toulmin argument essay ideas

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Toulmin Argument

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What is the Toulmin Method?

Developed by philosopher Stephen E. Toulmin, the Toulmin method is a style of argumentation that breaks arguments down into six component parts: claim, grounds, warrant, qualifier, rebuttal, and backing . In Toulmin’s method, every argument begins with three fundamental parts: the claim, the grounds, and the warrant.

A  claim  is the assertion that authors would like to prove to their audience. It is, in other words, the main argument.

The  grounds  of an argument are the evidence and facts that help support the claim.

Finally, the  warrant , which is either implied or stated explicitly, is the assumption that links the grounds to the claim.

For example, if you argue that there are dogs nearby:

In this example, in order to assert the claim that a dog is nearby, we provide evidence and specific facts—or the grounds—by acknowledging that we hear barking and howling. Since we know that dogs bark and howl (i.e., since we have a warrant) we can assume that a dog is nearby. 

Now, let’s try a more academic approach. Let’s say that you are writing a paper on how more research needs to be done on the way that computer-mediated communication influences online and offline relationships (a paper, in other words, very much like the OWL's APA Sample paper ).

In this case, to assert the claim that additional research needs to be made on how online communication affects relationships, the author shows how the original article needs to account for technological, demographic, and modality limitations in the study.  Since we know that when a study lacks a perspective, it would be beneficial to do more research (i.e., we have a warrant), it would be safe to assume that more research should be conducted (i.e. the claim).

The other three elements—backing, qualifier, and rebuttal—are not fundamental to a Toulmin argument, but may be added as necessary. Using these elements wisely can help writers construct full, nuanced arguments.

Backing  refers to any additional support of the warrant. In many cases, the warrant is implied, and therefore the backing provides support for the warrant by giving a specific example that justifies the warrant.

The  qualifier  shows that a claim may not be true in all circumstances. Words like “presumably,” “some,” and “many” help your audience understand that you know there are instances where your claim may not be correct. 

The  rebuttal  is an acknowledgement of another valid view of the situation. 

Including a qualifier or a rebuttal in an argument helps build your ethos, or credibility. When you acknowledge that your view isn’t always true or when you provide multiple views of a situation, you build an image of a careful, unbiased thinker, rather than of someone blindly pushing for a single interpretation of the situation.

For example:

We can also add these components to our academic paper example:

Note that, in addition to Stephen Toulmin’s  Uses of Argument , students and instructors may find it useful to consult the article “Using Toulmin’s Model of Argumentation” by Joan Karbach for more information. 

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52 Argumentative Essay Ideas that are Actually Interesting

What’s covered:, how to pick a good argumentative essay topic, elements of a strong argumentative essay, argumentative essay idea example topics.

Are you having writer’s block? Coming up with an essay topic can be the hardest part of the process. You have very likely encountered argumentative essay writing in high school and have been asked to write your own. If you’re having trouble finding a topic, we’ve created a list of 52 essay ideas to help jumpstart your brainstorming process! In addition, this post will cover strategies for picking a topic and how to make your argument a strong one. Ultimately, the goal is to convince your reader. 

An argumentative essay tasks the writer with presenting an assertion and bolstering that assertion with proper research. You’ll present the claim’s authenticity. This means that whatever argument you’re making must be empirically true! Writing an argumentative essay without any evidence will leave you stranded without any facts to back up your claim. When choosing your essay topic, begin by thinking about themes that have been researched before. Readers will be more engaged with an argument that is supported by data.

This isn’t to say that your argumentative essay topic has to be as well-known, like “Gravity: Does it Exist?” but it shouldn’t be so obscure that there isn’t ample evidence. Finding a topic with multiple sources confirming its validity will help you support your thesis throughout your essay. If upon review of these articles you begin to doubt their worth due to small sample sizes, biased funding sources, or scientific disintegrity, don’t be afraid to move on to a different topic. Your ultimate goal should be proving to your audience that your argument is true because the data supports it.

The hardest essays to write are the ones that you don’t care about. If you don’t care about your topic, why should someone else? Topics that are more personal to the reader are immediately more thoughtful and meaningful because the author’s passion shines through. If you are free to choose an argumentative essay topic, find a topic where the papers you read and cite are fun to read. It’s much easier to write when the passion is already inside of you!

However, you won’t always have the choice to pick your topic. You may receive an assignment to write an argumentative essay that you feel is boring. There is still value in writing an argumentative essay on a topic that may not be of interest to you. It will push you to study a new topic, and broaden your ability to write on a variety of topics. Getting good at proving a point thoroughly and effectively will help you to both understand different fields more completely and increase your comfort with scientific writing.

