Writing the Persuasive Essay What is a persuasiveargum.docxambersalomon88660
Writing the Persuasive Essay
What is a persuasive/argument essay?
In persuasive writing, a writer takes a position FOR or AGAINST an issue and writes to
convince the reader to believe or do something
Persuasive writing, also known as the argument essay, utilizes logic and reason to show that
one idea is more legitimate than another idea. It attempts to persuade a reader to adopt a
certain point of view or to take a particular action. The argument must always use sound
reasoning and solid evidence by stating facts, giving logical reasons, using examples, and
quoting experts.
When planning a persuasive essay, follow these steps
1. Choose your position. Which side of the issue or problem are you going to write about,
and what solution will you offer? Know the purpose of your essay.
2. Analyze your audience. Decide if your audience agrees with you, is neutral, or
disagrees with your position.
3. Research your topic. A persuasive essay must provide specific and convincing
evidence. Often it is necessary to go beyond your own knowledge and experience. You
might need to go to the library or interview people who are experts on your topic.
4. Structure your essay. Figure out what evidence you will include and in what order you
will present the evidence. Remember to consider your purpose, your audience, and
your topic.
The following criteria are essential to produce an effective argument
• Be well informed about your topic. To add to your knowledge of a topic, read
thoroughly about it, using legitimate sources. Take notes.
• Test your thesis. Your thesis, i.e., argument, must have two sides. It must be
debatable. If you can write down a thesis statement directly opposing your own, you
will ensure that your own argument is debatable.
• Disprove the opposing argument. Understand the opposite viewpoint of your position
and then counter it by providing contrasting evidence or by finding mistakes and
inconsistencies in the logic of the opposing argument.
• Support your position with evidence. Remember that your evidence must appeal to
reason.
Parts of the Persuasive Essay
1. The Introduction
The introduction has a "hook or grabber" to catch the reader's attention. Some
"grabbers" include:
1. Opening with an unusual detail: (Manitoba, because of its cold climate, is not thought of as
a great place to be a reptile. Actually, it has the largest seasonal congregation of garter
snakes in the world!)
2. Opening with a strong statement: (Cigarettes are the number one cause of lighter sales in
Canada!)
3. Opening with a Quotation: (Elbert Hubbard once said , "Truth is stronger than fiction.")
4. Opening with an Anecdote: An anecdote can provide an amusing and attention-getting
opening if it is short and to the point.
5. Opening with a Statistic or Fact: Sometimes a statistic or fact will add emphasis or interest
to your topic. It may be wise to include the item's .
Writing a Persuasive Paragraph or Essay Choose a deba.docxbillylewis37150
Writing a Persuasive Paragraph or Essay
Choose a debatable topic
A debatable topic has two valid arguments. Your topic should be one about which you know something. The more
evidence you can provide, the more likely you are to sway your audience. You must plan on doing research and your
essay must be documented properly.
Formulate an argumentative thesis
Some topics have been discussed so often they are tired, uninteresting and not worthy of discussion. Choose a
current topic. Because the purpose of a persuasive essay is to convince readers to accept your position, your thesis
must take a stand. One way to make sure that your thesis actually does take a stand is to formulate an antithesis, a
statement that takes an arguable position opposite from yours.
Define your terms
You must make clear the terms you use in your argument. Be careful to use precise language in your thesis, avoiding
vague words such as wrong, bad, right and immoral, which convey different meaning to different people.
Accommodate your audience
Who are your readers? Are they unbiased observers or people deeply concerned about the issue you are discussing?
Are they skeptical, hostile, emotional or unconcerned? How will you convince each type?
Consider opposing arguments
You must know how to refute opposing arguments. Do this by showing that opposing views are untrue, unfair,
illogical, unimportant or irrelevant. Discuss the limitations of the opposing view. When you acknowledge an
opposing view, do not distort it or present it as ridiculously weak. This tactic, called creating a straw man, could
seriously undermine your credibility.
Gather evidence
Build your argument on assertions, claims you make about a debatable topic backed by evidence which is
supporting information in the form of examples, statistics or expert opinion. Document your evidence carefully.
