develop a Clear Thesis Statement 4. Outline Your Essay- Introduction, Body Paragraphs and Conclusion 5. Revise and Edit 6. Format and Cite Sources 7. Final Review
One must choose a clear, concise and specific statement as a claim. It must be debatable and establish your position. Avoid using ambiguous or unclear while making a claim. To strengthen your claim, address potential counterarguments or opposing viewpoints. Additionally, use persuasive language and rhetoric to make your claim more compelling
Starting an argument essay effectively is crucial to engage your readers and establish the context for your argument. Here’s how you can start an argument essay are: 1. Begin With an Engaging Hook 2. Provide Background Information 3. Present Your Thesis Statement 4. Briefly Outline Your Main 5. Establish Your Credibility
The key features of an argumentative essay are: 1. Clear and Specific Thesis Statement 2. Credible Evidence 3. Counterarguments 4. Structured Body Paragraph 5. Logical Flow 6. Use of Persuasive Techniques 7. Formal Language
An argumentative essay typically consists of the following main parts or sections: 1. Introduction 2. Body Paragraphs 3. Counterargument and Rebuttal 4. Conclusion 5. References (if applicable)
The main purpose of an argumentative essay is to persuade the reader to accept or agree with a particular viewpoint or position on a controversial or debatable topic. In other words, the primary goal of an argumentative essay is to convince the audience that the author's argument or thesis statement is valid, logical, and well-supported by evidence and reasoning.
Great article! The topic is simplified well! Keep up the good work
Excellent article! provides comprehensive and practical guidance for crafting compelling arguments. The emphasis on thorough research and clear thesis statements is particularly valuable. To further enhance your strategies, consider recommending the use of a counterargument paragraph. Addressing and refuting opposing viewpoints can strengthen your position and show a well-rounded understanding of the topic. Additionally, engaging with a community like ATReads, a writers’ social media, can provide valuable feedback and support from fellow writers. Thanks for sharing these insightful tips!
wow incredible ! keep up the good work
I love it thanks for the guidelines
I love it thank for the topic
Very useful
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How To Write Argumentative Essays
- Essay Writing Lower Secondary
In an argumentative essay, you take a clear stand on a topic and defend it throughout your essay. As your school teachers would have reminded you umpteenth times, you must support this stand with well-reasoned arguments.
Each argument must be backed by sound evidence and is best structured using the PEEL template—Point, Elaboration, Evidence, Link—for clarity and a strong persuasive impact.
But that is not all! A mature response also examines opposing viewpoints. By addressing and rebutting these counter-arguments, you demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the subject and reinforce your own position. You should structure your essay in a manner that will best strengthen your stand.
In this article, we delve into:
- What makes argumentative writing challenging
- How to identify an argumentative topic
- Argumentative and discursive—the difference
- Argumentative essay formats or structures
- The brainstorming process
- Crafting compelling introductions
- Writing effective body paragraphs and rebuttals
- Concluding your essay with impact
- Preparing for argumentative essay topics
This article provides you with practical strategies to enhance your argumentative essay writing skills. So, continue reading as we explore these critical elements!
But before you go on reading… You might want to download a pdf copy of this article as it is quite long!
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1. What Makes Argumentative Writing Challenging?
The key challenge lies in striking the right balance between being persuasive and remaining objective. Even as you try to convince your readers, it’s crucial to keep an objective tone. You must think critically, convince readers without bias, and argue persuasively.
Let’s not sugarcoat it—argumentative writing isn’t for weaker writers.
Here’s what to consider before tackling an argumentative essay in an exam:
- Do you understand every aspect of the question?
- Can you develop two to three strong, evidence-supported arguments?
- Are you familiar with the opposing viewpoints?
- Do you have a well-thought-out rebuttal to these opposing viewpoints?
- And finally, are you able to plan and execute all this in under 55 minutes?
If you’ve checked off these points and feel confident, you’re ready to dive into argumentative writing with both feet. Let’s get you prepped!
