ARGUMENTATIVE

ESSAY OUTLINE
Hans, Joshua, Patricia, Siska, Vincent

The General Outline

Introductory paragraphs
Body paragraphs
Conclusion paragraphs

Introductory Paragraphs
Attention grabbing headline.
Topic explanation (For example, information about why the topic is
controversial, as well as both major sides of the argument.)
A clearly defined thesis statement. Your thesis statement must clearly identify
which side of the issue you intend to defend.

Body Paragraphs
This is where you show evidence that supports your side and evidence that
refutes the opposing side. There are a few ways to structure it.
In each sub-point you can introduce your claim and provide supporting
evidence for this point. The supporting evidence should also refute a claim
made by your opposition.
Introduce your points and supporting evidence in the first few sub-points. The
second half of your sub-points should refute your opposition's major arguments
and provide evidence that indicates why those points are incorrect.
Reverse the order. Begin by refuting your oppositions arguments first, providing
evidence against each one. The second half of your sub-points should
introduce your claims and provide evidence to support them.

Conclusion Paragraphs
Restate your thesis using new wording.
Review the main points. This should be a brief summary of your main points, not
a detailed one.
Include a call to action. Encourage the reader to become more active about
the topic at hand.
Indicate what you think the future of the topic might be. This can be positive or
negative, depending on whether your side of the argument is the commonly
accepted side or the minority opinion.