Summary of "Opinion Essay or Persuasive Essay"

This video explains how to write an Opinion Essay, also known as an argumentative or Persuasive Essay, which requires the writer to take a clear position on a controversial topic and persuade the reader to accept or recognize the validity of that opinion.

Main Ideas and Concepts

Purpose of an Opinion Essay To persuade the reader to agree with or at least acknowledge the validity of the writer’s opinion on a controversial topic.
Key Tips Before Writing
1. Take a Clear Position: Avoid neutrality; clearly state your opinion.
2. Be Clear and Detailed: Your reasons and supporting details must be explicit; the reader should not have to infer connections.
3. Consider Your Audience: Understand who you are persuading, especially those who might disagree, to strengthen your argument.
Basic Structure of the Opinion Essay
1. Introduction
  - Start with a hook to engage the reader.
  - Provide background information to explain the topic’s importance or controversy.
  - End with a Thesis Statement that clearly states your opinion.
2. Body Paragraph(s)
  - Present reasons supporting your opinion (ideally at least three).
  - Include details to explain and strengthen each reason.
  - Introduce the Counterargument (the opposing viewpoint).
  - Respond to the Counterargument by either:
    - Refuting it (disagreeing and explaining why it is wrong).
    - Conceding it (acknowledging it but explaining why your opinion remains stronger).
3. Conclusion
  - Restate the thesis in different words.
  - Summarize the main supporting points.
  - End with a strong closing statement to leave a lasting impression on the reader.

Example Used in the Video

Thesis: Professional Athletes who are caught taking Performance-Enhancing Drugs should be banned from the sport for life.
Reason: A strict lifetime ban could deter athletes from using drugs.
Counterargument: Such a punishment might be too harsh, as it takes away an athlete’s lifelong dream.
Response: The athletes using drugs are the ones actually robbing others of opportunities.

Methodology / Instructions for Writing an Opinion Essay

Step 1: Choose a controversial topic and take a clear stance.
Step 2: Consider the audience and opposing viewpoints.
Step 3: Write the introduction with a hook, background, and Thesis Statement.
Step 4: Develop body paragraphs with reasons and supporting details.
Step 5: Introduce and respond to the Counterargument (refute or concede).
Step 6: Write the conclusion by restating the thesis, summarizing points, and ending with a strong statement.