Voter Suppression
To write an argument essay, you’ll need to gather evidence and present a well-reasoned argument on a debatable issue.First, take a firm stand on an interesting, passionate issue.Remember, you cannot argue a factual statement of belief; instead, base your paper on a strong position. Ask yourself:
• If a thousand people were asked about this issue, would they all agree? How many people could argue against my position? What would they say?
• Can the issue be resolved with a yes or no? If so, find a topic that requires a more critical response (think onion layers).
• Is my argument based on pathos and logos? Can I base my argument on research, facts and statistics, historical evidence, expert opinions, logical thoughts and reason, arguable truths (incorporating religion, cultural standards, or morality), anecdotes, and emotional appeal based on word choice (connotation)?
Don’t be afraid to firmly guide the reader—it is expected from an argument paper. You are in charge now, what do YOU think?
Don’t forget to address the opposing side of the issue/argument.
When you argue it is to your advantage to anticipate your opposition and strike down the argument within the body of your paper. By addressing the opposition, you achieve the following goals:
• illustrate a well-rounded understanding of the topic
• demonstrate a lack of bias
• enhance the level of trust that the reader has for both you and your opinion
• give yourself the opportunity to refute any opposing arguments
• strengthen your argument by diminishing your opposition’s argument How do accomplish this?
Once you have decided upon your issue, you can brainstorm several good reasons why you support a particular side of the argument. Some possible questions to ponder:
✓ What are some perspectives surrounding this topic? What are opposing perspectives?
✓ What is your position? How is it similar or different from other positions?
✓ Who is your audience? Why should your audience care about this issue?
✓ What is your purpose? What do you wish to accomplish by presenting your issue? What consequences or implications might your position or recommendations have on this issue and the people involved in it?
• Look at the reasons you provided and try to argue with yourself. Ask: Why would someone disagree with each of these points?
• Think carefully about your audience members and try to understand their background, their strongest influences, and their mindset. Ask: What parts of this issue will concern my opposing audience the most?
• Find the necessary facts, evidence, quotes from experts, etc. to refute the points that your opposition might make.