Definition Argumentative Essay
An argumentative essay is a type of academic writing. It presents a well-structured and coherent argument on a particular topic or issue. Its objective is to persuade the readers to adopt a certain position about an issue. Or take a particular stance about some debate.
This type of essay typically begins with an introduction, having a clear thesis statement that presents the writer’s stance. The body paragraphs then present supporting evidence, examples, and analysis to back up the argument. It also addresses opposite perspectives or counterarguments. The conclusion of the essay summarizes the main points, restating the thesis, and reinforcing the writer’s own position. Here are the main features of a good argumentative essay that students must include in their essays.
Main Features of an Argumentative Essay
An argumentative essay typically consists of several key elements/features such as follows:
| Element | Detail |
| 1. Introduction | Captures the reader’s attention through a good hook.Provides background information on the topic.Includes a good thesis statement |
| 2. Clear thesis statement | Presents the main argument.Placed at the end of the introduction.Provides a map to the readers.This is the heart of an argumentative essay. |
| 3. Evidence and support | Body paragraphs present evidence, examples, and logical reasoning.Supports the thesis statement.Includes data, expert opinions, research findings, anecdotes, or logical arguments.Should be supported by relevant and credible sources. These are integral parts of an argumentative essay. |
| 4. Counterarguments | Addressing counterarguments demonstrates the writer’s ability to anticipate and address potential objectionsAcknowledges opposing viewpoints.Strengthens the argument by refuting opposing claims and providing a well-rounded analysis. |
| 5. Logical structure | Each body paragraph focuses on a single point or piece of evidence that supports the thesis statement.Paragraphs are organized in a logical sequence with smooth transitions between ideas. |
| 6. Persuasive language and rhetorical devices | Effective use of persuasive language and rhetorical devices to engage the reader and enhance the impact of the argument.Includes emotional appeals through figurative language, rhetorical questions, and concise wording.This type of language is necessary for an argumentative essay. |
| 7. Conclusion | Restates the thesis statement.Summarizes the main points discussed in the essay.Reinforces the writer’s stance.May provide a call to action or a final thought about or on the topic. |
| 8. Proper citation and referencing | If outside sources are used, provide proper citations and references to give credit to the original authors.Following a recognized citation style (e.g., APA or MLA) ensures academic integrity and allows readers to verify the credibility of the sources used. |
Reviewing these features reminds that by incorporating these elements, an argumentative essay presents a coherent, cohesive, and persuasive argument on a specific topic, making students and writers good in presenting logical arguments.
Types of Argumentative Essay
| Type of Essay | Main Features |
| Classical Argument | Traditional structure |
| Introduction with thesis statement | |
| Body paragraphs with supporting evidence and counterarguments | |
| Logical reasoning and evidence | |
| Persuasive aim | |
| Rogerian Argument | Focus on finding common ground and compromise |
| Acknowledgment and addressing of opposing viewpoints | |
| Emphasis on understanding and cooperation | |
| Respectful tone | |
| Toulmin Argument | Use of logic and evidence |
| Claim, grounds, warrant, qualifiers, and rebuttals | |
| Clear and logical structure | |
| Deductive Argument | Starts with a general statement and narrows down |
| Relies on syllogistic reasoning | |
| Persuasion through the logical conclusion | |
| Inductive Argument | Starts with specific evidence and draws general conclusions |
| Relies on empirical evidence and inferences | |
| Supports claim through examples and observations | |
| Evaluation Argument | Assesses the value or quality of a subject |
| Presents criteria for evaluation | |
| Provides evidence and analysis to support judgment | |
| Causal Argument | Explores cause-and-effect relationship |
| Analyzes contributing factors | |
| Presents evidence of causation | |
| Definition Argument | Focuses on clarifying the meaning of a concept |
| Presents different definitions and perspectives | |
| Argues for a particular understanding of the concept |
These are the main features and characteristics of each type of argumentative essay. Keep in mind that these types are not mutually exclusive, and an essay can incorporate features of another essay or of multiple essays, depending on the specific argument.