Establish your credibility
Establish your credibility by finding common ground, demonstrating knowledge, and maintaining a reasonable tone.
Demonstrate knowledge about your subject by personal experiences and research. Make certain that you document
source material very carefully. For your instructor, an undocumented quotation or even an incorrect date can call an
entire paper into question. Use reasonable language, not emotionally charged language that will turn away the
reader.
Present your points fairly
Avoid distorting evidence and quoting out of context. In other words, be honest.
Don’t Apologize
Never suggest that you don't know what you're talking about or that you're not enough of an expert in this subject
that your opinion would matter. Avoid phrases like, "In my humble opinion....I'm not sure, but....." Make a BOLD
statement and proceed with confidence!
Don’t Refer to Yourself
Do not announce what you are about to do in the essay. "In this paper, I will.......... The purpose of this essay is
to......." JUST DO IT! Do not.
What is an Essay:
An essay is a piece of writing that is written to convince someone of something or to simply inform the reader about a particular topic. In order for the reader to be convinced or adequately informed, the essay must include several important components to make it flow in a logical way.
The main parts (or sections) to an essay;
Introduction
Body
conclusion
Choose the Type of Essay:
The first step to writing an essay is to define what type of essay you are writing. There are four main categories into which essays can be grouped:
Narrative Essay: Tell a story or impart information about your subject in a straightforward, orderly manner, like in a story.
Persuasive Essay: Convince the reader about some point of view.
Expository Essay: Explain to the reader how to do a given process. You could, for example, write an expository essay with step-by-step instructions on how to make a peanut butter sandwich.
Descriptive Essay: Focus on the details of what is going on.
Choose the Type of Essay:
The first step to writing an essay is to define what type of essay you are writing. There are four main categories into which essays can be grouped:
Narrative Essay: Tell a story or impart information about your subject in a straightforward, orderly manner, like in a story.
Persuasive Essay: Convince the reader about some point of view.
Expository Essay: Explain to the reader how to do a given process. You could, for example, write an expository essay with step-by-step instructions on how to make a peanut butter sandwich.
Descriptive Essay: Focus on the details of what is going on.
Writing the Persuasive Essay What is a persuasiveargum.docxambersalomon88660
Writing the Persuasive Essay
What is a persuasive/argument essay?
In persuasive writing, a writer takes a position FOR or AGAINST an issue and writes to
convince the reader to believe or do something
Persuasive writing, also known as the argument essay, utilizes logic and reason to show that
one idea is more legitimate than another idea. It attempts to persuade a reader to adopt a
certain point of view or to take a particular action. The argument must always use sound
reasoning and solid evidence by stating facts, giving logical reasons, using examples, and
quoting experts.
When planning a persuasive essay, follow these steps
1. Choose your position. Which side of the issue or problem are you going to write about,
and what solution will you offer? Know the purpose of your essay.
2. Analyze your audience. Decide if your audience agrees with you, is neutral, or
disagrees with your position.
3. Research your topic. A persuasive essay must provide specific and convincing
evidence. Often it is necessary to go beyond your own knowledge and experience. You
might need to go to the library or interview people who are experts on your topic.
4. Structure your essay. Figure out what evidence you will include and in what order you
will present the evidence. Remember to consider your purpose, your audience, and
your topic.
The following criteria are essential to produce an effective argument
• Be well informed about your topic. To add to your knowledge of a topic, read
thoroughly about it, using legitimate sources. Take notes.
• Test your thesis. Your thesis, i.e., argument, must have two sides. It must be
debatable. If you can write down a thesis statement directly opposing your own, you
will ensure that your own argument is debatable.
• Disprove the opposing argument. Understand the opposite viewpoint of your position
and then counter it by providing contrasting evidence or by finding mistakes and
inconsistencies in the logic of the opposing argument.
• Support your position with evidence. Remember that your evidence must appeal to
reason.
Parts of the Persuasive Essay
1. The Introduction
The introduction has a "hook or grabber" to catch the reader's attention. Some
"grabbers" include:
1. Opening with an unusual detail: (Manitoba, because of its cold climate, is not thought of as
a great place to be a reptile. Actually, it has the largest seasonal congregation of garter
snakes in the world!)
