The Argumentative Essay

An argumentative essay is so called precisely because it expects the student to be argumentative. To present a point or points and to argue that they are true. An argumentative essay must present other sides of the argument as well but only to aid the argument being put forth by the student by refuting the opposing points. An argumentative essay can actually be a lot of fun to write. Especially if you are the type of person who loves debate and banter.

Viewed historically the argumentative essay goes back to the really impressive debaters like Plato who verbalized argumentative essays to the governing chamber on a regular basis. This was not always to the benefit of his well-being. Students less comfortable with debate will no doubt struggle more with the argumentative essay so the rest of this article is more for you than the Plato types.

Once you have selected a topic you feel strongly about, you should make a list of points for both sides of the argument and pick a side. One of your first objectives in your essay will be to present both sides of your issue with an assessment of each. Of course, you will conclude that your argument is correct.  Being persuasive is not about making your point and driving it through with overwhelming statistics and proclamations. A better approach to an argumentative essay, one that will be appreciated by the reader, is the presentation of all points of view, including your own. By making clear all of the arguments for and against a certain position, you will show that you have considered all of the possibilities before drawing a conclusion. This lends immediate credibility to your claims.

That said, your drawn conclusion should be presented assertively. An argumentative essay is a place for all the facts but it is not a place for the meek or uncertain. Also called an argumentative essay, an effective argumentative essay begins with an assertion and then goes into great depth to prove that assertion is valid. An argumentative essay should follow a clear and logical path from the claim to the conclusion.

A Good Argumentative essay Rubric

Harvard offers an excellent rubric for self-evaluating the merits of an argumentative essay. While it is extensive, the highlights are offered here. The more relevant points for determining whether an argument is good enough is to ask whether it meets the following criteria:

• The argument is clearly stated (a claim is made) including why it is controversial.
• The argumentative essay offers clear and accurate reasons in support of the claim.
• Reasons against the claim are explained and also why the claim is valid anyway.
• The argument has a compelling opening, an informative middle and a satisfying conclusion.
• It sounds like the author cares about the argument.
• Words used are striking but natural, varied and vivid.
• Sentences are clear, complete and of varying lengths.
• Correct grammar, spelling and punctuation are evident throughout.

If you can say yes to all of these you probably have a great argumentative essay.

At the end of the day, even Plato had to plan and structure his arguments. The key component of his effectiveness was his passion. Find an argument that will compel you and it will be easy to set aside the time to study and engage with the topic. Then it is just a matter of putting all that passion and conviction to paper and ta da, a brilliant argumentative essay!