How to write a proper

argumentative essay

IRF 231 Week 3

Presented by

by Rodrique E. George
Matters deserving attention

1 Week number 3 2 E-Portfolio

This is week number 3. Have you started with your e-
Portfolio yet?

3 iKamva Check-in
Please remember, you need to check in on iKamva daily to
see whether there are any new posts.
Outcomes:

• At the end of this session you should:

• Understand the meaning of argumentation.

• Understand the meaning of a counter-argument.
• Comprehend the meaning of a refutation/rebuttal
• Be able to write an argumentative essay.
What is an argument?
1 Definition 2 Source
An argument is an exchange Oxford Dictionary (2023)
of diverging or opposing
views regarding a particular
topic and could occur
between two or more
individuals.
Argumentative essay
1 Essay Type 2 Objective
In this kind of essay, we
do not only give
information but also
present an argument with
the PROS (supporting
ideas) and CONS
(opposing ideas) of an
argumentative issue.
We should clearly take our
stand and write as if we are
trying to persuade an
opposing audience to adopt
new beliefs or behavior. The
primary objective is to
persuade people to change
beliefs that many of them do
not want to change.
Argumentative Essay
1 First step in answering the essay question

STEP 1: Analyze the question This may require you to

read the text given to you once or twice more.

2 Second step in answering the essay question

STEP 2: What are you asked to do? Which direction do you

wish to take the essay? RESEARCH the TOPIC.
PLAN your essay
Proper preparation is required to
pave the way...

Preparation
Proper preparation is required to pave the way...
Structure of your essay
PATTERN 1 PATTERN 2 PATTERN 3
• Introduction • Introduction • Introduction
PRO idea 1 PRO CON(s) + PRO idea 1 +
idea 2 PRO idea Refutation(s) Con(s) +
3 CON(s) + PRO idea 1 PRO Refutation
Refutation(s) idea 2 PRO idea PRO idea 2 +
Conclusion 3 Conclusion Con (s) +
Refutation
PRO idea 3
Conclusion
Step 3: Write your introduction

1 Introduction Components
Your introduction should include:
• An Attention Grabber
• Relevant Background Information
• Controlling Thesis Statement (CTS)
• Plan of Development (POD)
Just checking if you are
still with me?

Now is a good time to

inhale and exhale…
STEP 4: Begin with your CONTENT
(Body)
1 Identifying Your Strengths
Understanding your natural strengths is the first step in leadership
development. It's crucial to recognize where your skills lie and how
you can excel.

2 Setting Achievable Goals

Establishing clear and measurable goals is essential for effective
leadership development. SMART goals provide direction and
motivation.

3 Gathering Tools & Resources

Acquiring the right resources, such as books, courses, mentors, and
real-world experiences, is crucial for leadership development.
THE PARAGRAPH
1 What is a Paragraph? 2 Reasons for Beginning
A paragraph is a
collection of related
sentences dealing with a
single topic or
expressing the same idea.
a New Paragraph
Switching to a new idea,
indicating a change in
time or place,
emphasizing a contrast,
changing speakers in a
dialogue, giving readers
an opportunity to pause,
and breaking up a dense
text.
STEP 4: Begin with your CONTENT
(Body)

1 Descriptive Heading 2 Supporting Sentence

The heading captures the An appropriate supporting

essence of what the
paragraph is about.
sentence expands on the topic
sentence, followed by a
possible example and a
citation to support the
argument.
Ensure Proper In-Text Referencing

Proper In-Text Referencing Compelling Counter Argument

Explain the citation and write an Refer to opposing views and how
appropriate concluding sentence others perceive the argument.
using varying concluding signals.
What Exactly is a Counter-Argument?

1 Definition of a Counter- 2 Remember!

Argument Be creative with the heading
A counter-argument is the and avoid using the word
opposing view to an "counter-argument" directly.
argument, highlighting why
others feel the presented idea
is flawed.
Counter Argument

Opponents' Claims Proponents' Disagreement

Assertions Some people may
Opponents of this Proponents of this disagree with this
idea claim that... argument assert idea...
that...
Remember!!!
Be Creative

Avoid using the word "counter-argument" directly.

Examples: Opposing views regarding the argument,
Reservations held by the opposing side, Contrasting views
pertaining to the argument, Alternative perspectives to the
argument presented.
What Should You Include in a
Counter-Argument?

1 Opposing Claims
Opponents of this idea claim/maintain that...

2 Proponents' Assertions
Proponents of this argument assert that...
 What is a
refutation/rebuttal?
A refutation (rebuttal) is where you as the writer of the
essay or one who initiated the argument are given an
opportunity to argue against the counter-argument.
In other words, you are showing why you feel the point(s)
made in the counter-argument are invalid or flawed. So you
basically take over the reins again and make a stronger
argument than before.
STEP 6: Write a well reasoned refutation

(_SKIP a line)_ This now means that you, the

author, will now be arguing against what is
pointed out in the counter argument. FOCUS on
at least one or two factors mentioned in the
counter argument. Possible solutions might even
be offered here.
Reaching the turning point:
However, But Nevertheless Nonetheless On the
other hand,
 How should you write the refutation or
rebuttal?

Refer to Examples
Look at the example on iKamva under week 3 to understand how to write the refutation/rebuttal.
Strategies for refuting
Compromise but Prove

When refuting the opposing idea, consider using strategies like

acknowledging their point of view to a certain extent, but proving that
their argument is not powerful enough. You can also completely
disagree after presenting evidence that invalidates their stance.
Step 7: Writing the Conclusion

1 Components of a Conclusion
The conclusion should include a transitional device or statement signaling the
end of the argument, a brief reference to the thesis statement, an indication of
how your viewpoint has merit, a brief reference to the counter argument, and a
call for action or further investigation of the issues raised in the essay.
 Example of conclusion
Key Factors for Effective Management

 In brief, there are several factors that enable a manager to lead

an organization well. This assignment has argued that human
skills constitute the most important variable in good
management. Without human skills a manager cannot work with
people. Thus, managers must improve their human skills if they
are going to avoid conflict in their teams and create a viable
working environment. Although human skills are acquired
through experience and exposure to the workplace, managers
should also undergo training and development to ensure that they
have the necessary human skills to enhance their ability to lead
others well.
 There should be:
 A transitional device or statement signaling to the reader that you are now
bringing your argument to a conclusion;
 A brief reference to the thesis statement;
 Some indication on how you have demonstrated that your viewpoint has
merit; and
 A brief reference to the counter argument
 A call for action, or for further investigation of the issues raised in your
essay.