In an argumentative essay, the ###### is to persuade the reader ###### agree with your point of ######. It is crucial to have ###### interesting topic, a fair position, ###### evidence and persuasive language.

Find A Good Topic

To ###### good topic, come up with ###### issues. Choose a few that ###### at least two conflicting points ###### view. As you look over ###### list of topics, find one ###### really excites your interest.]]>
Although a strong ###### in a topic is important, ###### doesn't replace a strong argument. ###### have to take a position ###### can back up with reasoning ###### evidence. It's one thing to ###### a strong belief, but you'll ###### to explain why your belief ###### reasonable and logical.

Consider Both Sides And Take A Position

Once you ###### selected a topic, you should ###### a list of points for ###### sides of the argument. You'll ###### to include strong arguments for ###### "other" side in order to ###### them down.]]>
For example, imagine that you have been assigned the following topic: Recently, a young man was ###### from high school for wearing ###### to class. He wore black ###### and eyeliner. The young man ###### that the school was guilty ###### gender discrimination, since female students ###### makeup without punishment. Do you agree or disagree that the school discriminated against the young man?

First, draw ###### line down the middle of ###### piece of paper, dividing the ###### in half. Label one side ###### and one side cons. Think ###### strengths for each side.]]>
Pros. Yes, it is discrimination because:

• Girls and boys should be treated equally

• Sometimes makeup is necessary to cover embarrassing scars or marks

• High school is tough enough for students who feel different

• Makeup is a personal choice

• The school is using stereotypes about boys and girls

• If the school does not have a written rule about makeup, it can't make one up

Cons. No, it is not discrimination because:

• Makeup is traditionally worn by girls

• The boy is just trying to get attention

• School officials have to make ###### so that students don't distract ###### other.

• Officials can interpret dress codes to include other issues involving a student's appearance

After you have come ###### with several points for each ######, determine which side is strongest.

Gather Evidence

###### you choose a side, decide ###### your statements can be backed ###### by evidence.]]>
Example. Students have always been ###### to follow to dress codes.

######. The boy's black lipstick shows ###### he is not just wearing ###### to cover marks. He is ###### to draw attention to himself.]]>
Write The Essay

Once ###### have a good framework and ###### arguments, you can begin to ###### your essay. All essays should ###### three parts: the introduction, the ###### and the conclusion.

The first ###### should contain a brief explanation ###### your topic, some background information ###### a thesis statement. Your thesis ###### your position on the issue.]]>
Follow These Guidelines

• Avoid using emotional ######. Overly emotional arguments sound irrational.

• Know the difference between a ###### conclusion and an emotional point ###### view.

• Don't make up ###### and don't use untrustworthy sources.

• Cite your sources.]]>
• ###### prepared to defend your side ###### knowing the strongest arguments for ###### other side. You might be ###### by the teacher or by ###### student.]]>