The Argumentative (Persuasive) Essay (Page 2 of 4) in pdf

Body paragraphs that include evidential support

Each paragraph should be limited to the discussion of one general idea. This will allow for clarity and

direction throughout the essay.

In addition, such conciseness creates an ease of readability for one’s audience.

It is important to note that each paragraph in the body of the essay must have some logical

connection to the thesis statement in the opening paragraph.

Some paragraphs will directly support the thesis statement with evidence collected during research. It

is also important to explain how and why the evidence supports the thesis.

Evidential support (whether factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal).

The argumentative essay requires well-researched, accurate, detailed, and current information to

support the thesis statement and consider other points of view.

Some factual, logical, statistical, or anecdotal evidence should support the thesis. However, students

must consider multiple points of view when collecting evidence.

A successful and well-rounded argumentative essay will also discuss opinions not aligning with the

thesis. It is unethical to exclude evidence that may not support the thesis.

It is not the student’s job to point out how other positions are wrong outright, but rather to explain

how other positions may not be well informed or up to date on the topic.

A conclusion that does not simply restate the thesis, but readdresses it in light of

the evidence provided.

It is at this point of the essay that students may begin to struggle.

This is the portion of the essay that will leave the most immediate impression on the mind of the

reader. Therefore, it must be effective and logical.

Do not introduce any new information into the conclusion; rather, synthesize the information

presented in the body of the essay.

Restate why the topic is important, review the main points, and review your thesis. You may also want

to include a short discussion of more research that should be completed in light of your work, or

describe how the narrowed topic could apply to the “bigger picture.”

How can I determine my Complete Argument?

Perhaps it is helpful to think of an essay in terms of a conversation or debate with a classmate. If I

were to discuss the cause of World War II and its current effect on those who lived through the

tumultuous time, there would be a beginning, middle, and end to the conversation. In fact, if I were to

end the argument in the middle of my second point, questions would arise concerning the current

effects on those who lived through the conflict. Therefore, the argumentative essay must be complete,

and logically so, leaving no doubt as to its intent or argument.

The Argumentative (Persuasive) Essay Page 2