Lecture on Argumentative Essay Writing

Learning Objective

• Compose an argumentative essay.

Definitions

• Argumentative: Tendency to disagree or argue.
• Essay: A short piece of writing on a particular subject.
• Argumentative Essay: A type of writing aiming to convince the reader to agree with the writer's opinion on a controversial or debatable issue.

Example Issue

• Malacañang advised mayors to follow the COVID-19 vaccination priority list.
  • Agree: Mayors should not skip the vaccine line as they are not in the priority list.
  • Disagree: Mayors should be prioritized to influence constituents to get vaccinated.

Writing an Argumentative Essay

Step 1: Formulate a Claim or Argument

• Choose a side on the issue.
• Example Claim: "Mayors should not skip the COVID-19 vaccine line as they are not in the priority list."

Step 2: Support Your Claim with Evidence

• Use prior knowledge, personal experiences, expert opinions, and reliable sources.
• Ensure facts are accurate and from reliable sources.

Step 3: Structure of an Argumentative Essay

• Introduction:

  • Introduce the issue.
  • Give background information.
  • State your claim or thesis statement (often the last sentence of the introductory paragraph).

• Body:

  • Present evidence and reasons to support your claim.
  • Each paragraph covers one reason and supporting details, such as examples, statistics, or quotes.
  • Include a counterclaim and rebuttal:
    • Counterclaim: Opposing argument.
    • Rebuttal: Refute the opposing argument.

• Conclusion:

  • Restate the claim or thesis statement.
  • Include a quotation or call to action.

Example Argumentative Essay

• Issue: Public display industry keeps marine mammals captive, especially whales and dolphins.
  • Introduction: Marine mammals should not be held in captivity.
  • Body:
    • Reason 1: Captivity causes health problems (chemicals, bacteria).
    • Reason 2: Abusive treatment shortens lifespan.
    • Reason 3: Poor breeding success.
  • Counterclaim: Captivity aids study and research.
  • Rebuttal: Scientists prefer studying in natural environments.
  • Conclusion: Marine mammals should be free.
    • Quotation from Mahatma Gandhi and a call to action.

Summary

• Steps in writing: Formulate claim, support with evidence, write essay (introduction, body, conclusion).
• Key components: Claim, evidence, counterclaim, rebuttal, conclusion.

Additional Notes

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