5.4: Organizing the Argumentative Essay

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Consider these options for organizing an argumentative essay. Which outline matches “Dress Code in College” or “Watching What We Eat”?


A	B	C
I. Introduction of the issue Thesis Statement: Writer’s Position II. First Supporting Reason III. Second Supporting Reason IV. Opposition’s Main Reason Response to the Opposition V. Conclusion: restating thesis, summary of support, recommendation	I. Introduction of the issue Thesis Statement: Writer’s Position II. Opposition’s First Reason Response to the Opposition III.Opposition’s Second Reason Response to the Opposition IV. Opposition’s Third Reason Response to the Opposition V. Conclusion: restating thesis, summary of support, recommendation	I. Introduction of the issue Thesis Statement: Writer’s Position II. Opposition's Main Reason Response to the Opposition III. Writer’s Supporting Reasons IV. Conclusion: restating thesis, summary of support, recommendation

Exercise 4

Here are a few thesis statements for argumentative essays. Underline the topic and write For or Against to show the writer’s position.

Children should not be given cell phones in middle school. _________
Vegetarian diets are the best option for modern living. _________
Gun ownership should be restricted among U.S. residents. _________
College students do not need a dress code to make good choices on their clothing. _________
Americans should try dieting to lose weight. _________