UNIT 8

AN ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY
 OBJECTIVES
.

 Analyze two argumentative essays.

 Examine the elements of a well-structured argument.
 Structure an argument using block and point – by point organization.
 Use modals, phrasal modals, and the subjunctive mode.
 Rebut counterarguments effectively.
 Write, revise, and edit an essay on a controversial issue.
 WHAT IS AN ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY?
 An argumentative essay is a piece of writing that takes a stance on an issue. In
a good argumentative essay, a writer attempts to persuade readers to
understand and support their point of view about a topic by stating their
reasoning and providing evidence to back it up.
 Argumentative essay writing is a common assignment for high school and
college students. Generally, argumentative essay topics relate to science,
technology, politics, and health care.
 The aim of writing argumentative essays is to convince or persuade the
reader.
 One attempts to change the reader’s mind and convince the reader to agree
with the writer’s point of view or claim.
 WHAT ARE THE GOALS OF ARGUMENTATION?
 present an opinion on a controversial topic to the reader;
 explain, clarify, and illustrate that opinion;
 persuade the reader that the opinion supported in the essay is valid by:
a. moving the reader to action,
b. convincing the reader that the opinion is correct, or
c. persuading the reader that the opinion is at least worth considering;
support the opinion using giving evidence: facts, examples, physical description,
support of authority, and statistics;
 present counterarguments to the thesis and refute them respectfully and critically.
 SOME TYPES OF ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY QUESTIONS

 To what extent do you agree or disagree?

 Do you agree or disagree?
 To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statement?
 Argue for or against the following statement…..
 Discuss both views and give your opinion.
 Some examples:
To what extent do you agree?
1. Eating a balanced diet is the most important factor for a healthy life. To what
extent do you agree?
2. Smoking not only harms the smoker, but also those who are nearby. Therefore,
smoking should be banned in public places. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
3. Formal examinations are the only effective way to assess a student's performance.
Continual assessment such as coursework and projects is not a satisfactory way to do
this. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
4. Government investment in the arts, such as music and theatre, is a
waste of money. Governments must invest this money in public services
instead. To what extent do you agree with this statement?
5. Smokers have rights too, so they should be allowed to smoke in public
places. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
6. It is inevitable that as technology advances, traditional cultures will be
lost. It seems that we cannot have these two things together. To what
extent do you agree or disagree?
 Some examples:
Do you agree or disagree?

1. These days, we are seeing an increasing amount of violence on

television, and this is having a negative impact on children's behavior.
Do you agree or disagree?
2. Education is not a luxury, but a basic human right and as such should
be free for everyone irrespective of personal wealth. Do you agree or
disagree?
 Some examples:
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
1. Some people think that computers are more of a hindrance than a help in
today's society. Others believe that they are such indispensable tools that they
would not be able to live or work without them. Discuss both opinions and give
your opinion.
2. Blood sports have become a hot topic for debate in recent years. As society
develops it is increasingly seen as an uncivilized activity and cruel to the helpless
animals that are killed. All blood sports should be banned. Discuss the main
arguments for this statement and give your own opinion.
 STEPS IN PLANNING YOUR ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY

 Underline key vocabulary in the question and write words with the
same or related meaning.
 Decide what kind of response is needed.
 Brainstorm key points for the answer.
 Decide on the structure of the essay.
 ORGANIZATIONAL PATTERNS FOR ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAYS
Block organization Point–by–point organization
Introduction Introduction & Thesis Statement Introduction & Thesis Statement
Paragraph Counter – arguments 1st Counter – argument 1st
1 Transition
Rebuttal argument 1st
Paragraph Counter – arguments 2nd Counter – argument 2nd
Body 2 Transition
Rebuttal argument 2nd
Paragraph Rebuttal argument Counter – argument 3rd
3 Transition
Rebuttal argument 3rd

