The document outlines the 5 essential parts of an effective argument: 1) Introduction, 2) Background Information, 3) Confirmation, 4) Refutation, and 5) Conclusion. It explains that these parts do not necessarily equate to 5 paragraphs, and provides details on what should be included in each part, such as defining terms in the background information section and addressing counterclaims in the refutation section. The overall structure is intended to provide a logical flow to an argument beyond a standard 5 paragraph essay format.

1. Argumentative Structure
5 Parts NOT 5 Paragraphs

2. Part 1: Introduction

3. 2. Background Info
What needs to be defined?
What needs to be reviewed?
What needs to be clarified?

4. 3. Confirmation
What supports my argument?
This constitutes several
paragraphs with evidence and
warrants.

5. 4. Refutation
 What will skeptics say and how will I
refute these views?
 Thismay be woven into confirmation
paragraphs or as separate ones.

6. 5. Conclusion
 What are the benefits or implications of
accepting my argument?
 May be a call to action
 May be an effect

7. The Parts of an Argument
INTRODUCTION
(Hook, Map, Thesis)
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
(Define, Clarify, Review)
CONFIRMATION
(Paragraphing support with evidence and warrants)
REFUTATION
(Counterclaims and Rebuttals)
CONCLUSION
(Benefits, Implications, Call to Action)

8. Work Cited
Adapted from Salazar, Ray. "Stop Boring
Students (and Yourself) with Five-
Paragraph Essays." Michigan
Reading Association Annual
Conference. Grand Rapids, MI. 9
Mar. 2013. Breakout Session.