Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which of the following best describes the primary goal of an argumentative essay?
Which of the following best describes the primary goal of an argumentative essay?
- To entertain the reader with a compelling narrative related to a controversial topic.
- To explore multiple sides of an issue without taking a firm stance.
- To convince the reader to agree with the writer's viewpoint on a debatable issue. (correct)
- To inform the reader about a topic using factual information and data.
In an argumentative essay, where is the claim or thesis statement most commonly presented?
In an argumentative essay, where is the claim or thesis statement most commonly presented?
- At the start of the first body paragraph.
- At the beginning of the introduction paragraph.
- At the end of the introduction paragraph. (correct)
- At the end of the concluding paragraph.
What is the purpose of including a counterclaim and rebuttal in the body of an argumentative essay?
What is the purpose of including a counterclaim and rebuttal in the body of an argumentative essay?
- To provide background information on the history of the debate.
- To introduce a new topic for further discussion.
- To confuse the reader and weaken the primary argument.
- To acknowledge opposing viewpoints and strengthen the primary argument. (correct)
In the example of the marine mammal captivity essay, which of the following is presented as a reason to support the claim that marine mammals should not be held in captivity?
In the example of the marine mammal captivity essay, which of the following is presented as a reason to support the claim that marine mammals should not be held in captivity?
Which of the following reflects the most effective strategy for writing a conclusion to an argumentative essay?
Which of the following reflects the most effective strategy for writing a conclusion to an argumentative essay?
Flashcards
Argumentative Essay
Argumentative Essay
An essay meant to convince readers of a particular viewpoint.
Claim
Claim
The main argument or position taken in an argumentative essay.
Supporting Evidence
Supporting Evidence
Data or facts used to back up the claim in an essay.
Counterclaim
Counterclaim
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Rebuttal
Rebuttal
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Study Notes
Argumentative Essays
- An argumentative essay aims to convince the reader to agree with the writer's opinion on a controversial or debatable issue.
- The first step is to formulate your claim or argument, choosing a side on the issue (agree or disagree).
- The next step is to gather evidence to support your claim. This could involve personal experiences, expert opinions, or reliable sources like books and articles.
Components of an Argumentative Essay
- The introduction usually includes a brief background of the issue and states the claim or thesis statement. It is common to present the claim at the end of the introduction paragraph.
- The body of the essay presents evidence to support the claim, typically one reason with supporting details per paragraph.
- Supporting details can be examples, statistics, personal experiences, or quotations.
- The body should also include a counterclaim (opposing argument) and a rebuttal defending the original claim against the counterclaim.
- The conclusion summarizes the main argument, reinforces the claim, and may include a call to action.
Example: Marine Mammal Captivity
- The example essay argues that marine mammals should not be kept in captivity.
- The introduction states the claim: "There is no doubt that marine mammals should not be held in captivity. They are a part of nature and should not be bought, sold, or thrown in an aquarium. Marine mammals have the right to be kept in their natural environment."
- The body provides three reasons to support this claim:
- Captivity causes health problems in marine mammals.
- Marine mammals face abusive treatment in captivity.
- Marine mammals have a poor breeding rate in captivity.
- The counterclaim suggests that holding animals in captivity aids in research.
- The rebuttal states that scientists prefer to study animals in their natural environment for firsthand knowledge.
- The conclusion reiterates the claim, includes a quote from Gandhi about animal welfare, and calls for action to free marine mammals from captivity.
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Description
Explore the art of persuasive writing with argumentative essays. Learn to formulate claims, gather evidence, and structure your essay effectively. Discover the key components, from introductions to rebuttals, and master the art of convincing your audience.