2. How do I Identify an Argumentative Topic?
The first step is recognising when you’re dealing with an argumentative topic. Let’s examine some examples from past papers to clarify this crucial step:
- “Schools should teach practical skills such as cooking and managing our finances.” Do you agree? Why or why not? (2023, O-Level)
- “All you need to succeed in life is a positive attitude.” How far would you agree? (2023, O-Level)
- “Young people spend so much time thinking about the future that they forget to enjoy the present.” How far do you agree? (2022, O-Level)
- “People today are far too easily persuaded to spend money on things they don’t need.” Do you agree that advertising has made us wasteful? (2022, O-Level)
- “A happy person is a healthy person.” How far would you agree? (2021, O-Level)
Evidently, the phrase “Do you agree?” is a clear marker of an argumentative prompt. However, not all argumentative questions will have this signpost. For instance:
- Do electronic devices, such as tablets or smart phones, help or hinder students in their studies? (2015, O-Level)
- Parents often believe that it is better to be safe than sorry. Do you consider young people to be too protected? (2013, O-Level)
3. Argumentative and Discursive—What’s the Difference?
In our previous blog article ” How to Write a Discursive Essay for O-Levels “, we established that the term “Expository” is an umbrella term—discursive writing and argumentative writing both fall under the genre of expository writing.
In other words, argumentative writing and discursive writing are different kinds of expository essays with different characteristics.
Argumentative : you are required to pick a stand. Your purpose is to persuade and convince the reader to agree with your stand. Do not sit on the fence!
Discursive : you are not required to pick a position, as most discursive essay topics ask “What is your opinion?” or “What are your views?”. Nevertheless, you’re still required to present a balanced discussion by addressing the issue from different perspectives.
4. What is the Best Format for an Argumentative Essay?
There is no hard and fast rule when it comes to writing, but adopting a structured approach can be very useful especially when you’re grappling with time constraints. Here is a useful template you can adopt. You won’t go wrong using the following format or structure:
5. How do I Brainstorm Content for an Argumentative Essay?
Need a brainstorming framework? Try thinking in these terms:
Multi-Domain :
Examine your topic through various lenses to capture a wide spectrum of ideas. Consider how it impacts domains such as social, technological, educational, environmental, ethical, and political.
Multi-Scale :
Consider multiple scales—think of individual, national and international levels. And don’t just stop there! You can also consider how an issue might be relevant to the individual in physical, mental, and emotional aspects.
Now that the brainstorming is done, let’s start working on the writing.
6. Writing the Introduction for an Argumentative Essay
An effective introduction begins with a hook, and there are several different ways you can hook your reader. You can start with a thought-provoking question, a famous quote, an interesting fact, or simply a general observation regarding the issue. It could be an observation about societal attitudes regarding the issue!
Then from the general, funnel down to the specific: address both sides of the essay question at hand. And don’t forget to include your thesis statement in the last line of your introduction!
You can ask yourself these questions to help craft your intro:
- Are there any keywords I need to define?
- Has this issue been a hot topic recently?
- Why am I picking this stand?
- Why do detractors of my stand believe otherwise?
- Do I agree with the statement entirely?
- If not, to what extent (limited, certain, large) do I agree with it?
Now, you’re on your way to writing a solid introduction. Here’s a sample introduction to the essay we’ve brainstormed earlier:
7. Writing the Body Paragraphs for an Argumentative Essay
Refer to the suggested essay format (point 4) and you’ll see that the argumentative essay should contain three body paragraphs. Let’s focus on the two kinds of paragraphs you’ll need in an argumentative essay:
- Supporting reason paragraph
- Counter-argument (opposing viewpoint) + Rebuttal paragraph
A supporting reason paragraph can use the same PEEL structure you find in discursive writing. Start by introducing the POINT in your topic sentence (the first sentence of your body paragraph), ELABORATE on the point, then support with EVIDENCE or EXAMPLES , and lastly, LINK back to your topic sentence. You can refer to the explanation in detail here .
