Argumentative Essay

INTRODUCTION
Paragraph 1 -general statement explains the main topic
-thesis statement  introduces the main topic of the essay

BODY
Paragraph 2 MAIN IDEA 1: (for)
topic sentence – clearly introduces the topic/expresses the
main point of the paragraph
argument 1 + support (facts, reasons, examples)
argument 2 + support (facts, reasons, examples)

MAIN IDEA 2: (against)

topic sentence - clearly introduces the topic/expresses the
Paragraph 3 main point of the paragraph
argument 1 + support (facts, reasons, examples)
argument 2 + support (facts, reasons, examples)

CONCLUSION
Paragraph 4 -general conclusion (a restatement of the main ideas or a summary of
the arguments)
-a final/personal opinion
 Argumentative essay
Argumentative essay (for and against essay) is a formal piece of writing in which a topic is considered
from opposing points of view

200-250 words

both sides should be presented in a fair way and discussed objectively and in equal detail

 formal English

do not use short forms/contractions (can't, doesn't, you're…)

no idioms, slangs, colloquial language

indent each paragraph (uvući prvu rečenicu svakog paragrafa)

the same number of arguments in each paragraph

state your opinion ONLY in conclusion

do not repeat any expression twice; do not use the same linking word twice

thesis statement=paraphrasing the title; examples:

 While/Although some people consider online shopping better, others disagree.

 Is online shopping more convenient than shopping in stores, or is traditional shoping in store more
practical?
 Are 18-year-olds too young to vote, or are they mature enough to participate in political
developments?
 Some people believe that 18-year-olds are too young to vote, while others disagree.
 So, is a university degree the only path to success, or can you have a successful career without it?
 Many people consider that having a university degree is crucial for a successful career, while others
disagree.

USEFUL LANGUAGE:

INTRODUCTION: nowdays, many/certain/some people think/argue/consider/believe…

TO LIST POINTS: on the one hand, firstly, first of all, to begin/start with, secondly, lastly, finally

TO ADD MORE POINTS TO THE SAME TOPIC: additionally, furthermore, moreover, also, in addition to this, as
well as, not only…but also

TO LIST ADVANTAGES: one/another/further/additional advantage is, the first/the main advantage/positive

side/aspect …

TO LIST DISADVANTAGES: one/another/further/additional disadvantage is, the first/the main disadvantage/

negative side/aspect…

TO MAKE CONTRASTING POINTS: on the other hand, however, nevertheless, although, despite..

TO EXPRESS EFFECT: therefore, thus, as a result/consequence, consequently, for this reason..

CONCLUSION: in conclusion, on balance, all things considered, taking everything into account, to conclude, to
sum up,

OPINION: it is my belief/ opinion that, I believe/think, in my opinion,