This document provides an introductory guide to argument writing for middle school students. It defines argument writing as taking a clear position on an issue with two sides that can be supported with facts or citations. Effective arguments have a claim, acknowledge counterclaims, and use evidence to convince the reader that the claim is true. There are different types of claims, such as claims of cause and effect, definition, values, or solutions, which can be made in an argument. Strong arguments also address counterclaims, provide textual support for the claim, and have a clear conclusion.

1. Argument Writing
An Introductory Guide for Middle School Students

2. An argument in writing
• IS DIFFERENT THAN
ARGUING WITH A
PARENT OR FRIEND

3. Characteristics of Argument
Writing
• Convinces reader claim is true
• Uses evidence—facts and data
• Acknowledges counterclaims—
the other side of the argument

4. An Effective Claim
• Takes a clear position
• Has two sides
• Is narrow enough to be supported
within essay
• Can be supported by facts or citations
from a text

5. Types of Claims
• Cause and effect—a person, thing, or
event caused something else to happen
• Example: Rikki Tikki Tavi’s victory
over the snakes was the result of his
natural abilities as a mongoose, rather
than his desire to protect the people in
the cottage.

6. Types of Claims
• Claims of definition or fact—argue
what a definition is or if something is
really a fact
• Example: In the story, “Gift of the
Magi,” by O. Henry, the two characters
provide an outstanding illustration of
what foolish is.

7. Types of Claims
• Claims about values—argue the worth
of something and if it is valued.
• While Perrault’s “Cinderella” is an
interesting story, it is a second-rate
story when compared to Grimm’s
Cinderella version.

8. Types of Claims
• Claims about solutions or policies—
argue for or against certain approaches
to problems.
• Example: The Capulets have their
daughter’s well-being in mind when
they follow tradition and make
arrangements for her to marry Paris.

9. Addressing the
counterclaim…
• Refutes or proves wrong, another
point
• Recognizes the other side’s points
• Lends credence to the writer’s
claims

10. Components of Effective
Argument Writing?
• Clear and forceful claim
• Well-constructed argument
• Strong textual support with lucid
explanations of text support
• Addresses counterclaims
• Strong conclusion