2. Opening with a strong statement: (Cigarettes are the number one cause of lighter sales in
Canada!)
3. Opening with a Quotation: (Elbert Hubbard once said , "Truth is stronger than fiction.")
4. Opening with an Anecdote: An anecdote can provide an amusing and attention-getting
opening if it is short and to the point.
5. Opening with a Statistic or Fact: Sometimes a statistic or fact will add emphasis or interest
to your topic. It may be wise to include the item's .
Writing a Persuasive Paragraph or Essay Choose a deba.docxbillylewis37150
Writing a Persuasive Paragraph or Essay
Choose a debatable topic
A debatable topic has two valid arguments. Your topic should be one about which you know something. The more
evidence you can provide, the more likely you are to sway your audience. You must plan on doing research and your
essay must be documented properly.
Formulate an argumentative thesis
Some topics have been discussed so often they are tired, uninteresting and not worthy of discussion. Choose a
current topic. Because the purpose of a persuasive essay is to convince readers to accept your position, your thesis
must take a stand. One way to make sure that your thesis actually does take a stand is to formulate an antithesis, a
statement that takes an arguable position opposite from yours.
Define your terms
You must make clear the terms you use in your argument. Be careful to use precise language in your thesis, avoiding
vague words such as wrong, bad, right and immoral, which convey different meaning to different people.
Accommodate your audience
Who are your readers? Are they unbiased observers or people deeply concerned about the issue you are discussing?
Are they skeptical, hostile, emotional or unconcerned? How will you convince each type?
Consider opposing arguments
You must know how to refute opposing arguments. Do this by showing that opposing views are untrue, unfair,
illogical, unimportant or irrelevant. Discuss the limitations of the opposing view. When you acknowledge an
opposing view, do not distort it or present it as ridiculously weak. This tactic, called creating a straw man, could
seriously undermine your credibility.
Gather evidence
Build your argument on assertions, claims you make about a debatable topic backed by evidence which is
supporting information in the form of examples, statistics or expert opinion. Document your evidence carefully.
Establish your credibility
Establish your credibility by finding common ground, demonstrating knowledge, and maintaining a reasonable tone.
Demonstrate knowledge about your subject by personal experiences and research. Make certain that you document
source material very carefully. For your instructor, an undocumented quotation or even an incorrect date can call an
entire paper into question. Use reasonable language, not emotionally charged language that will turn away the
reader.
Present your points fairly
Avoid distorting evidence and quoting out of context. In other words, be honest.
Don’t Apologize
Never suggest that you don't know what you're talking about or that you're not enough of an expert in this subject
that your opinion would matter. Avoid phrases like, "In my humble opinion....I'm not sure, but....." Make a BOLD
statement and proceed with confidence!
Don’t Refer to Yourself
Do not announce what you are about to do in the essay. "In this paper, I will.......... The purpose of this essay is
to......." JUST DO IT! Do not.
What is an Essay:
An essay is a piece of writing that is written to convince someone of something or to simply inform the reader about a particular topic. In order for the reader to be convinced or adequately informed, the essay must include several important components to make it flow in a logical way.
The main parts (or sections) to an essay;
Introduction
Body
conclusion
Choose the Type of Essay:
The first step to writing an essay is to define what type of essay you are writing. There are four main categories into which essays can be grouped:
Narrative Essay: Tell a story or impart information about your subject in a straightforward, orderly manner, like in a story.
Persuasive Essay: Convince the reader about some point of view.
Expository Essay: Explain to the reader how to do a given process. You could, for example, write an expository essay with step-by-step instructions on how to make a peanut butter sandwich.
Descriptive Essay: Focus on the details of what is going on.
Choose the Type of Essay:
The first step to writing an essay is to define what type of essay you are writing. There are four main categories into which essays can be grouped:
Narrative Essay: Tell a story or impart information about your subject in a straightforward, orderly manner, like in a story.
Persuasive Essay: Convince the reader about some point of view.
Expository Essay: Explain to the reader how to do a given process. You could, for example, write an expository essay with step-by-step instructions on how to make a peanut butter sandwich.
