Summary of "How to Write an Argumentative Essay in English | Structure"
Summary of "How to Write an Argumentative Essay in English | Structure"
This video, presented by Wendy from Worldwide Speak, provides a clear, beginner-friendly introduction to writing an Argumentative Essay in English. It explains the purpose, structure, and key components of an Argumentative Essay, with practical examples and detailed guidance on how to write each paragraph effectively.
Main Ideas and Concepts
- Purpose of an Argumentative Essay To convince the reader of your point of view by making a clear, strong argument while acknowledging and refuting the opposing viewpoint.
- Basic Structure of the Essay (4 Paragraphs)
- Introduction
- Hook: Grab the reader’s attention with a fact, surprising statement, or question.
- Background: Provide context and show understanding of the issue and its importance.
- Thesis: State a clear, strong opinion or stance on the issue.
- Body Paragraph 1 (Supporting Argument)
- Topic sentence: Introduce reasons supporting your thesis.
- Facts: Provide true or generally accepted statements supporting your point.
- Interpretation/Examples: Explain what the facts mean with specific details or examples to strengthen the argument.
- Concluding sentence: Wrap up the paragraph.
- Body Paragraph 2 (Counter-argument and Refutation)
- Present the opposing point of view (Counter-argument).
- Provide an example illustrating why others hold this view.
- Refute the opposing argument with evidence showing why your argument is stronger.
- Use contrast transition words like "however," "in contrast," or "on the other hand."
- Conclusion
- Restate the thesis in stronger terms (use stronger modal verbs like "must" instead of "should").
- Emphasize the importance of your viewpoint.
- End with a warning or prediction to keep the reader thinking about your argument.
- Introduction
Detailed Methodology / Instructions for Writing Each Paragraph
Introduction Paragraph:
- Start with a hook to engage the reader (e.g., a question or a scenario).
- Provide background information to set context and show awareness of the issue’s complexity.
- End with a clear thesis statement that expresses your opinion definitively.
Example:
- Hook: "Imagine waking up and not having to think about what you were going to wear each day."
- Background: Explain both sides of the School Uniform debate.
- Thesis: "Students should definitely wear uniforms to school."
Body Paragraph 1 (Supporting Your Argument):
- Begin with a topic sentence outlining the main reason(s).
- Present facts supporting your argument, using transition words like "first," "second," "last."
- Follow each fact with an interpretation or example, introduced by varied transitions such as "in fact," "for example," or "in particular."
- Conclude by summarizing the paragraph’s main point.
Example:
- Topic sentence: "There are numerous reasons why wearing a uniform to school is advantageous."
- Fact + Interpretation:
- "First, uniforms create a sense of unity."
- "In fact, a study showed students felt more pride and identity when wearing uniforms."
- Additional facts and examples follow similarly.
Body Paragraph 2 (Counter-argument and Refutation):
- State the opposing viewpoint clearly.
- Provide an example supporting the opposing view.
- Use contrast transition words to introduce your refutation.
- Refute the opposing argument with evidence and explanation, showing why your argument is stronger.
Example:
- Counter-argument: "Many think uniforms limit self-expression."
- Example: "Students who dress freely have higher self-esteem."
- Refutation: "However, many students conform to trends anyway, so uniforms don’t actually limit individuality."
- Provide specific examples or evidence supporting the refutation.
Conclusion Paragraph:
- Start with a transition phrase like "In sum" or "In conclusion."
- Restate your thesis with stronger language (e.g., "must" instead of "should").
- Emphasize the importance of your argument.
- End with a warning or prediction to leave a lasting impression on the reader.
Example:
- "In sum, if schools want an excellent learning atmosphere, students must wear uniforms."
- Emphasize community and mental health benefits.
- Predict a better educational environment if uniforms are adopted.
Additional Tips
- Use varied transition words to signal order, examples, and contrast, making your essay easier to follow and more engaging.
- Make sure the Counter-argument and refutation directly correspond to each other.
- Provide specific examples and detailed interpretations to strengthen your points.
- Practice writing the essay as a whole to see how the parts work together.
Speakers / Sources Featured
- Wendy from Worldwide Speak (primary speaker)
Category
Educational
