The Argumentative
Essay
Everything you need to know
to write one!
A PowerPoint Presentation by Cara Gratton
Step One
 Choose
a controversial topic that
interests you.
Step Two
 Do
some reading on the topic. Here
is a website that might help you:
www.gc.maricopa.edu/English/topicarg.html
Step Three
 Write
a thesis statement.
 You may want to use one of the
thesis statements provided at:
www.gc.maricopa.edu/English/topicarg.html
Step Four
 Choose
three ideas to support your
argument.
Step Five
 Consider
the opposing arguments. If
you were arguing with your friends,
how would they try to prove you
were wrong?
Step Six
 Organize
your ideas into an outline.
Paragraph 1 – Introduction includes thesis statement
and supporting ideas
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 4
–
–
–
–
Opposing argument and your refutation
Opposing argument and your refutation
Your strongest supporting argument
Paragraph 5
Conclusion includes restatement of thesis
and supporting ideas. Make a prediction, a
recommendation, or a summary.
Step 7
 Follow
your outline and write the
essay.
 Be sure to edit your writing for
grammar, spelling, and word choice
errors.
 Good Luck!