Writing Argumentative Essays | Recently The Educational Test

Writing Argumentative Essays Recently The Educational Testing Service

Recently, the Educational Testing Service revamped the infamous Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), which many universities use when determining whether to admit an applicant. The most significant change was to have test takers write an argumentative essay. This change in the SAT shows the importance the educators place on the ability to write this type of essay. That’s because writing an argumentative essay is doing nothing other than thinking critically—and leaving a paper trail for others to follow. This isn’t a book on writing, but writing an argumentative essay is so closely related to thinking critically that we would like to take the opportunity to offer our recommendations.

We know professors who have retired because they could not bear to read another student essay. As a result, we offer our two bits’ worth here in hopes of continuing to see familiar faces. As we said back on p. 71, an argumentative essay generally has four components: 1. A statement of the issue; 2. A statement of one’s position on that issue; 3. Arguments that support one’s position; 4. Rebuttals of arguments that support contrary positions.

Ideally, your essay should begin with an introduction to the issue that demonstrates that the issue is important or interesting. This is not always easy, but even when you are not excited about the subject yourself, it is still good practice to try to make your reader interested.

Your statement of the issue should be fair; that is, don’t try to state the issue in such a way that your position on it is obviously the only correct one. This can make your reader suspicious; the burden of convincing him or her will come later, when you give your arguments. Your position on the issue should be clear. Try to be brief. If you have stated the issue clearly, it should be a simple matter to identify your position.

Your arguments in support of your position also should be as succinct as you can make them, but it is much more important to be clear than to be brief. After all, this is the heart of your essay. The reasons you cite should be clearly relevant, and they should be either clearly reliable or backed up by further arguments. Much of the rest of this book is devoted to how this is done; hang in there. If there are well-known arguments for the other side of the issue, you should acknowledge them and offer some reason to believe that they are unconvincing.

You can do this either by attacking the premises that are commonly given or by trying to show that those premises do not actually support the opposing conclusion. More on these topics later, too.

Paper For Above instruction

Writing effective argumentative essays is an essential skill that reflects critical thinking abilities and the capacity to communicate persuasively. The recent change in the SAT to include an essay component underscores the growing emphasis on these skills within education. Developing an argumentative essay involves clearly articulating an issue, establishing a well-defined position, supporting that position with relevant arguments, and effectively rebutting opposing viewpoints.

Initiating an argumentative essay with a compelling introduction that highlights the significance or intrigue of the issue is crucial. Even when the topic lacks personal appeal, clever framing can engage the reader. The introduction should outline the issue fairly, avoiding any appearance of bias that might cast doubt on the writer's objectivity. A balanced presentation sets the stage for convincing arguments later on.

Clarity in stating one's position is vital. The thesis should be straightforward and easily identifiable, serving as the focal point around which the entire essay revolves. Conciseness helps avoid confusion and ensures that the reader understands the stance from the outset. Supporting arguments must be relevant and reliably sourced or logically supported. Each reason should contribute directly to substantiating the main position, avoiding tangential points that dilute the essay's focus.

Addressing counterarguments is indispensable to a robust essay. Recognizing opposing views lends credibility and demonstrates the writer's understanding of the complexity of the issue. More importantly, the writer should effectively challenge these opposing points, either by refuting their premises or showing why they do not hold up under scrutiny. Such rebuttals strengthen the overall argument.

Structuring the essay in a logical sequence enhances clarity. Each paragraph should build upon the previous one, guiding the reader seamlessly from introduction through supporting points to conclusion. Transitions should clarify relationships between ideas, ensuring the essay is cohesive and easy to follow.

Completeness entails supporting the main claim thoroughly, covering essential aspects of the issue, and drawing a clear conclusion that encapsulates the key arguments. While brevity is valued, clarity and depth should not be sacrificed for conciseness. A well-argued essay with thorough reasoning is more persuasive than a superficial one.

Overall, succeeding in argumentative writing requires meticulous planning, logical organization, and critical engagement with the topic. Respecting these principles not only improves academic performance but also sharpens reasoning skills applicable beyond the classroom. Properly constructed arguments contribute to a culture of critical discussion and informed debate, which are cornerstones of intellectual growth.

References

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