Counterargument and Refutation | Argumentative Essay | English Writing Skills

Summary

This video from WorldwideSpeak is a writing skills workshop for English learners, focusing on counter-arguments and refutations in opinion essays. The presenter explains the importance of using a counter-argument to show understanding of the opposing view, and a refutation to reject it, strengthening the writer's argument. Examples of school uniforms and standardized tests are used to illustrate how counter-arguments and refutations function in persuasive writing, helping readers see why the writer’s viewpoint is stronger. The video aims to help students write effective argumentative essays.

Takeaways

• 📝 The video focuses on writing skills for English learners, particularly around argumentative or opinion essays.
• 🧐 A counter-argument is an opposing opinion or viewpoint to the main argument presented in an essay.
• 💡 Using a counter-argument shows the reader that the writer understands the opposing view, which strengthens the writer's argument.
• 👎 The counter-argument challenges the main argument, but the writer refutes it by demonstrating why the opposition is weaker.
• 🔄 Refutation is the writer's response to the counter-argument, showing that their argument is stronger and the counter-argument is weak.
• 🎓 A good argumentative essay presents both sides but convinces the reader that the writer's side is more credible based on facts and evidence.
• 📚 The example used in the video compares the argument for school uniforms creating a better learning environment with the counter-argument that uniforms suppress individuality.
• 👕 The refutation in the example argues that students can express individuality in ways other than through their clothing.
• 📝 Another example provided argues against standardized tests for college admissions, with a refutation claiming essays and portfolios offer a better way to assess students' abilities.
• 📖 The overall message is that a strong argumentative essay includes an argument, a counter-argument, and a refutation to persuade the reader effectively.

Q & A

What is a counter-argument?

A counter-argument is an opinion that opposes or is against your main argument or point of view in an essay. It presents the opposite perspective to what you're arguing.

Why is it important to include a counter-argument in an argumentative essay?

Including a counter-argument shows that you understand both sides of the issue and that your argument is stronger based on facts and evidence. It helps to persuade the reader by demonstrating a balanced understanding.

What is the difference between a counter-argument and a refutation?

A counter-argument presents the opposing viewpoint, while a refutation is your response to that counter-argument. The refutation shows why the counter-argument is weak and why your argument is stronger.

Can you provide an example of a counter-argument?

Yes, if your argument is that school uniforms create a better learning environment, the counter-argument might be, 'Some people argue that uniforms take away students' individuality.'

What does it mean to refute a counter-argument?

To refute a counter-argument means to reject or challenge it by providing evidence or reasoning that weakens its credibility and strengthens your own argument.

How can you refute the argument that school uniforms take away individuality?

You can refute this by saying, 'Students can express their individuality in ways other than through their clothing, so uniforms do not necessarily limit self-expression.'

Why does the speaker believe using a refutation is important in an argumentative essay?

The speaker believes refutation is important because it allows you to dismiss the opposing argument, showing that your stance is stronger and backed by better evidence, thus convincing the reader to adopt your viewpoint.

What is an example of a refutation regarding standardized tests in college admissions?

If the counter-argument is that standardized tests are needed to compare students, a refutation could be, 'Studies show that colleges can more accurately compare students by reviewing essays and portfolios, which reflect true academic potential.'

What is the main goal of an argumentative or opinion essay?

The main goal is to persuade the reader to believe your opinion by presenting facts and evidence that support your argument.

How does the speaker suggest structuring an argumentative essay?

The speaker suggests starting with your argument, presenting the counter-argument (the opposing view), and then providing a refutation that explains why the counter-argument is weak and your argument is stronger.