Descriptive Essay: Focus on the details of what is going on.
An essay that presents the arguments supporting or against an issue is an argumentative essay. Argumentative essays are used to persuade the thinking of someone the way you do. It is generally done for extensive research for already published materials. These essays must have a clear thesis and follow sound reasoning. For more details visit https://www.myassignmentservices.com/usa/argumentative-essay-conclusion.html
Teaching argumentative writing can help develop students' critical thinking skills through inferences, arguments, facts and critical analysis. This powerpoint presentation provides: a definition for argumentative writing; examples of everyday arguments; elements of argumentative writing; ideas about how to organise an argumentative essay; practice prompts and much more!
Argument paperEnglish 1 Spring 2014 Argument Assignment Paper.docxrossskuddershamus
Argument paper/English 1 Spring 2014 Argument Assignment Paper.doc
PAGE
English 1: Argumentative Essay Assignment
The Assignment: Write a six-to-ten page argument paper that addresses a current issue that will address our theme of the impact of technology on communication on ourselves, on our world and on what it means to be human (Barrios, 583). The topic and the issue for this paper is the same as your exploratory paper assignment. The purpose of this paper is to present your position on the issue and then argue why by presenting your own reasons and evidence to support your thesis statement.
Locating Sources for Research. The purpose of the exploratory paper was to explore different writers and their position, their perspective, and the types of evidence they used in order to form your own position and perspective. You have three sources that you may use in your paper. For this paper, you must include a variety of sources; they cannot all come from Web sites. Search SMC’s library online catalog, search for a book, search online databases, find newspaper articles, use the search engine Google scholar at www.google.com, or www.yahoo.com . In addition, observations or experience from your personal life are not allowable. Refer to the following handouts: “Research Guide for Papers,” “Sources Acceptable for Academic Papers.” Both of these handouts are on eCompanion. If you include an article from a Website, there must be a date and a sponsor/publisher. If this is not available you cannot use this source.
Thesis Statement and Claim: Does your thesis clearly include a claim? Is it arguable? Does it take a perspective on an issue? Is it narrow and specific enough for the length of this assignment? Is it focused on one subject? Is it a claim of policy where you argue that certainpolicies should be changed? Is it a claim of value where you argue that some action, belief, or policy is morally wrong, good, or bad? Once your claim is clear, you must develop reasons that match and correspond to the type of claim being made.
Audience/Point of View: An effective argument is tailored to its audience. The reasons and the types of evidence you offer, the needs and values to which you appeal, terms defined, all depend on your audience and the type of claim. Ask: What does your audience know or not know about your topic? The audience is your instructor and classmates. Never assume that the audience is familiar with your topic or terms. You may need to include definitions and relevant details to help the audience understand your position in the first body paragraph. For this argument essay, you will use only the third-person point of view. No, “I” “We” or “You.”
Content/Body Paragraphs. For the length of this assignment, you should have at least three-to-four distinct and relevant reasons to support your thesis. Follow the guidelines for writing the argument paper when developing your reasons. Use the “because” clause approach.
Final Research Paper Assignment Detailed GuidelinesYou areAlysonDuongtw
Final Research Paper Assignment: Detailed Guidelines
:
You are asked to write a paper of 1700-words (minimum word count—any paper more than 150 words short of this minimum will not be accepted as a complete paper) to 2000-words (maximum word count—you may exceed this without penalty only if it essential to attaining the purpose of your paper). Your paper must cite the work of at least four philosophers studied during the course; there is no upper limit on the number of sources you may use. You have the option of writing a position paper or a comparison essay, depending on whether your plan is to argue in favor of an original position regarding the work and thought of at least four philosophers covered in the course or to comparatively evaluate the work of four or more philosophers. The topics below may be approached using either strategy; you may find that some will better lend themselves to a position paper (also known as an argumentative essay) and some will work better as a comparison essay. Choose the topic that most interests you and the strategy that works best for you.
Topic Areas
1) Plato, Hume, Kant, and Russell: What is human knowledge?
2) Kant, Mill, Aristotle, and Kierkegaard: What is the ethical life?
3) Sartre, James, Kierkegaard, and Nietzsche: What is an authentic, autonomous individual?