Conclusion Conclusion & Restate Thesis Conclusion & Restate Thesis

 BLOCK ORGANIZATION
Introduction Introduction & Thesis Statement

Paragraph 1 Counter – arguments 1st

Body
Paragraph 2 Counter – arguments 2nd

Paragraph 3 Rebuttal argument

Conclusion Conclusion & Restate Thesis

 BLOCK ORGANIZATION OF ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY
I. INTRODUCTION:
1. State the topic of the essay (Hook sentence)
2. Background information
3. Thesis statement
II. BODY:
* Para 1:
1. Topic sentence about argument 1st.
2. Explanation and Evidence support argument.
3. Transition sentence to next Para 2.
* Para 2:
1. Topic sentence about argument 2nd.
2. Explanation and Evidence support argument.
3. Transition sentence to next Para 3.
* Para 3:
1. Topic sentence about counterargument.
2. Explanation and Evidence support admit it’s partly true.
3. Refuting that counterargument + Transition to next Conclusion.
III. CONCLUSION:
1. Summarize the main points
2. Give your final opinion or recommendation/ Restate your position
 Technology is being used increasingly in the classroom and some people believe that educators will
become redundant. I somewhat disagree that teachers will be replaced by machines because they are
essential to motivate students and teach them moral values.
The main reason why I think that teachers are essential is because they encourage and discipline
students. Many people find it difficult to be interested in learning new things. Therefore, educators are
needed to make classes more interesting and stimulate students’ desires for learning. Also, in the case of
young people, teachers often need to force students to learn through the use of punishments. For instance,
when I was young, I only did my assignment if it was probably required and checked by the teacher.
Another reason why teachers are needed is because they can teach young people important skills
and values. This is because educators serve as role models to their students and teach them how to
appropriately interact with their peers. Therefore, if people only learn using machines, they will lose the
opportunity to learn important social skills and values.
However, it can not be denied that studying over the internet certainly offers a lot of convenience.
First, we are able to study in the comfort of our own homes, without the need to commute to school.
Second, we can choose to study at any time we like even in the middle of the night.
In conclusion, I somewhat disagree that machines can replace teachers. This is because teachers can
encourage students to learn and teach them how to interact with other people. However, computers do
offer the ability for people to learn anywhere at any time.
 PRACTICE

The threat of nuclear weapons maintains world peace. Nuclear power

provides cheap and clean energy. The benefits of nuclear technology far
outweigh the disadvantages. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
 Before Writing...
 Brainstorm ideas on the subject.

 Identify the main topics.

 Use these topics as headings for organising your notes.

 Decide which side you are on i.e. which arguments are most convincing.

Make sure you choose the side that you can fully support.
 Plan and write an outline for your essay noting down the information you

will include in each paragraph.

 Example Outline

Thesis Statement: Because of its cost, risk and alternatives, the building of
nuclear reactors should not continue.
Topic Sentence 1: The first problem with nuclear reactors is their cost.
Topic Sentence 2: Another problem is the serious consequences of accidents.
Refutation: Some people might claim that there is no real alternative to
nuclear power.
Concluding Statement: In short, although nuclear power is an attractive
option, it has too many disadvantages.
 INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPH

Your introduction should:

 Introduce the topic with a general statement
 State why it is important
 State there is a difference of opinion about this topic
 The thesis statement must state what YOUR claim is and can
include the “parts” of the argument you are going to state (In my
opinion, I completely agree/disagree or According to…/ Following
to… , so I completely agree/disagree or In fact/ Factually/In
reality/It is true that … , so I completely agree/disagree).
 EXAMPLE INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPH
There has been much discussion about the use of nuclear power ever since the
first reactor was built. People who support nuclear power think that it provides
a cheap and effective means of supplying energy needs. However, in reality it
is not cheap at all and the dangers are well-known after the accidents at
Chernobyl and Three Mile Island. The fact is that nuclear power is a tried,
tested and failed technology. Because of its cost, risk and alternatives, the
building of nuclear reactors should not continue.
 BODY PARAGRAPHS
 Arguments for: The reasons “parts” of your thesis statement will be in
your body pparagraphs.
 Give clear arguments for your claim with support (examples, statistics,
explanations, etc.)
 Use transition words as you move from paragraph to paragraph (Firstly,
secondly, furthermore, in addition, moreover, finally).
 You can also use any of the transitions from the other essay types as long as
they are appropriate for your argument. (You may want to compare/contrast
things, give reasons/results, descriptions, definitions etc.)
 REFUTATION PARAGRAPH
 This is also used to support your claim.
 Use the counterarguments to show that your idea is stronger.
 Do not focus only on the opposing ideas.
When you can think of the opposing opinion but you have not seen it written
anywhere:
could be claimed
It may be asserted that... However,
might be argued
When you have seen the opposing opinion written in another text:

claimed
It has been asserted that... However,
argued
 Example Refutation
Some people might claim that there is no real alternative to a new generation
of nuclear reactors. However, combined heat and power units, which generate
electricity, are already economical for large houses or blocks of flats and
smaller units will be on the market next year. Local generation of electricity
eliminates the enormous losses of wasted heat in electricity generation by
fossil fuels or nuclear reactors. Wind turbines and solar cells on the roof can
also provide home solutions and will become more economical as costs come
down with mass production.
 CONCLUDING PARAGRAPH