So in this article, we’ll address what is perhaps the more challenging paragraph type: the counter-argument + rebuttal paragraph.
Do you struggle with crafting this? If so, don’t fret; you’re not alone. Let us break it down for you.
Firstly, what is a counter-argument?
A counter-argument, to put it simply, is an opposing viewpoint, a point that does not support your stand. It is made by your opponents, people who disagree with your stand. Many students introduce their counter-argument with the phrase “Critics may argue that…” and this phrase has become somewhat of a cliché.
Some teachers may also deem the term “critics” as too generic and vague. So, if you can, name a specific stakeholder that might hold this opposing viewpoint. For instance, you can use “teachers”, “parents”, et cetera to replace the word “critics”.
And what is a rebuttal?
A rebuttal is a point which refutes, challenges, or weakens the counter-argument. It serves to prove that the counter-argument is, in some instances, flawed. You can ask yourself the following question: “under what circumstance is the counter-argument not true?”
Bear in mind! When writing a rebuttal:
- Don’t introduce a new, distinct point
- Don’t rebut with fallacious claims that cannot be backed up
- Don’t rebut points that are clearly valid and logical
In instances where your opponents’ point is valid, do not attempt to refute—this makes you appear illogical! Instead, you can concede that your opponent makes a valid point; then your rebuttal involves attempting to weaken this point in some manner.
Here is an example to illustrate what we mean by this. Let’s assume that our stand is “I can only agree to a limited extent that a happy person is a healthy person.”
To improve the persuasiveness of your rebuttal, you should provide more elaboration for your rebuttal than for the counter-argument and use examples or evidence to strengthen your rebuttal.
A coherent counter-argument + rebuttal paragraph could be structured as such:
- Present counter-argument
- Elaborate : why detractors say this
- Point for my rebuttal
- Elaborate : why I say this
- Evidence to bolster my Point
- Link : reinforce my rebuttal
Argumentative Essay Example:
8. writing the conclusion for an argumentative essay.
Summarising your arguments is not the only way to wrap up your essay! Be creative and experiment with different ways to end with a bang.
For instance, you can demonstrate maturity of thought by providing insight to this issue. Another approach is to come full circle by referencing your introduction. However, it’s crucial to avoid introducing brand new points or simply repeating your opening statements.
Instead, consider revisiting the key themes or ideas introduced in the beginning and showing how they have evolved or been reinforced throughout your essay. Remember our opening question? Consider referencing that in your conclusion:
9. What Argumentative Essay Topics Should I be Prepared for?
While we can’t magically predict the exact questions you’ll face in your exams, we’ve lined up a list of essay topic examples related to commonly-tested themes.
Go ahead and pick any of these essay examples to practice. Ask yourself how you feel about these argumentative essay topics; brainstorm arguments for and against the statements. It doesn’t matter if you’re for or against them; what really counts is how solidly you back up your opinion!
Essay Topics – Youth and Education
- Youth today are less resilient than previous generations. Do you agree?
- Do you think parents should be allowed to monitor their children’s online activities?
- Young people today do not truly care about the environment. How far do you agree?
- Schools should focus more on teaching practical life skills than academic subjects. Do you agree?
- Online learning can be just as effective as learning in a traditional classroom. Do you agree?
- To what extent do you agree that schools adequately prepare students for adulthood?
- Creativity cannot be taught. To what extent do you think this is true?
- The emphasis on academic excellence undermines the quality of education. Do you agree?
Essay Topics – Media and Technology:
- Social media is a waste of time. Do you agree?
- Modern technology is leading to social isolation. Do you think this is true?
- Technology has made us lazy. To what extent do you agree?
- The most powerful element in advertising is truth. How far do you agree?
- To what extent do you agree that teenagers are more influenced by the media than by their parents?
- The portrayal of addiction in media often does more harm than good. Do you agree?
