Before Writing...
J Brainstorm ideas on the subject.
J Identify the main topics.
J Use these topics as headings for organising your notes.
J Decide which side you are on i.e. which arguments are most convincing. Make sure you choose the side that you can fully support.
J Plan and write an outline for your essay noting down the information you will include in each paragraph.
Introductory Paragraph
Your introduction should:
ü Introduce the topic with a general statement
ü State why it is important
ü State there is a difference of opinion about this topic
ü Thesis statement must state what YOUR claim is and can include the “parts” of the argument you are going to state.
Body Paragraphs
> Arguments for: The reasons “parts” of your thesis statement will be in your body paragraphs.
> Give clear arguments for your claim with support (examples, statistics, explanations, etc.)
> Use transition words as you move from paragraph to paragraph (Firstly, secondly, furthermore, in addition, moreover, finally).
> You can also use any of the transitions from the other essay types as long as they are appropriate for your argument. (You may want to compare/contrast things, give reasons/results, descriptions, definitions etc.)
Refutation Paragraph
v This is also used to support your claim.
v Use the counter arguments to show that your idea is the stronger one.
v Do not focus only on the opposing ideas.
Useful words and phrases
could be claimed
It may be asserted that... However,
might be argued
Concluding paragraph
Your conclusion should:
- Restate the main claim
- Present one or two general sentences which accurately summarise your arguments which support the main premise
- Provide a general warning of the consequences of not following the premise that you put forward and/or a general statement of how the community will benefit from following that premise