5. Argumentation:
In an argumentation essay, you defend your position (point of view) with a ries of solid reasons. You try to argue with someone, that is, to persuade others to accept or agree with your point of view.
(1) Strategies for argumentation
1) Acknowledge differing viewpoints
You can cite the opposing viewpoint in your thesis statement or in your supporting paragraphs. （319）
2) Grant the merits of differing viewpoints. （320）
3) U tactful, courteous language.
4) Rebut differing viewpoints
(2) How to write argumentative essays
Stage 1: write an argumentative thesis statement. The thesis statement should define the scope of the argument and make an asrtion that is open to debate.
The expository (p58) thesis statement vs. the argumentative thesis statement:
Similarity:
Both expository(说明的，解释的) and argumentative thesis statements express a certain opinion about a topic.
Difference:
An expository thesis statement does not include a sharp opinion; rather, it discuss advantages, disadvantages, types, reasons, results, problems, solutions, process, or categories of an issue often in the form of listing, enumeration, classification, or quencing.
An argumentative thesis statement has a clear stance on a debatable topic, fiercely ar
gues that the writer’s opinion is correct and reflects this subjectivity both in its style and tone.
Ineffective Examples of Argumentative Thesis Statements
Example 1:
Thesis: Something should be done on media bias.
This is not an effective argumentative thesis statement becau it does not clearly state the writer’s idea. The answers of questions like “what is that ‘something’ that should be done?” or “who should do it?” are not clear.
Example 2:
Thesis: There are 3 ways of media censorship.
This is not an argumentative thesis statement as the writer aims at listing the types of media censorship. Therefore, the writer’s purpo of writing this essay is not to persuade
the reader but to give information. Also, the ways of media censorship are not open to debate. Thus, they are not suitable for argumentation.
Effective Examples of Argumentative Thesis Statements
Example 1:
Thesis: Newspapers should not identify people by color, race, or religious faith in any way.
This is an effective argumentative thesis statement. Firstly, the topic is open to discussion. There may be people who would oppo this argument claiming that this kind of restriction would damage the objectivity of the news. Therefore, the writer holds a clear stance. Above all, it is obvious that the writer’s aim is not simply to inform the readers but to convince them to take his / her side in the debate.
Choosing an argumentative topic is not an easy task. The topic should be such that
∙ it should be narrowed down
× Marijuana ( [ˌmærəˈwɑːnə] 大麻) should be considered illegal. (Not a good topic becau it is too general. In some medical cas, marijuana is prescribed by the doctors and the patients are encouraged to u it in ca of suffering from too much pain)
√ Selling and using marijuana in public places should be considered illegal.
∙ it should contain an argument
× We should decide whether we want a bicycle or a car. (our stand is not clear: do we support having bicycles or cars?)
√ If we are under the age of 30 and want a healthy life, we should definitely get a bicycle instead of a car.
×Are you one of tho who thinks cheating is not good for students? (a question cannot be an argument)
√ Cheating helps students learn.
