Quick Reference

Formal Writing Style

Avoid using colloquial words/expressions. (Instead, use
words such as children, man/boy, wonderful, many, etc.)
Avoid contractions. (Write out full words: cannot, will not.)
Write in third person
Avoid addressing readers using second person pronouns.
(Use one, one's, the reader, the reader's, etc.)
Avoid using abbreviated words. (Use full versionssuch as
photograph, television, etc.)
Longer and more complex sentences are preferred. (Short,
simple sentences reflect poorly on the writer.)

Transitions
Words and phrases that signal
Data

Words and phrases that signal

Counterclaim

Words and phrases that signal

Rebuttal

Words and phrases that signal

Conclusion

for example, to illustrate, in

this case, specifically, once,
for instance, such as, to
demonstrate, take the case
of
others would say, it might
seem that, however, on the
other hand, while, instead,
yet, despite, still, nevertheless,
even though, in contrast, but
but, however, in contrast, on
the other hand, on the
contrary, yet, nevertheless,
balanced against, differing
from, variation, still, unlike,
conversely, otherwise
to summarize, in short, in brief,
in sum, in summary, to sum
up, in conclusion, to
conclude, finally

Argumentative
Writing
made easy

Ms. Naimo

Argumentative Writing
Arguments are used for several reasons:

to change the readers point of view,

to bring about some action on the readers part, or
to ask the reader to accept the writers explanation or
evaluation of a concept, issue, or problem.

An argument is a reasoned, logical way of demonstrating that

your position, belief, or conclusion is valid. You defend your interpretations or judgments with data, warranting and backing.

Important Components of an Argument

Claim

An argument is usually a main idea, often called a "claim" or "thesis

statement," backed up with evidence that supports the idea. It should
be debatable and narrowed rather than broad.

Reason and Data

A writer has to back up a claim with reasons and evidence theyve
gathered to support the claimfacts, figures, details, quotations, or
other sources of data and information that provide support for claims.
The strength of the evidence, and the use of it, can make or break the
argument.

Warrant
A writer must interpret the data that supports the reason or rebuttal.

Backing
A warrant is not enough. A writer must also explain the logic and
reasoning that is necessary to support the reason or rebuttal.

Counterclaim
A writer can strengthen an argument and show a deep
understanding of the issue being discussed by anticipating and addressing a claim that negates or disagrees with the thesis/claim. Considering
what someone who disagrees with a position might have to say about
the argument shows that the writer has thought things through, and can
eliminate some of the reasons the reader might have for not accepting
the argument.

Rebuttal
In a rebuttal, the writer presents evidence that negates or disagrees
with the counterclaim. If the counterargument is credible, the writer
suggests why it's relatively less important or less likely than what the writer is proposing, so the counterargument

Organizing Your Argument

Your goal is to create an organized argument that establishes
clear relationships among claim(s), counterclaims, reasons,
and data.
Why? Good organization helps readers follow the writers
reasoning processes. It also offers a clear explanation of each
point the writer makes in support of his/her opinion. Additionally,
good organization shows that the writer knows what s/he is
talking about.
Generally, your argumentative essay will be organized in this
fashion:
Introduction
Grabs the readers attention that leads to the writers point.
Explains the controversy or context of the claim.
States the claimwhich must be debatable and focused.
Body Paragraphs
Reason (M)
Expand on Reason (E)
Link to Data (L)
Warrant
(E)
Backing
Conclude (C)

Conclusion
Stresses the importance of the claim.
Gives the argument a sense of completeness.
Leaves a final impression on the reader.

Transitions
You need to use words, phrases, and clauses to link the
major sections of your essay so it is cohesive. You must use
a transition between your Counterclaim and Rebuttal

Style
You will have to adopt a formal writing style for argumentation.
You will also have to establish an objective tone. You can not
use the word I, you, we or me.