Structure for the Argumentative Paper

You will write your in-class argumentative essay for our next class; if you are absent, your grade will need to make arrangements with me to make up your essay in my office.

Structure of an argumentative essay

1^st par. –serves to get the reader’s attention; presents the issue and the two sides of the issue and in your thesis you state your claim (or your position)—without using 1^st or 2^nd person….. EXAMPLE:

While many scientists feel there is no harm in using animals for experimental use, the truth is that many animals suffer unnecessarily and are treated cruelly in backroom laboratories. 

Body Par. – present rational, logical REASONS to support the thesis; along with the reasons, one provides evidence that is relevant, representative and sufficient. The evidence, whether fact or opinion, may be accompanied by examples and explanation

Next to the last paragraph – “some”???? could be some proponents; some members of the ASPCA; many other scientists; opponents – present the other side of the argument—not in-depth, but you MUST acknowledge that it exists—THEN, refute it with your own logic and reasoning, which is stronger than the opposing view

CONCLUSION – leave the reader with an deliberate impact – this may be the shortest paragraph in the paper; it may contain only 3 sentences—but it MUST contain more than one.