3. Structure of the Argumentatitive Essay
There are four basic sections of any argumentative essay you should follow:
- Introduction paragraph
- Body with 2-3 strong arguments
- Refusing opposing arguments in one paragraph
- Conclusion
Of course, you must focus on supporting your thesis statement rather than the opponents. The opposing point of view is included just to show the writer is objective with his judgments, and he respects all existing arguments.
Outline Section 1: Introduction
Every essay starts with an introduction, and an argumentative essay is not an exception.
- Hook
First of all, think about a powerful, eye-catching hook to grab your reader's attention. Sure, it is important to know who your target audience is first. Different people require different approaches.
Let's look at my own example. I used to write an argumentative essay on why there should be a second official language in the United States in addition to English. I have chosen Spanish as my point of view. Based on the primary research, my hook could be,
"As far as most of the immigrants in the United States speak Spanish due to the neighborhood with Latin America, Spanish should be made the second official language in the United States."
- Background information
Don't try to write too much in this part. Simply name a topic and give a hint on what you'll be talking about in your argumentative text. Briefly explain why the topic is important and who cares about it.
An example might be,
"The research shows that immigrants from Latin America feel uncomfortable with studying in English schools as they require more time to learn this language. Thus, it is important to work on the question of the second national language."
- Working on the thesis statement
This part contains the main argument. Don't pose any questions here - just state your main point of view clearly and without any hesitations.
You may look at the additional information on how to write an eye-catching essay introduction with a hook.
Outline Section 2: Working on Your Arguments
As you remember, every claim is supported by the corresponding evidence you found during the research. If you have more information to share, you may include up to five body paragraphs.
- Claim
It is a statement to support your argumentative essay's thesis. An example of an opening sentence in body paragraph is:
"Making Spanish the second official language in the IS would positively impact the economic relationships between Mexico and the United States."
Without a good evidence, no one is going to believe my words.
- Evidence is based on credible facts and statistics the writer finds during the research process.
It has nothing to do with your personal knowledge or information based on your experience. Choose sources carefully. The example is:
"12% increase in trade between the US and Mexico was a notice in 2014 when Arizona's local government send people who spoke Spanish to take part in the deal."
Also, the reader will think your judgments are subjective until you add an opposing argument.
Outline Section 3: Looking for Opponent's Claims
You need to understand that different people have different points of view regarding the same topic, so be patient. Check the arguments of the US citizens who do not support the idea of the second national language. They may be helpful while working on the third section of your argumentative essay.
You may pose a question why they don't like the idea of any other language except for English. Make it clear that they fear are connected with the unwillingness to study one more language or cooperate with Mexican population. Remember that your personal ideas should be supported by the facts you find during your research. For every argument against, you should present enough evidence to prove you're right.
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Outline Section 4: Conclusion
- Rewrite thesis statement
While arguing with various opinions, you have lost the focus. Remind the readers of your topic by restating your thesis. Make it clear why your argument is a winning one. The best way to do so is to present how the things would turn without your idea being implemented ASAP.
- Write down about the importance of researched topic again. To make your statement persuasive enough, use loud arguments like,
"Without meeting the needs of the Latin American population, the local government risks facing another Col War like it was with USSR."