4) Descartes, Hume, Searle, and James: What is consciousness?
5) Plato, Kant, Kierkegaard, and Nietzsche: What is truth?
6) Plato, Descartes, Hume, and Nietzsche: What is the soul or self (conceived as an entity that is purely mental, spiritual, or nonphysical)?
7) Sartre, James, Kierkegaard, and Nietzsche: What is the role and value of religious faith?
8) Descartes, Kant, Sartre, and Nietzsche: What is free will and why does it matter?
9) Socrates/Plato, Russell, Sartre, and Nietzsche: What is the role and value of philosophy?
This assignment is broken into two parts:
Part I includes the following elements
:
- Title of the paper (please do not create a separate title page). Special note: DO NOT title your paper, "Final Paper." Your title is important; it should give the reader an immediate snapshot of what the paper will say and attempt to draw the reader in.
- Introductory paragraph (including your thesis). This is a very important part of the paper--it should not be too short or too long (but probably at least five sentences). Begin by introducing the general topic and providing the reader with some rationale for why this topic, and what you will say about it, is worth thinking and reading about. Good writers usually begin with a "hook" in the first line to draw the reader in. You might pose an interesting or intriguing question, bring in an apposite quote, or make a controversial or surprising claim—even one that seems to go against your thesis. You will soon bring the reader around to what your position is when you state your thesis, which is usually very near the end of the first paragraph. The introductory p ...
quantitative_vs_qualitative_2_pptx. knowing the differences and its similarit...venuspatatag4
knowing about the different types of research will help the student understand the research process.
qualitative research does not need numerical data to prove its claim but quantitative research needs numbers or statistical treatment to prove its validity.
An essay that presents the arguments supporting or against an issue is an argumentative essay. Argumentative essays are used to persuade the thinking of someone the way you do. It is generally done for extensive research for already published materials. These essays must have a clear thesis and follow sound reasoning. For more details visit https://www.myassignmentservices.com/usa/argumentative-essay-conclusion.html
Teaching argumentative writing can help develop students' critical thinking skills through inferences, arguments, facts and critical analysis. This powerpoint presentation provides: a definition for argumentative writing; examples of everyday arguments; elements of argumentative writing; ideas about how to organise an argumentative essay; practice prompts and much more!
Argument paperEnglish 1 Spring 2014 Argument Assignment Paper.docxrossskuddershamus
Argument paper/English 1 Spring 2014 Argument Assignment Paper.doc
PAGE
English 1: Argumentative Essay Assignment
The Assignment: Write a six-to-ten page argument paper that addresses a current issue that will address our theme of the impact of technology on communication on ourselves, on our world and on what it means to be human (Barrios, 583). The topic and the issue for this paper is the same as your exploratory paper assignment. The purpose of this paper is to present your position on the issue and then argue why by presenting your own reasons and evidence to support your thesis statement.
Locating Sources for Research. The purpose of the exploratory paper was to explore different writers and their position, their perspective, and the types of evidence they used in order to form your own position and perspective. You have three sources that you may use in your paper. For this paper, you must include a variety of sources; they cannot all come from Web sites. Search SMC’s library online catalog, search for a book, search online databases, find newspaper articles, use the search engine Google scholar at www.google.com, or www.yahoo.com . In addition, observations or experience from your personal life are not allowable. Refer to the following handouts: “Research Guide for Papers,” “Sources Acceptable for Academic Papers.” Both of these handouts are on eCompanion. If you include an article from a Website, there must be a date and a sponsor/publisher. If this is not available you cannot use this source.
Thesis Statement and Claim: Does your thesis clearly include a claim? Is it arguable? Does it take a perspective on an issue? Is it narrow and specific enough for the length of this assignment? Is it focused on one subject? Is it a claim of policy where you argue that certainpolicies should be changed? Is it a claim of value where you argue that some action, belief, or policy is morally wrong, good, or bad? Once your claim is clear, you must develop reasons that match and correspond to the type of claim being made.
