Argumentative Writing
the writer’s main argument or position on an issue
What is a claim?
What is the purpose of expository writing?
To explain or inform the reader about a topic.
Explain the difference between quoting and paraphrasing.
Quoting uses the exact words from a source with quotation marks. Paraphrasing puts the ideas into your own words. Both require citations.
Identify the subject: “The students write essays.”
The subject is “The students.”
What is a thesis statement?
A sentence that states the main idea or argument of an essay.
Name one purpose of a counterclaim.
To show the writer understands opposing views and can respond to them.
The main idea of a paragraph; it introduces the paragraph’s focus.
What is a topic sentence?
Paraphrase: Define and give an example.
To restate information in your own words. Example: Original: “The sky is blue.” Paraphrase: The color of the sky is often blue during the day.
Correct the error: “Their going to the store.”
Corrected: “They’re going to the store.”
What does a transition word do?
It connects ideas and helps the writing flow smoothly.
Write a sentence using a rebuttal transition.
"Although some believe uniforms limit expression, students still benefit from a dress code."
Name 2 transition words for explanations.
Examples: “for example,” “in addition,” “furthermore,” “as a result.”
What does MLA stand for?
Modern Language Association.
What is a run-on sentence?
Two or more complete sentences joined incorrectly without punctuation or conjunctions.
What is the difference between first person and third person point of view? Give one example of each.
First person uses “I,” “me,” or “we” and shows the writer's personal point of view (Example: I believe school uniforms are helpful.).
Third person uses “he,” “she,” “they,” or specific names and avoids personal pronouns (Example: Students benefit from school uniforms.).
Explain why a rebuttal is important in an argument.
A rebuttal strengthens the argument by addressing and refuting the opposing view.
Describe how to structure a body paragraph.
Start with a topic sentence, give evidence or examples, explain the evidence, and end with a wrap-up sentence.
What goes inside parentheses in MLA citation?
The author's last name and page number (if available), e.g., (Smith 12).
Fix this fragment: “Because I was tired.”
Complete version: “I went to bed early because I was tired.”
What is the purpose of a writing hook?
To grab the reader’s attention at the beginning of an essay.
List and explain 3 parts of a strong argumentative intro.
1. Hook – grabs the reader’s attention.
2. Context– introduces the issue; gives background info
3. Thesis – states the main claim clearly.
What makes a strong expository conclusion?
It summarizes the main ideas, restates the topic, and leaves the reader with a final thought or insight.
MLA citation for: “The sky is blue” by Smith.
“The sky is blue” (Smith).
Combine these sentences: “She was late. She missed the bus.”
“She was late because she missed the bus.” or “She missed the bus, so she was late.”
What should you do before turning in your writing?
Revise and edit to check for clarity, grammar, and structure.