The document outlines the structure of an argumentative essay, including introducing the topic and thesis statement, providing evidence and explanations in body paragraphs to support the thesis, addressing counterarguments with evidence and rebuttals, and restating the key arguments and thesis in the conclusion. Effective structure is important for essays to be coherent and persuasive. Body paragraphs should each focus on a topic sentence, reason, cited evidence, and explanation of how the evidence supports the reason and argument.

1. Structure of
Argumentative Essay

2. • Structure of paragraphs are like building something. In
order for it to stand on its own, it needs each piece to
work together.
Why is structure important?

3. Hook
Introduction of Title of stories and authors
Background Info for each story (1-2 sentences for
each)
Thesis Statement
Intro Structure

4. Topic/Argument Sentence
Reason # 1
Specific cited Text
Evidence
Explanation/Extensio
n/Connection of
Evidence to Reason
and Argument
Reason # 2
Specific cited Text
Evidence
Explanation/Extensio
n/Connection of
Evidence to Reason
and Argument
Body Paragraph Structure

5. Counterargument (why someone would say the OTHER story is more effective)
Specific cited Text
Evidence of the
Counterargument
Explanation of
Text Evidence
Rebuttal (Your response, from your perspective, to the counterargument – i.e. your
counterargument to the counterargument)
Counterargument
paragraph Structure

6. Restate Arguments and explain purpose of essay (not in a repetitive manner)
Summarize your topic
Reword your thesis “So What?” statement
Conclusion Structure

7. More help with Conclusion