Body Paragraph Structure
What does the “C” stand for in PEECT?
Counter
True or False: Personal opinion alone is strong evidence.
False
What is a counterargument?
An opposing view
What does “refute” mean?
To prove wrong or show its weakness
What is the first sentence in a body paragraph?
Topic sentence (Point)
What does the first “P” stand for in PEECT?
Point
Which is stronger evidence? A) Opinion B) Research
B
Why include a counterargument?
To show fairness and strengthen your position
After presenting a counterargument you must…
Refute it
What two elements must follow evidence?
Explanation + Link
What comes immediately after example/evidence?
Explanation
Why must writers explain their evidence?
To show how it proves the point
Which phrase introduces a counterargument? A) For example B) On the other hand C) In conclusion
B
Identify the flaw: “One teen mom became a millionaire so teen pregnancy isn’t bad.”
Hasty generalization
What is wrong here? “Teen pregnancy affects society. Studies show dropout rates increase. Some say teens can succeed.”
No explanation or refutation
What is the purpose of the techniques?
To make your argument more credible
Identify the missing part: “Teen pregnancy affects education. Many teens drop out.”
Explanation
Identify the counterargument: “Some people believe teen parents can still succeed in school.”
Teen parents can still succeed
Complete the refutation: “Although some argue teens can succeed, ___”
Most struggle due to financial & academic challenges
Add counterargument + refutation to: “Teen pregnancy affects financial stability.”
Opposing view + limit/weakness
Put these in order: Counter, Technique, Explanation, Point, Evidence, Flaw
Point → Evidence → Explanation → Link
Rewrite: “Teen mothers face financial struggles.” (add explanation)
Because limited education, childcare costs, fewer job opportunities
True or False: A counterargument weakens your essay
False
Why is refutation important?
Shows critical thinking and strengthens argument
give a short example of a full argument (Point, example, explanation, counter, flaw, technique) on the topic "Peer pressure is a reasonable excuse for students poor behavior in classes" - choose if you are for it or against it.
(Student writes full paragraph)