English Grammar, Spelling Rules, and Argumentative Writing

Vocabulary and key concept flashcards covering synonyms, spelling rules for IE and EI, and the outline and definitions of argumentative writing.

Synonyms

Words that have the same or nearly the same meaning as other words.

Purpose of Synonyms

Helps to expand vocabulary and avoid repetition in writing.

Adjective Synonyms for 'Bad'

Terrible, awful, horrible, dreadful.

Adjective Synonyms for 'Good'

Excelent, wonderful, fantastic, great.

IE Spelling Rule (EE sound)

When pronounced as EE as in 'feet' or 'week', I is followed by E, except after c (e.g., brief, chief, yield, shield, field, piece).

EI Spelling Rule ('a' sound)

EI is used when pronounced as 'a' as in weigh (e.g., neighbour, freight, reign, vein, sleigh).

EI Sounded as 'i' as in Ice

EI words pronounced with the 'i' sound as in ice, such as either, height, and sleight.

Exceptions to IE/EI Rules

Words that do not follow standard rules, including either, neither, weird, seizure, leisure, sieve, mischeif, and mischievous.

Argument

Requires the ability to reason and to arrange ideas in a logical sequence.

Argumentative Essay

An essay where the writer must draw on knowledge and understanding of the subject, see it from both sides, and combine research with evidence such as books, newspapers, and archives.

Goals of an Argumentative Essay

To argue for or against a topic, discuss points for and against while taking a position, or persuade/convince the reader or audience to agree with your view.

Argumentative Essay Introduction Outline

The section that states what the essay is about, explains the question, and outlines what the essay will discover.

Argumentative Essay Main Body Paragraph Structure

Consists of a Topic Sentence (Point), Supporting Statements or Evidence, and a Concluding Sentence.