Common Structure of Argumentative Essay (Classical Argumentative Essay)
The structure of a classical argumentative essay follows a specific format. This format helps the students/writers to organize and present their arguments. Here is the typical structure of a classical argumentative essay:
| Structure Part | Details |
| 1. Introduction | Hook: Attention-grabbing statement, anecdote, or question |
| Background Information: Context and background on the topic | |
| Thesis Statement: Clear and concise main argument or claim | |
| 2. Background/Context | Necessary background information or context |
| Definition of key terms or concepts if needed | |
| 3. Body Paragraphs | Each paragraph focuses on a separate supporting point |
| Topic Sentence: Introduces the main idea of the paragraph | |
| Evidence and Examples: Supporting evidence, statistics, etc. | |
| Explanation and Analysis: Link evidence to the thesis | |
| Counterarguments and Rebuttal: Address opposing viewpoints | |
| Transition: Use transitional words/phrases for paragraph flow | |
| 4. Conclusion | Restate Thesis: Reinforce the main argument |
| Summary of Main Points: Summarize key supporting evidence | |
| Final Thought: Strong closing statement | |
| Call to Action (Optional): Encourage specific action | |
| 5. Works Cited/References | Provide a list of references if external sources were used |
This table outlines the main components and details to include in each section. It provides a structured approach to organizing the essay. It also ensures the inclusion of all parts. However, it must be kept in mind that essay prompts and requirements may ask for different organizational structures with changes in parts.
Functions/Roles of Argumentative Essay
Here are some of the important roles/functions that a good argumentative essay play. These functions are as follows.
- Persuasive
- Critical thinking
- Communication
- Research and Analysis
- Refutation of Counterarguments
- Education and Learning
- Influence and Impact
- Development of Writing and Communication Skills
- Examination of Ethical and Moral Issues
- Engagement with Different Perspectives
In fact, argumentative essays serve as a platform for writers to express their ideas, persuade others, engage in critical thinking, and contribute to good discussions to contribute to the body of knowledge in the specific field.
Examples of Argumentative Essay Topics in English Literature/Writings
- The Role of Colonialism in J.M. Coetzee’s Works: Investigate how J.M. Coetzee’s novels, such as Disgrace or Waiting for the Barbarians critically examine the impact of colonialism on societies, shedding light on power dynamics, identity, and resistance.
- Feminist Critique in Virginia Woolf’s To the Lighthouse: Analyze Virginia Woolf’s novel To The Lighthouse through a feminist lens, exploring how it challenges traditional gender roles, addresses women’s experiences, and offers a nuanced portrayal of female agency and empowerment.
- Postcolonial Perspectives in Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart: Examine Chinua Achebe’s acclaimed novel, Things Fall Apart, and discuss how it presents a postcolonial critique of Western imperialism, emphasizing the complexities of cultural assimilation, identity, and resistance.
- Symbolism and Allegory in Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude: Explore the rich symbolism and allegorical elements in Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s masterpiece, One Hundred Years of Solitude, and analyze how these literary devices convey deeper meanings and themes, such as the cyclical nature of history and the human condition.
- Historical Memory in Toni Morrison’s Beloved: Delve into Toni Morrison’s novel, Beloved, and examine its portrayal of the historical trauma of slavery, emphasizing the significance of collective memory, remembrance, and the enduring impact of the past on individuals and communities.
Suggested Readings
- Black, Simon. Crack the Essay: Secrets of Argumentative Writing Revealed. Gramercy House Publishing, 2018.
- Kirszner, Laurie G., and Stephen R. Mandell. The Wadsworth Handbook. Cengage Learning, 2013.
- McCann, Thomas M. “Student Argumentative Writing Knowledge and Ability at Three Grade Levels.” Research in the Teaching of English (1989): 62-76.
- Mitchell, Candace. Writing and Power: A Critical Introduction to Composition Studies. Routledge, 2015.
- Smith, Michael W., and Jon-Philip Imbrenda. Developing Writers of Argument: Tools And Rules That Sharpen Student Reasoning. Corwin Press, 2017.