Your conclusion should:

 Restate the main claim
 Present one or two general sentences which accurately summarise your
arguments which support the main premise
 Provide a general warning of the consequences of not following the
premise that you put forward and/or a general statement of how the
community will benefit from following that premise
 Your turn

Smoking not only harms the smoker, but also those who are nearby. Therefore,
smoking should be banned in public places. To what extent do you agree or
disagree?
 I. INTRODUCTION
 Paraphrase the statement: Mention that smoking affects both smokers
and non-smokers.
 State your position: Clearly express whether you agree or disagree
with the ban on smoking in public places.
 Provide a brief overview of the main points: Indicate what the body
paragraphs will cover.
 II. BODY
Body Paragraph 1: Harm to Non-Smokers
 Topic sentence: Explain how secondhand smoke harms people nearby.
 Supporting details:
- Health risks such as respiratory problems, heart disease, and cancer.
- Examples of statistics showing how passive smoking impacts non-
smokers, including children and vulnerable groups.
 Concluding sentence: Reinforce the idea that public smoking puts
others at risk, making a ban necessary.
Body Paragraph 2: Public Health and Clean Environment
 Topic sentence: Discuss the broader public health benefits of banning
smoking in public places.
 Supporting details:
- Reducing overall smoking rates due to fewer opportunities to smoke.
- Cleaner public spaces, free from cigarette litter and odor.
 Mention how a healthier environment encourages a better quality of
life for everyone.
Body Paragraph 3 (Optional): Address Counterarguments
 Topic sentence: Acknowledge potential opposing views (e.g., personal
freedom).
 Rebuttal:
- Explain that public health takes precedence over personal freedom in
shared spaces.
- Point out designated smoking areas as a reasonable compromise.
 III. CONCLUSION

 Summarize your main points: Restate the harms of secondhand smoke

and the benefits of a public ban.
 Reinforce your position: Clearly state that you agree/disagree with
banning smoking in public places.
 End with a final thought: Suggest a future action or highlight the
importance of public health.
 Smoking poses a serious threat not only to the health of smokers but also to those exposed to secondhand smoke.
Public smoking has long been a subject of debate, with many advocating for stricter regulations due to its detrimental
effects on society. I strongly agree that smoking should be banned in public places because it protects non-smokers from
passive smoking, promotes public health, and ensures cleaner shared spaces.
One of the primary reasons for banning smoking in public places is the harm it causes to non-smokers. Secondhand
smoke, which is involuntarily inhaled by those nearby, contains over 7,000 harmful chemicals, many of which are toxic and
carcinogenic. Studies have shown that exposure to secondhand smoke increases the risk of respiratory diseases, heart
conditions, and lung cancer among non-smokers. Children and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to its effects,
with increased cases of asthma and low birth weight in infants linked to passive smoking. By prohibiting smoking in public
areas, the risk of such health issues can be significantly reduced.
Banning smoking in public places also contributes to broader public health improvements. When smoking is restricted
in communal areas, it discourages the habit by reducing opportunities for smokers to indulge. This can lead to a decrease in
smoking rates over time, resulting in fewer smoking-related illnesses and healthcare costs. Countries that have implemented
such bans have witnessed a notable decline in smoking prevalence and smoking-related diseases. Therefore, restricting
smoking safeguards immediate bystanders and promotes long-term societal well-being.
Critics of public smoking bans often argue that such measures infringe upon personal freedom. While individuals have
the right to make personal choices, this right should not come at the expense of others’ health and well-being. Everyone
shares public spaces, and safeguarding public health should precede individual preferences. Moreover, designated smoking
areas can be provided to accommodate smokers without exposing non-smokers to harmful effects.
In conclusion, smoking in public places should be banned to protect non-smokers from the harmful effects of
secondhand smoke, improve overall public health, and maintain cleaner environments. While personal freedom is
important, it should not endanger the health of others. Therefore, governments and policymakers should implement and
enforce smoking bans in public spaces to promote a healthier, safer society for all.
 POINT–BY–POINT ORGANIZATION
Introduction Introduction & Thesis Statement
Paragraph 1 Counter – argument 1st
Transition
Rebuttal argument 1st
Body Paragraph 2 Counter – argument 2nd
Transition
Rebuttal argument 2nd
Paragraph 3 Counter – argument 3rd
Transition
Rebuttal argument 3rd
Conclusion Conclusion & Restate Thesis
 POINT - BY - POINT ORGANIZATION OF ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY
I. INTRODUCTION:
1. Hook sentence
2. Background information
3. Thesis statement
II. BODY:
* Para 1:
1. Topic sentence about 1st argument + Explanation and Evidence support 1st argument.
2. Topic sentence about 1st counterargument + Explanation and Evidence support admit it’s partly true + Refuting that 1 st
counterargument + Transition to next Para 2.
* Para 2:
1. Topic sentence about 2nd argument + Explanation and Evidence support 2 nd argument.
2. Topic sentence about 2nd counterargument + Explanation and Evidence support admit it’s partly true + Refuting that 2 nd
counterargument+ Transition to next Para 3.
* Para 3:
1. Topic sentence about 3rd argument + Explanation and Evidence support 3 rd argument.
2. Topic sentence about 3rd counterargument + Explanation and Evidence support admit it’s partly true + Refuting that 3 rd
counterargument + Transition to next Conclusion.
III. CONCLUSION:
1. Summarize the main points
2. Give your final opinion or recommendation/ Restate your position
 Your turn
- Work in pairs
- Analyze the writing task
- Brainstorm ideas
- Then make an outline for the following topic

