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GOVT 2305 & 2306 - Davis: Writing an Argumentative Essay

What is an argumentative essay?

What is an Argumentative Essay?

  • The purpose of the essay is to make a thorough, credible argument about your topic.
  • The subject of the paper must be based on a topic or issue that is arguable
    • There will be more than one argument that a reasonable person could conceivably make about your topic.
    • The topic will not already have a generally accepted conclusion (i.e., slavery is wrong)
  • Your arguments must be based on evidence, not emotion.  This will require research on your part.

Why would you want to write this type of essay?

  • To convince your reader that you have a valid argument -- not necessarily to accept your argument, but to establish your viewpoint as worthy of consideration.
  • To educate your reader about the merits of your argument.

Writing your essay

Parts of an argumentative essay

1.  Introductory paragraph:

  • Introduce your topic.
  • Give your reader a brief overview of the topic.
  • Why is your topic important?
  • Include your thesis statement.

2.  Body:

  • Each body paragraph will include an idea (or point) about your argument.
  • Include evidence for each point you include.
  • You should acknowledge other viewpoints about your topic somewhere in the body of your paper.

3.  Conclusion:

  • Address how the points that you've made in the body of your paper affect or relate to your thesis statement.
  • You may want to mention what you see as the future of your topic (i.e., In the future, the American public is likely to re-evaluate how elections are conducted)

 

Evidence in an argumentative essay

All of the points you use to support your argument should be backed up with evidence.

Examples of types of evidence you can use:

  • Facts
  • Statistics
  • Examples from history
  • Examples from similar scenarios
  • Quotes or ideas from experts on your topic (such as you might find in journal articles or books)
  • Case studies

You may find other types of evidence to use as well; the above are just examples.  

More resources

Lee College Writing Center

Writing Center tutors can help you with any writing assignment for any class from the time you receive the assignment instructions until you turn it in, including:

  • Brainstorming ideas
  • MLA / APA formats
  • Grammar and paragraph unity
  • Thesis statements
  • Second set of eyes before turning in

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