Audience/Point of View: An effective argument is tailored to its audience. The reasons and the types of evidence you offer, the needs and values to which you appeal, terms defined, all depend on your audience and the type of claim. Ask: What does your audience know or not know about your topic? The audience is your instructor and classmates. Never assume that the audience is familiar with your topic or terms. You may need to include definitions and relevant details to help the audience understand your position in the first body paragraph. For this argument essay, you will use only the third-person point of view. No, “I” “We” or “You.”
Content/Body Paragraphs. For the length of this assignment, you should have at least three-to-four distinct and relevant reasons to support your thesis. Follow the guidelines for writing the argument paper when developing your reasons. Use the “because” clause approach.
Final Research Paper Assignment Detailed GuidelinesYou areAlysonDuongtw
Final Research Paper Assignment: Detailed Guidelines
:
You are asked to write a paper of 1700-words (minimum word count—any paper more than 150 words short of this minimum will not be accepted as a complete paper) to 2000-words (maximum word count—you may exceed this without penalty only if it essential to attaining the purpose of your paper). Your paper must cite the work of at least four philosophers studied during the course; there is no upper limit on the number of sources you may use. You have the option of writing a position paper or a comparison essay, depending on whether your plan is to argue in favor of an original position regarding the work and thought of at least four philosophers covered in the course or to comparatively evaluate the work of four or more philosophers. The topics below may be approached using either strategy; you may find that some will better lend themselves to a position paper (also known as an argumentative essay) and some will work better as a comparison essay. Choose the topic that most interests you and the strategy that works best for you.
Topic Areas
1) Plato, Hume, Kant, and Russell: What is human knowledge?
2) Kant, Mill, Aristotle, and Kierkegaard: What is the ethical life?
3) Sartre, James, Kierkegaard, and Nietzsche: What is an authentic, autonomous individual?
4) Descartes, Hume, Searle, and James: What is consciousness?
5) Plato, Kant, Kierkegaard, and Nietzsche: What is truth?
6) Plato, Descartes, Hume, and Nietzsche: What is the soul or self (conceived as an entity that is purely mental, spiritual, or nonphysical)?
7) Sartre, James, Kierkegaard, and Nietzsche: What is the role and value of religious faith?
8) Descartes, Kant, Sartre, and Nietzsche: What is free will and why does it matter?
9) Socrates/Plato, Russell, Sartre, and Nietzsche: What is the role and value of philosophy?
This assignment is broken into two parts:
Part I includes the following elements
:
- Title of the paper (please do not create a separate title page). Special note: DO NOT title your paper, "Final Paper." Your title is important; it should give the reader an immediate snapshot of what the paper will say and attempt to draw the reader in.
- Introductory paragraph (including your thesis). This is a very important part of the paper--it should not be too short or too long (but probably at least five sentences). Begin by introducing the general topic and providing the reader with some rationale for why this topic, and what you will say about it, is worth thinking and reading about. Good writers usually begin with a "hook" in the first line to draw the reader in. You might pose an interesting or intriguing question, bring in an apposite quote, or make a controversial or surprising claim—even one that seems to go against your thesis. You will soon bring the reader around to what your position is when you state your thesis, which is usually very near the end of the first paragraph. The introductory p ...
quantitative_vs_qualitative_2_pptx. knowing the differences and its similarit...venuspatatag4
knowing about the different types of research will help the student understand the research process.
qualitative research does not need numerical data to prove its claim but quantitative research needs numbers or statistical treatment to prove its validity.
Operation “Blue Star” is the only event in the history of Independent India where the state went into war with its own people. Even after about 40 years it is not clear if it was culmination of states anger over people of the region, a political game of power or start of dictatorial chapter in the democratic setup.
The people of Punjab felt alienated from main stream due to denial of their just demands during a long democratic struggle since independence. As it happen all over the word, it led to militant struggle with great loss of lives of military, police and civilian personnel. Killing of Indira Gandhi and massacre of innocent Sikhs in Delhi and other India cities was also associated with this movement.
The Roman Empire A Historical Colossus.pdfkaushalkr1407
The Roman Empire, a vast and enduring power, stands as one of history's most remarkable civilizations, leaving an indelible imprint on the world. It emerged from the Roman Republic, transitioning into an imperial powerhouse under the leadership of Augustus Caesar in 27 BCE. This transformation marked the beginning of an era defined by unprecedented territorial expansion, architectural marvels, and profound cultural influence.