Should students be required to wear school

uniforms? To what extent do you agree or disagree?
 Introduction
School uniforms have been a topic of debate for many years. While some
argue that uniforms create a sense of equality and discipline, others believe that they
limit personal expression. This essay will discuss both sides of the argument before
concluding with my viewpoint.
 Body
 Body 1: Equality vs. Individuality
 Pro-uniform:
One key reason supporters advocate for school uniforms is that they promote
equality among students. When everyone wears the same outfit, there are fewer
opportunities for discrimination based on clothing choices. For instance, students
from less wealthy families don’t have to worry about wearing expensive or trendy
clothes to fit in. This fosters a more inclusive school environment.
 Anti-uniform:
On the other hand, opponents argue that uniforms suppress individuality.
Clothing is a form of self-expression, and requiring students to wear the same outfit
restricts their ability to showcase their personality and style. As a result, students
may feel stifled and less confident in expressing themselves.
 Body 2: Discipline vs. Comfort
 Pro-uniform:
Another reason people support school uniforms is that they instill a sense of
discipline. Wearing uniforms can create a more serious atmosphere conducive to
learning. A study conducted by XYZ School found that students in uniform reported
fewer instances of distractions during class compared to those in casual clothes.
 Anti-uniform:
Conversely, critics point out that uniforms can be uncomfortable, especially if
they are made of low-quality material or do not fit properly. Uncomfortable clothing
can negatively affect a student’s focus and well-being, ultimately hindering their
academic performance
 Conclusion
While both sides present valid arguments, I believe that the benefits of
wearing school uniforms, such as promoting equality and discipline, outweigh the
drawbacks. Therefore, schools should consider implementing uniform policies to
create a more inclusive and focused learning environment.
 The question of whether students should be required to wear school uniforms has sparked considerable
debate. While some people argue that uniforms promote equality and discipline in schools, others believe that
they limit students’ individuality and freedom of expression. This essay will examine both perspectives before
explaining why I believe that school uniforms are generally beneficial.
On one hand, many people believe that school uniforms help create a more equal and focused learning
environment. Uniforms can reduce peer pressure and bullying by minimizing visible differences in students'
clothing, especially those linked to social or economic status. Furthermore, wearing the same attire can promote
a sense of unity and school identity, encouraging discipline and reducing distractions in the classroom. For
instance, schools with uniform policies often report improved student behavior and stronger school spirit.
On the other hand, opponents argue that uniforms restrict students' freedom to express themselves through
their clothing choices. They believe that allowing students to choose what they wear helps build confidence,
creativity, and a sense of personal identity. Additionally, some critics point out that uniforms do not necessarily
lead to better academic outcomes, and they may impose extra financial pressure on families who need to
purchase specific clothing items. From this viewpoint, education should focus more on developing critical
thinking and individuality than enforcing dress codes.
In conclusion, while there are valid concerns about restricting self-expression, I believe that the benefits of
school uniforms outweigh the drawbacks. Uniforms help reduce social inequality, foster discipline, and create a
sense of community within the school. A balanced approach, such as allowing occasional non-uniform days,
could offer students the opportunity to express themselves while maintaining the overall advantages of a
uniform policy.