A Guide to writing an Argumentative Essay
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What is an argumentative essay?
An argumentative essay is a type of essay in which the writer takes a position on a topic and then supports that position with evidence and reasoning. The goal of an argumentative essay is to persuade the reader to agree with the writer's point of view.
How to write an argumentative essay
Here is a step-by-step guide to writing an argumentative essay:
1. Choose a topic of your argumentative essay
Choose a topic that you are interested in and that you have some knowledge about. It is also important to choose a topic that is arguable, meaning that there are two or more sides to the issue.
2. Develop a thesis statement of your argumentative essay
A thesis statement is a clear and concise statement of your main argument. It should be specific and arguable, and it should state your position on the topic.
3. Do your research on your essay
Once you have a thesis statement, you need to do some research to gather evidence to support your argument. This evidence can come from a variety of sources, such as books, articles, websites, and interviews.
4. Organize your essay.
Once you have gathered your evidence, you need to organize it in a logical way. A typical argumentative essay structure is as follows:
Introduction: Introduce the topic and state your thesis statement.
Body paragraphs: Each body paragraph should focus on one main point that supports your thesis statement. Each body paragraph should begin with a topic sentence that states the main point of the paragraph. Then, provide evidence to support the topic sentence. Finally, conclude the paragraph by summarizing the main point and explaining how it relates to your thesis statement.
Conclusion: Restate your thesis statement and summarize your main points. You may also want to end your conclusion with a call to action, urging the reader to agree with your position on the issue.
5. Revise and edit your essay.
Once you have written your essay, be sure to revise and edit it carefully. Make sure that your argument is clear and well-supported. Also, check for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
Tips for writing a strong argumentative essay
Here are some tips for writing a strong argumentative essay:
- Make sure that your thesis statement is clear and arguable.
- Support your thesis statement with evidence from credible sources.
- Organize your essay in a logical way.
- Address opposing viewpoints and refute them.
- Use clear and concise language.
- Revise and edit your essay carefully.
Example of an argumentative essay
Here is an example of an argumentative essay on the topic of whether or not schools should have uniforms:
Thesis statement: Schools should have uniforms because they promote equality, reduce distractions, and increase school spirit
Schools Should Have Uniforms
School uniforms have been a topic of debate for many years, but the benefits of uniforms clearly outweigh the drawbacks. Uniforms promote equality, reduce distractions, and increase school spirit.
One of the most important benefits of school uniforms is that they promote equality. When all students are dressed the same, there is no way to tell who is rich or poor, fashionable or unfashionable. This can help to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all students.
For example, a study by the National Association of Secondary School Principals found that students who wear uniforms are less likely to report feeling teased or bullied about their clothing. Uniforms can also help to reduce social pressure on students to dress in a certain way, which can be especially helpful for low-income students and students from diverse backgrounds.
Another benefit of school uniforms is that they reduce distractions. When students are not focused on their clothes, they can better focus on their schoolwork. Uniforms can also help to reduce the amount of time that students spend getting ready for school in the morning, which can give them more time to sleep or eat breakfast.
A study by the University of Houston found that students who wear uniforms have higher test scores and attendance rates than students who do not. Uniforms can also help to create a more positive learning environment by reducing the amount of time that teachers have to spend on discipline issues related to clothing.
Finally, school uniforms increase school spirit by creating a sense of unity and community among students. When students are all dressed the same, they feel more connected to each other and to their school. This can lead to increased participation in school activities and a more positive school climate.
For example, a study by the National Association of Elementary School Principals found that students who wear uniforms are more likely to participate in extracurricular activities and have a more positive attitude towards school. Uniforms can also help to reduce gang activity and violence in schools.
Some people argue that school uniforms violate students' right to express themselves through their clothing. However, students can still express themselves through their accessories, such as jewelry, hats, and scarves. Schools can also allow students to have a say in the design of their uniforms.
Additionally, school uniforms are not expensive. There are many affordable uniforms available, and many schools offer financial assistance to students who cannot afford them. Finally, school uniforms are comfortable and stylish. There are a variety of styles to choose from, and uniforms can be made from a variety of fabrics.
Overall, the benefits of school uniforms outweigh the drawbacks. Schools should have uniforms to create a more inclusive, supportive, and positive learning environment for all students.