The empire's roots lie in the city of Rome, founded, according to legend, by Romulus in 753 BCE. Over centuries, Rome evolved from a small settlement to a formidable republic, characterized by a complex political system with elected officials and checks on power. However, internal strife, class conflicts, and military ambitions paved the way for the end of the Republic. Julius Caesar’s dictatorship and subsequent assassination in 44 BCE created a power vacuum, leading to a civil war. Octavian, later Augustus, emerged victorious, heralding the Roman Empire’s birth.
Under Augustus, the empire experienced the Pax Romana, a 200-year period of relative peace and stability. Augustus reformed the military, established efficient administrative systems, and initiated grand construction projects. The empire's borders expanded, encompassing territories from Britain to Egypt and from Spain to the Euphrates. Roman legions, renowned for their discipline and engineering prowess, secured and maintained these vast territories, building roads, fortifications, and cities that facilitated control and integration.
The Roman Empire’s society was hierarchical, with a rigid class system. At the top were the patricians, wealthy elites who held significant political power. Below them were the plebeians, free citizens with limited political influence, and the vast numbers of slaves who formed the backbone of the economy. The family unit was central, governed by the paterfamilias, the male head who held absolute authority.
Culturally, the Romans were eclectic, absorbing and adapting elements from the civilizations they encountered, particularly the Greeks. Roman art, literature, and philosophy reflected this synthesis, creating a rich cultural tapestry. Latin, the Roman language, became the lingua franca of the Western world, influencing numerous modern languages.
Roman architecture and engineering achievements were monumental. They perfected the arch, vault, and dome, constructing enduring structures like the Colosseum, Pantheon, and aqueducts. These engineering marvels not only showcased Roman ingenuity but also served practical purposes, from public entertainment to water supply.
1. Bell Work
Please take out a sheet of
paper. Then, make a list of
everything you already know
about argumentative writing.
2. In argumentative writing, a writer
takes a stand or forms an opinion and
writes to convince the reader to
believe this point of view.
3. It has an introduction, a body where
the claim is developed and the
counterclaims are disproven, and a
conclusion.
A counterclaim is simply the opinion that is
opposite of yours.
Argumentative writing
follows the usual 5-paragraph format.
4. Writing Your Introduction
The introduction has a “hook” to catch
the reader’s attention. Some “hooks”
include opening with:
◦ an unusual detail
◦ a strong statement
◦ a quotation
◦ a question (it MUST be thought
provoking!)
◦ an exaggeration or outrageous statement
◦ a shocking statistic
◦ figurative language
5. Introduction – Thesis
The introduction should also include your
thesis. The thesis should be the LAST
sentence in your introduction.
There are two objectives of a thesis
statement:
1. It tells the reader the specific topic of
your essay.
2. It explains to the reader what your
position is.
6. The Body
The writer then provides facts and
evidence to support the opinion offered
in the thesis statement in the
introduction.
The three body paragraphs each explain
a different reason that supports your
opinion or thesis. They also explain
why those with opposing viewpoints
are wrong.
Each paragraph is based on solid
reasoning to support your thesis
7. The Body
Since almost all issues have sound
arguments on both sides of the
question, a good persuasive writer
must anticipate counterclaims and
provide counter-arguments along with
the main points in the essay.
8. Where do I put the counterclaims
and their opposition?
They should go in your third body
paragraph!
Begin by making a concession. For
example:
- It’s true that some people think…
- While some people may believe…
End the paragraph by telling why the
opposing viewpoint is not as strong as
yours.
9. The Conclusion
Argumentative essays end by
summarizing the most important
details of the argument and stating
once again what the reader is to
believe or do.
10. General guidelines when writing an
argumentative essay:
1. Have a firm opinion that you want your
reader to accept.
2. Be sure your intro includes a hook,
necessary and appropriate background
information, and a thesis.
3. Offer valid evidence to support your
opinion, show the counterclaim, and
refute it.
4. Conclude with a restatement of what you
want the reader to do or believe.