4A2 - Introduction to essay writing

• Engels
• Middelbare school
• vwo
• Leerjaar 4

Which is the better supernatural creature: a vampire, or a werewolf? Give two reasons for your answer.

Lesson goals

• You can describe what an argumentative essay is
• You can name the elements of an argumentative essay

Introduction to essay writing

Opinion + arguments : basis of an argumentative essay 

The goal of an argumentative essay is to convince / to persuade your reader that your opinion on a controversial topic is the correct one. 

Structure of an argumentative essay

Structure of an argumentative essay

1: Introduce the topic and your opinion on it;

2: Present your first argument in favour of your opinion (thesis);

3: Present your second argument in favour of your opinion (thesis);

4: Present your argument against your opinion (thesis) and refute it;

5: Summarize your opinion and arguments, conclude your essay 

Thesis statement

The thesis statement is divided into two parts: your opinion, and your reasons.​

• Your opinion forms the thesis, and is a summary of the main argument of your essay. ​
• Your reasons form the road map, the arguments you'll put forth to support your opinion. ​​

Each supporting argument forms the basis of the topic sentences in the body of the essay. ​

Thesis statement

Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are the best type of sandwich because they are versatile, easy to make, and taste good.

What is the thesis?

What is the road map? 

Thesis statement

Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are the best type of sandwich

= YOUR OPINION = YOUR THESIS

because they are versatile, easy to make, and taste good

= YOUR REASONS / ARGUMENTS = YOUR ROAD MAP

Thesis statement

Students should have a part-time job during high school because it helps build character, teaches financial responsibility and prepares them for the future.

What is the thesis?

What is the road map?

Thesis statement

Students should have a part-time job during high school

= YOUR OPINION = YOUR THESIS

because it helps build character, teaches financial responsibility and prepares them for the future.

= YOUR REASONS / ARGUMENTS = YOUR ROAD MAP 

Assignment

• Look up an article (on a topic that is controversial)
• Formulate a thesis (=opinion) based on the article
• Come up with two reasons (=arguments) for your thesis 

Bring this to class on Tuesday

In your own words, what is an argumentative essay?