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Learning outcomes

  • define argumentative writing
  • identify claim, reason, and evidence
  • distinguish opinion from supported argument
  • structure a basic argumentative paragraph

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What does “writing to argue” mean?

  • Argument writing aims to convince the reader that a position is reasonable.
  • It does this through:
    • a clear claim
    • logical reasons
    • relevant evidence
    • controlled tone

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Core parts of an argument

  • Claim: the main position.
    • Example: “Uniforms should be compulsory in schools.”
  • Reason: why the claim should be accepted.
    • Example: “They reduce visible economic differences.”
  • Evidence: example, fact, observation, or explanation supporting the reason.
    • Example: “Students in common dress are less likely to be judged by expensive clothing.”

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Opinion vs argument

  • Opinion: “I do not like uniforms.”
  • Argument: “Uniforms promote discipline and reduce social comparison.”
An MCQ trap:
  • A strong sentence is not automatically an argument unless support is present.

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Basic paragraph structure

  1. Topic sentence with claim
  2. Supporting reason
  3. Evidence or example
  4. Concluding line
Example:
  • “School uniforms should be compulsory because they create equality. When students wear similar clothes, visible class differences reduce. This helps the classroom focus more on study than appearance. Therefore, uniforms contribute to a healthier learning environment.”

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Tone rules

  • Prefer formal and calm wording.
  • Avoid insults, exaggeration, and unsupported absolutes.
  • Use connectors such as because, therefore, however, for example.

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Exam hints and traps

  • One example does not replace a clear claim.
  • Repeating the claim is not the same as proving it.
  • Emotional language without reasoning weakens the answer.
  • A paragraph must stay on one point; do not mix many weak reasons.

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Quick practice

  1. Identify the claim: “Online classes should remain available after emergencies because they provide continuity.”
  2. Identify the reason: “Homework deadlines should be flexible because students may face connectivity problems.”
  3. Turn this opinion into an argument: “Exams are bad.”
Answer key:
  1. Online classes should remain available after emergencies
  2. students may face connectivity problems
  3. Example: “Some exams should be redesigned because memory-based testing does not always measure understanding.”