How to Write an Argumentative Essay with Example

Summary

This video script outlines the structure of an argumentative essay: a five-paragraph format comprising an introductory hook, two to three background sentences, and a thesis statement. It continues with two body paragraphs detailing reasons and evidence to support the thesis, each starting with a transition word. The third body paragraph introduces a counterargument followed by a rebuttal, both backed by evidence. The conclusion restates the thesis, summarizes supporting reasons, and ends with a strong statement. Lastly, the script mentions the importance of a reference list, formatted alphabetically with proper indentation.

Takeaways

• 📝 Argumentative essays typically have five paragraphs: an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• 🎓 The introduction should start with a hook, followed by background information, and end with a clear thesis statement.
• 📌 The thesis statement is crucial as it states the writer's position on the topic and outlines the arguments to be presented.
• 🔍 Body paragraphs 1 and 2 should provide reasons, evidence, and explanations to support the thesis, starting with a transition word.
• 📑 Credible evidence includes examples, quotes, facts, and statistics, and it's important to cite the sources used.
• ✏️ Each body paragraph should conclude with an example or explanation that demonstrates what the evidence proves.
• 🔄 The third body paragraph should present the counterargument to the thesis, followed by a rebuttal supported by evidence.
• 🏁 The conclusion restates the thesis, summarizes the supporting reasons, and ends with a strong final statement on the topic.
• 🚫 The conclusion should not introduce new reasons or evidence.
• 📚 A reference list or bibliography is always included, with entries alphabetized and formatted correctly.
• 👍 Encouragement to like, subscribe, and comment on the video is given as a call to action for viewers.

Q & A

What is the structure of an argumentative essay according to the transcript?

An argumentative essay typically consists of five paragraphs: an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

What is the purpose of the hook in the introduction of an argumentative essay?

The hook is an attention-grabbing statement used to draw the reader's interest to the topic at hand.

How many background sentences are usually included in the introduction of an argumentative essay?

The introduction includes two to three background sentences about the topic.

What is the significance of the thesis statement in an argumentative essay?

The thesis statement, also known as the claim, is the most important part of the essay as it clearly states the writer's position on the topic.

What are the key elements of the first two body paragraphs in an argumentative essay?

The first two body paragraphs provide reasons, evidence, and explanations to support the argument presented in the thesis statement.

What is the role of transition words in the body paragraphs of an argumentative essay?

Transition words are used at the beginning of each body paragraph to guide the reader through the structure of the essay.

What types of credible evidence can be used to support the reasons in the body paragraphs?

Credible evidence can include examples, quotes, facts, and statistics.

Why is it important to provide in-text citations when using evidence from other authors?

In-text citations are important to give credit to the authors whose work is used as evidence, which helps maintain academic integrity.

What is the function of the third body paragraph in an argumentative essay?

The third body paragraph presents the counter argument and rebuttal, which adds credibility to the essay and helps gain the reader's trust.

How should the conclusion of an argumentative essay be structured?

The conclusion should restate the thesis, summarize the reasons supporting the thesis, and end with a strong statement about the topic without introducing new reasons or evidence.

What is included in the reference list of an argumentative essay?

The reference list includes all the sources used in the essay, which are alphabetized by the author's name or article title, with the first line of each citation aligned left and the following lines indented.