Crafting an AP Argument Essay

From Reading to Writing: Crafting an AP® Argument Essay

Understanding Argument Analysis

  • Learn to read, analyze, and evaluate arguments.

  • Familiarize with methods like classical arrangement, induction/deduction, Rogerian argument, and the Toulmin model.

  • Employ patterns of development to structure written arguments.

Positioning and Writing Arguments

  • Writing arguments often responds to prompts.

  • Develop a position on others' viewpoints or a pressing issue.

Research and Evidence

  • Prepare for assignments with research, referring to:

    • Facts and statistics.

    • Expert testimonies.

    • Historical context.

  • In timed environments, rely on knowledge and memory.

Example Prompt: School Start Times

  • Prompt: Discuss the effects of sleep deprivation on students and the debate over school start times.

  • Restate the impacts of sleep deprivation on health and safety.

Steps to Establish a Position

  1. Claim vs. Fact:

    • A position is a claim supported by evidence, not merely a statement of fact.

    • Consider personal experience as evidence about school start times.

  2. Counterarguments:

    • Acknowledge opposing views such as schedule conflicts for various activities.

    • Weigh pros (extra sleep) vs. cons (later end times).

  3. Questions to Consider:

    • Do teenagers get enough sleep?

    • Why do start times conflict with adult work schedules?

    • Are there societal values reflected in school schedules?

Developing a Thesis Statement

  • Construct a clear thesis that makes a claim related to the prompt.

  • Types of thesis statements:

    • Closed Thesis: Lists main points of the argument.

      • Example: "Start times should be no earlier than 8:30 A.M. due to negative health impacts."

    • Open Thesis: General claim without listing specific points.

      • Example: "Early start times prioritize economic and convenience issues over student health."

    • Counterargument Thesis: Acknowledges opposing view first.

      • Example: "Despite economic constraints, student health should be prioritized in school schedules."

Crafting the Introduction

  • Engage with a hook (question or anecdote).

  • Contextualize the argument, addressing why the topic is significant to the audience.

Writing the Body Paragraphs

  • Each paragraph has:

    1. Topic Sentence: Claim connecting to the thesis.

    2. Evidence: Relevant, accurate, sufficient.

    3. Commentary: Explain the link between evidence and claim.

Writing Topic Sentences

  • Make strong initial claims to support thesis.

  • Ensure logical progression and clarity back to the thesis.

Choosing Evidence

  • Consider types of evidence that:

    • Strengthen validity of the claim.

    • Appeal emotionally to the audience.

    • Enhance credibility as a writer.

Developing Effective Commentary

  • Establish connections between evidence and claims.

  • Ensure clarity in the line of reasoning.

Making Rhetorical Choices

  • Use effective transitions and repetition for coherence in arguments.

  • Maintain strong connections throughout paragraphs.

Concluding Your Argument

  • Move from your argument back to broader implications.

  • Answer the question "So what?" to highlight the significance of your argument.

Revising an Argument Essay

  • Importance of thoughtful revision for clarity and strength.

  • Questions to consider while revising:

    • Is there a clear thesis?

    • Does each topic sentence support the thesis?

    • Is evidence sufficient and balanced?

    • How effective is the conclusion?

Analyzing Sample Essays

  • Consider the strengths and weaknesses in sample arguments to learn how to improve your work.

  • Identify thesis, evidence, counterclaims, and overall effectiveness.

Developing Sophistication in Arguments

  • Encourage addressing complexities and nuances in the argument.

  • Use modifiers to avoid absolute statements.