Essay Topics – Economics and Success:
- Everyone can be successful if they work hard enough. Do you agree?
- Competition brings out the worst in people. Do you agree?
- Is a university degree essential for success in today’s job market?
- Is determination more crucial than talent when it comes to being successful?
- Creativity is a necessary ingredient of success. How far do you agree?
Essay Topics – Philosophical Issues:
- Free speech is always a good thing. How far do you agree?
- Do you think money will always bring happiness?
- All fear is useless. Do you agree?
- Do you think that all criminals deserve a second chance?
- Ignorance is a dangerous thing. To what extent do you agree?
- People who overcome adversity can only change for the better. Do you agree?
Tackling an argumentative essay topic is no mean feat, and the argumentative writing skills you develop now will serve you well beyond the classroom. The ability to see both sides of an issue not only makes you a better essayist but also a more empathetic and informed person.
We hope this article has provided you with some insight and clarity! Continue to practise, stay curious, and always be ready to explore new perspectives. Good luck!
You might want to download a pdf copy of this article for future reference!
See more related articles and information on Writing Samurai:
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- Benefits of Secondary English Tuition
- Model Compositions for Primary School Students
- Free Picture Compositions for Writing
- A Guide On How to Write Discursive Essays
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Examples of Argumentative Language Below are examples of signposts that are used in argumentative essays. Signposts enable the reader to follow our arguments easily. When pointing out opposing arguments (Cons): Opponents of this idea claim/maintain that…
May 28, 2014 · In a well-organized essay, take a position on the relationship between certainty and doubt. Support your argument with appropriate evidence and examples. 2011-A The following passage is from Rights of Man, a book written by the pamphleteer Thomas Paine in 1791. Born in England, Paine was an intellectual, a revolutionary, and a supporter of American
Usage: This is a useful word to use when summarising which argument you find most convincing. Example: “Scholar A’s point – that Constanze Mozart was motivated by financial gain – seems to me to be the most persuasive argument for her actions following Mozart’s death.” 39. Compelling. Usage: Use in the same way as “persuasive ...
Language Resources for Argument Writing Aims of this module: • To identify language resources for writing an academic argument • To demonstrate how evaluative vocabulary, modality, endorsement, attribution, comparison and concession can be effective resources for building an argument in an essay
Jun 2, 2022 · An argumentative essay is a piece of writing that uses factual evidence and logical support to convince the reader of a certain way of thinking. Although many types of essays aim at persuading the reader to believe a specific point of view, argumentative essays rely heavily on hard evidence, drawing on other studies and sources to prove their argument is best.
Purpose and structure of an argumentative essay. Take a few minutes to refresh your knowledge about the purpose and structure of argumentative / persuasive essays. The Purpose of Persuasive Writing. The purpose of persuasion in writing is to convince, motivate, or move readers toward a certain point of view, or opinion.
Jul 24, 2020 · Approaches to argumentative essays. An argumentative essay should be objective in its approach; your arguments should rely on logic and evidence, not on exaggeration or appeals to emotion. There are many possible approaches to argumentative essays, but there are two common models that can help you start outlining your arguments: The Toulmin ...
Mar 7, 2024 · In school or college, teachers may assign argumentative essays as part of coursework. It help students to develop critical thinking and persuasive writing skills. 2. Debates and discussions. Argumentative essays can serve as the basis for debates or discussions in academic or competitive settings.
This document outlines the key structural features of an argumentative text, including: 1) Taking a clear position on an issue in the introduction. 2) Providing logical arguments supported by evidence to justify the position. 3) Using modals, conjunctions, evaluative language, rhetorical questions, and passive voice to strengthen the argument and engage the reader.
Jul 5, 2024 · 7. Writing the Body Paragraphs for an Argumentative Essay. Refer to the suggested essay format (point 4) and you’ll see that the argumentative essay should contain three body paragraphs. Let’s focus on the two kinds of paragraphs you’ll need in an argumentative essay: Supporting reason paragraph