Write an Argument Essay

Write your own argument essay on one of the following topics or on a topic of your own choice. Use Argument at a glance as a basic organizer (see “Organization in Argument”), and follow the Writing Guide: Argument checklist as you write and revise. Select an issue that you care about so that you can argue powerfully.

COLLEGE
  • Present your instructor with reasons why you should be able to make up a test that you missed.
  • Write a letter to the Student Affairs office proposing a student service that does not currently exist.
WORK
  • Argue that you should get a promotion.
  • Argue that employers should or should not monitor employee e-mail use.
EVERYDAY LIFE
  • Argue against a rent increase.
  • Take a stand on a local issue or policy that you believe is unfair.

WRITING GUIDE: ARGUMENT

STEPS IN ARGUMENT HOW TO DO THE STEPS
Focus.
  • Think about your position on an issue and how you can persuade your readers of that position.
Explore your topic. See Chapter 2.
  • Think about why you have taken the position you have.
  • Prewrite to find good support for your argument.
Write a thesis statement. image See Chapter 3.
  • Write a thesis statement that includes your topic and your position.
  • Make sure it is a strong statement with a clear position.
Support your thesis. See Chapter 3.
  • Provide facts, examples, and expert opinions to support your position.
  • Examine your reasons to make sure they are not faulty reasoning (see “Support in Argument”).
  • Consider the opposing view.
  • Give details to strengthen each of your main points.
Write a draft. See Chapter 4.
  • Arrange your points by order of importance, leaving the one that will have the most impact until last.
  • Write topic sentences for each major point and paragraphs that demonstrate and prove them.
  • Write a conclusion that has energy and reminds your readers of your position and main support for it.
Revise your draft. See Chapter 4.
  • With your audience in mind, read to make sure your supporting points are persuasive and complete.
  • Add transitions.
  • Improve your introduction, thesis, and conclusion.
Edit your draft. See Chapters 16 through 18.
  • Correct errors in grammar, spelling, word use, and punctuation.
Evaluate your writing.
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