How to Write the BEST Argument Commentary!

Summary

In this video, Tim Freitas walks viewers through the process of writing strong commentary for argumentative essays, focusing on how to effectively connect evidence to claims. Using a Starbucks example, he demonstrates how to write detailed commentary that supports an argument and explains the reasoning behind evidence. Freitas provides five key tips to improve commentary, such as incorporating the word 'because' and using cause-and-effect language. He also shares useful commentary stems to guide students, helping them develop clear and persuasive arguments. By following these strategies, students can elevate their writing to achieve higher scores on exams.

Takeaways

• 😀 Commentary is crucial for explaining how evidence supports your argument in a body paragraph.
• 😀 The word 'because' is essential to develop clear and strong commentary in your writing.
• 😀 Commentary should be at least three sentences long, and ideally, match the length of the evidence.
• 😀 Always refer back to your overarching argument and evidence when providing commentary.
• 😀 Strong commentary uses cause-and-effect language and powerful verbs to explain connections.
• 😀 Students should avoid generic statements like 'this evidence proves my argument' and instead articulate the reasoning behind the connection.
• 😀 Using commentary stems can help students consistently produce strong and detailed commentary.
• 😀 A good structure for commentary includes three sentences: one to explain the claim, one to discuss consequences, and one to extend the reasoning.
• 😀 Example: in the Starbucks case, the commentary explains how people misinterpreted a simple change in cup design as an ideological conflict.
• 😀 The goal of commentary is to explain assumptions and thought processes behind the evidence to help the reader understand your reasoning.
• 😀 Practice and feedback on commentary help students improve their scores on AP exams, especially in the argument writing section.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video?

The video focuses on teaching viewers how to produce strong commentary in argumentative writing, specifically for the AP Lang exam. It provides tips and strategies for developing clear and detailed commentary that connects evidence to the argument.

Why does the speaker emphasize the importance of commentary in writing?

Commentary is important because it explains how evidence justifies a claim, which is crucial for producing a persuasive and well-supported argument. Without commentary, students often fail to articulate the connection between their evidence and claims.

What is the first step to improve commentary according to the speaker?

The first step is to add the word 'because' in the first sentence after the evidence. This forces the writer to articulate their reasoning and makes the connection between evidence and argument clearer.

What are the general tips for writing strong commentary in the video?

The tips include: 1) Adding 'because' to the first sentence after the evidence, 2) Ensuring commentary is at least as long as the evidence, 3) Referring back to both the argument and the example, 4) Using cause-and-effect language and strong verbs, and 5) Practicing with commentary stems provided in the video.

What role do the commentary stems play in writing?

The commentary stems help students structure their commentary more effectively by guiding them to include the claim, explain reasoning, and make connections between evidence and the overarching argument.

What is the significance of cause-and-effect language in commentary?

Cause-and-effect language helps to explain the relationship between evidence and the argument more clearly. Words like 'because,' 'consequently,' and 'therefore' force the writer to explain how and why the evidence supports the claim.

What does the speaker recommend for students who struggle with commentary?

The speaker suggests using the three-sentence commentary stems as a template for developing detailed commentary. These stems encourage students to include all the necessary components of good commentary and improve their ability to articulate their reasoning.

Why is the use of strong verbs important in commentary?

Using strong verbs in commentary helps convey more precise and accurate judgments about the evidence. This enhances the clarity and strength of the argument being made.

What does the speaker mean by 'articulating assumptions' in commentary?

Articulating assumptions means explaining the underlying beliefs or ideas that lead the writer to make certain conclusions about the evidence. This helps the reader understand the logic behind the argument.

How can adding a fourth sentence of commentary help improve an argument?

Adding a fourth sentence of commentary can help extend the argument and provide further clarity. It allows the writer to reach a logical conclusion or expand on a related point, deepening the explanation and reinforcing the argument.