English-10

English 10 with Miss Dezza L. Amar

Review

Catching Up

Argumentative Essay

• The argumentative essay is a genre of writing that requires students to:

  • Investigate a topic.

  • Collect, generate, and evaluate evidence.

  • Establish a position on the topic concisely.

Parts of an Argumentative Essay

• The 4 parts of an argumentative essay are:

  1. Claim: The author's argument that they are attempting to prove.

  2. Counterclaim: The opposing argument that the author addresses to provide a rebuttal.

  3. Reasoning: The logic used to support the claim.

  4. Evidence: Facts, data, and expert quotes used to support reasoning.

Structure of Argumentative Essay

• The structure consists of three parts:

  1. Introduction: One paragraph with the thesis statement (overall claim).

  2. Body: Three paragraphs containing the reasoning, evidence, and counterclaims.

  3. Conclusion: One paragraph summarizing the argument and implications.

How to Write an Argumentative Essay

1. Choose a Topic: Select a debatable topic that interests you.

2. Define Your Position: Clearly state your stance and consider opposing viewpoints.

3. Conduct Research: Gather credible information from books, articles, and journals.

4. Create a Thesis Statement: Develop a clear statement outlining your main argument.

5. Outline Your Essay: Organize ideas with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

6. Write the Introduction: Use a hook to grab attention and provide background info.

7. Develop Body Paragraphs: Start with a topic sentence, support with evidence, and ensure transitions.

8. Address Counterarguments: Acknowledge opposing views and provide evidence to counter them.

9. Write the Conclusion: Summarize main points and end with a call to action or thought-provoking statement.

10. Revise, Edit, and Share: Check for clarity, coherence, and grammatical mistakes before sharing for feedback.

11. Finalize Your Essay: Make final edits based on feedback and ensure proper formatting.

Argumentative Essay Writing Tips

1. Choose a Clear and Controversial Topic: Ensure the topic sparks debate.

2. Conduct Thorough Research: Use reputable sources to support arguments.

3. Articulate Your Main Argument: Have a concise thesis statement as a roadmap for your argument.

4. Organize Your Essay: Ensure each paragraph focuses on a specific point contributing to the argument.

5. Support Claims with Evidence: Use facts, statistics, and examples appropriately cited.

6. Acknowledge Opposing Viewpoints: Strengthen your essay by addressing and refuting alternative perspectives respectfully.

7. Employ Persuasive Language: Avoid emotional appeals without evidence and maintain a professional tone.

8. Summarize Main Points in Conclusion: Restate your thesis and leave a lasting impression.

Sample Argumentative Essay Theme: Social Media Enhances Connectivity

• Thesis: Social media is a powerful tool that enhances connectivity, transcending geographical boundaries.

• Critique: Critics argue social media fosters division; however, its benefits significantly outweigh those concerns.

• Benefits:

  • Facilitates instant global communication through platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

  • Helps maintain relationships across distances, contributing to a global sense of community.

  • Empowers social justice movements (e.g., #BlackLivesMatter, #MeToo) through digital activism.

  • Encourages open dialogue and critical discourse, fostering a more informed society.

Argumentative Topics Examples

Education

• Should homework be banned in schools?

• Is online learning as effective as in-person classes?

• Should schools require students to wear uniforms?

Technology

• Are video games harmful to children?

• Should social media platforms ban fake news?

Environment

• Should plastic bags be banned worldwide?

• Is climate change the most pressing issue of our time?

Health

• Should junk food be taxed more heavily?

• Is a vegetarian diet healthier than a non-vegetarian diet?

Society

• Should voting be mandatory?

• Is social media harmful to relationships?

Literary Criticism

• Critiquing literature involves examining meaning, themes, and significance through different approaches:

  1. Structuralist/Formalist Approach: Focus on the text's structure and literary devices.

  2. Moralist Approach: Evaluate ethical lessons and values promoted or critiqued.

  3. Marxist Approach: Look at class struggle and economic power in the text.

  4. Feminist Approach: Analyze gender roles and power dynamics in the text.

  5. Historical Approach: Examine the context and values of the era in which the work was written.

  6. Reader-Response Approach: Focus on the reader’s interpretation and personal experiences.