Argumentative Essay

1. Argumentative Essay Use the power of language to inform and influence others in a logical way

2. Common Core standards • Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics and text, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence. • Introduce a precise, knowledgeable claim, establish the significant of the claim, distinguish the claim from opposing claims, and create an organization that logically sequences claims, counterclaims, reasons and evidence.

3. Argument Writing’s many forms: • Speeches • Editorials • Critical reviews • Essays • Legal briefs

4. Successful Argumentative Essays Should: • State the issue and the writer’s claim or position. • Provide appropriate support • Have a reasonable and respectful tone • Address opposing views (counter claim/counter argument) • Use sound logic and effective language • Conclude by summing up reasons or a call to action (what do you want your reader to think or do after reading?)

5. Key Techniques • First- Hook • Hook your readers and make a lasting impression • Use a memorable quotation, anecdote or statistic • Second- Clarify your position • What do you believe about the issue and what has lead to your belief? • Third- Know your Audience Who will read it? What do they already know and believe about the issue? What objections to your position might they have? What additional information might they need to be persuaded? What tone will be most effective?

6. Key Techniques • Fourth- Support your opinion. • Facts, statistics, examples, quotations, anecdotes, or expert opinions • What evidence might answer possible objections to your position?

7. Organization Option #1 • Introduction- includes the issue and states your position. • Reason 1- evidence and support • Reason 2- evidence and support • Reason 3- evidence and support • Counter arguments • Conclusion- restatement of position and recommended call to action

8. Organization Option #2 • Introduction- includes the issue and states your position. • Reason 1- evidence and support plus counterargument • Reason 2- evidence and support plus counterargument • Reason 3- evidence and support plus counterargument • Conclusion- restatement of position and recommended call to action

9. Scoring Rubric Annotate: With a partner, read and annotate • Underline Claim • Put an “S” next to evidence/support for claim • Number Reasons or Supports for Claim • “Star” Counter claims/arguments • Put a “C” next to evidence that is cited from another source. • Put a “T” next to transition words or phrases. • Put a squiggly underline under the “call to action” in the conclusion.