Mastering the Art of Argumentative Writing

Mastering the Art of Argumentative Writing

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you will be able to identify the structure of an argumentative essay and understand the function of each paragraph.

This slide sets the learning objective for the lesson. Make sure to revisit it at the end of the lesson to check if the objective was met.

What do you already know about the structure of an argumentative essay?

Introduction

An argumentative essay presents an argument on a topic and persuades the reader to accept the author's viewpoint. The essay structure consists of introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.

Introduce the topic and explain the purpose of an argumentative essay. Encourage students to ask questions if they have any.

Introduction Paragraph

The introduction paragraph introduces the topic, provides background information and presents the thesis statement.

Explain the purpose of an introduction paragraph and give examples of how to write one. Ask open-ended questions to check students' understanding.

Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs present the arguments and supporting evidence. Each paragraph focuses on one point and starts with a topic sentence.

Explain the function of the body paragraphs and how to write them effectively. Provide examples and encourage students to ask questions.

Topic Sentences

The topic sentence is the main idea of the paragraph and connects to the thesis statement. It sets the tone for the entire paragraph.

Explain the importance of a topic sentence and how it relates to the thesis statement. Provide examples and ask students to come up with their own topic sentences.

Supporting Evidence

Supporting evidence includes facts, statistics, examples, and expert opinions. It strengthens the argument and persuades the reader.

Explain the different types of supporting evidence and how to use them effectively. Provide examples and ask students to find evidence to support their arguments.

Counterarguments

Addressing counterarguments strengthens the argument and shows the author's credibility. It acknowledges opposing viewpoints and refutes them.

Explain the importance of addressing counterarguments and how to do it effectively. Provide examples and ask students to come up with their own counterarguments.

Conclusion Paragraph

The conclusion paragraph summarizes the main points, restates the thesis statement, and concludes the argument.

Explain the purpose of a conclusion paragraph and how to write it effectively. Provide examples and ask students to write their own conclusion paragraphs.

Practice Writing

Now that you understand the structure of an argumentative essay, it's time to practice writing one. Choose a topic and write an argumentative essay using the structure we discussed.

Encourage students to choose a topic that they are passionate about. Provide guidance and feedback as they write their essays.

Peer Review

Exchange essays with a partner and review each other's work. Provide constructive feedback and suggestions for improvement.

Pair students up and give them time to read and review each other's essays. Remind them to be respectful and constructive in their feedback.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.