Writing the refutation (opposing) paragraph

1. Writing the refutation (opposing) paragraph

2. Why do we need it? • When writing an argumentative essay, it is necessary to acknowledge the valid points of the opposing argument. • Not including a refutation paragraph makes the writer sound more narrow-minded and the essay becomes much less effective. An effective refutation paragraph helps the writer establishcredibility with the audience

3. Writing a strong refutation paragraph will help strengthen your essay because it shows that you have thoughtfully considered both sides of the argument before arriving at your argumentative position.

4. Be careful though…! • Picking a valid and strong point of your opponent’s argument helps you if you can effectively refute it. If you can’t, then pick another point to refute. • Don’t let your opposing argument sound better than your own!! • REFUTE, REFUTE, REFUTE!!!

5. 4 parts of refutation paragraph • 1st: Introduce the opposing argument • Summarizes the opposition’s viewpoint openly and honestly • Some possible ways to begin: • But_____is not completely inaccurate • It is often argued that… • It is true that • Opposing views claim…

6. 2nd: Acknowledge parts of the opposition that are valid: • Acknowledge that some of the opposition’s claims may be valid, but still show that your claims are stronger • Some possible ways to begin: • Admittedly,… • Certainly,… • Of course… • One cannot deny that… • At the same time…

7. 3rd: Counter the argument: • Introduce the rebuttal; refute the opposition’s claims showing they are incorrect or inconsequential • Some possible ways to begin: • Nevertheless… • However… • On the other hand… • But…

8. 4th: Introduce the conclusion: • Summarize why the opposition’s argument is not a sufficient solution • Some possible ways to begin: • Thus… • Therefore… • As a result…