ACADEMIC ENGLISH: Giving voice to an argument
Some cultures value writers who argue with force and express their superiority. Other cultures value writers who argue subtly or indirectly, often with an apology. Academic audiences in the United States will expect your writing to be assertive and confident—neither aggressive nor passive. Create an assertive tone by acknowledging different opinions and supporting your view with specific evidence.
TOO AGGRESSIVE
Of course prayer should be discouraged in public schools. Only foolish people think that organized prayer is good for everyone.
TOO PASSIVE
I might be wrong, but I think that organized prayer should be discouraged in public schools.
ASSERTIVE TONE
Organized prayer should be discouraged in public schools because it violates the religious freedom guaranteed by the First Amendment.
If you are uncertain about the tone of your work, ask for help at your school’s writing center.