Convincing Thesis Statement

It’s important to remember the general essay structure: an introduction paragraph with a thesis statement, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. A strong thesis statement will set your essay up for success. What is it? A succinct, concise, and pithy sentence found in your first paragraph that summarizes your main point. Pour over this statement to ensure that you can set up your reader to understand your essay. You should also restate your thesis throughout your essay to keep your reader focused on your point.

Ample Research

A typical argumentative essay prompt may look like this: “What has been the most important invention of the 21st century? Support your claim with evidence.” This question is open-ended and gives you flexibility. But that also means it requires research to prove your point convincingly. The strongest essays weave scientific quotes and results into your writing. You can use recent articles, primary sources, or news sources. Maybe you even cite your own research. Remember, this process takes time, so be sure you set aside enough time to dive deep into your topic.

Clear Structure

If the reader can’t follow your argument, all your research could be for nothing! Structure is key to persuading your audience. Below are two common argumentative essay structures that you can use to organize your essays.

The Toulmin argument and the Rogerian argument each contain the four sections mentioned above but executes them in different ways. Be sure to familiarize yourself with both essay structures so that your essay is the most effective it can be.

The Toulmin argument has a straightforward presentation. You begin with your assertion, your thesis statement. You then list the evidence that supports your point and why these are valid sources. The bulk of your essay should be explaining how your sources support your claim. You then end your essay by acknowledging and discussing the problems or flaws that readers may find in your presentation. Then, you should list the solutions to these and alternative perspectives and prove your argument is stronger.

The Rogerian argument has a more complex structure. You begin with a discussion of what opposing sides do right and the validity of their arguments. This is effective because it allows you to piece apart your opponent’s argument. The next section contains your position on the questions. In this section, it is important to list problems with your opponent’s argument that your argument fixes. This way, your position feels much stronger. Your essay ends with suggesting a possible compromise between the two sides. A combination of the two sides could be the most effective solution.

• Is the death penalty effective?
• Is our election process fair?
• Is the electoral college outdated?
• Should we have lower taxes?
• How many Supreme Court Justices should there be?
• Should there be different term limits for elected officials?
• Should the drinking age be lowered?
• Does religion cause war?
• Should the country legalize marijuana?
• Should the country have tighter gun control laws?
• Should men get paternity leave?
• Should maternity leave be longer?
• Should smoking be banned?
• Should the government have a say in our diet?
• Should birth control be free?
• Should we increase access to condoms for teens?
• Should abortion be legal?
• Do school uniforms help educational attainment?
• Are kids better or worse students than they were ten years ago?
• Should students be allowed to cheat?
• Is school too long?
• Does school start too early?
• Are there benefits to attending a single-sex school?
• Is summer break still relevant?
• Is college too expensive?

Art / Culture

• How can you reform copyright law?
• What was the best decade for music?
• Do video games cause students to be more violent?
• Should content online be more harshly regulated?
• Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?
• Should schools ban books?
• How important is art education?
• Should music be taught in school?
• Are music-sharing services helpful to artists?
• What is the best way to teach science in a religious school?
• Should fracking be legal?
• Should parents be allowed to modify their unborn children?
• Should vaccinations be required for attending school?
• Are GMOs helpful or harmful?
• Are we too dependent on our phones?
• Should everyone have internet access?
• Should internet access be free?
• Should the police force be required to wear body cams?
• Should social media companies be allowed to collect data from their users?
• How has the internet impacted human society?
• Should self-driving cars be allowed on the streets?
• Should athletes be held to high moral standards?
• Are professional athletes paid too much?
• Should the U.S. have more professional sports teams?
• Should sports be separated by gender?
• Should college athletes be paid?
• What are the best ways to increase safety in sports?

Where to Get More Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

If you need more help brainstorming topics, especially those that are personalized to your interests, you can use CollegeVine’s free AI tutor, Ivy . Ivy can help you come up with original argumentative essay ideas, and she can also help with the rest of your homework, from math to languages.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

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Elements of Argument

9 Toulmin Argument Model

By liza long, amy minervini, and joel gladd.

Stephen Edelston Toulmin (born March 25, 1922) was a British philosopher, author, and educator. Toulmin devoted his works to analyzing moral reasoning. He sought to develop practical ways to evaluate ethical arguments effectively. The Toulmin Model of Argumentation, a diagram containing six interrelated components, was considered Toulmin’s most influential work, particularly in the fields of rhetoric, communication, and computer science. His components continue to provide useful means for analyzing arguments.

The following are the parts of a Toulmin argument (see Figure 9.1 for an example):

Claim: The claim is a statement that you are asking the other person to accept as true (i.e., a conclusion) and forms the nexus of the Toulmin argument because all the other parts relate back to the claim. The claim can include information and ideas you are asking readers to accept as true or actions you want them to accept and enact. One example of a claim is the following:

My grandfather should wear a hearing aid.

This claim both asks the reader to believe an idea and suggests an action to enact. However, like all claims, it can be challenged. Thus, a Toulmin argument does not end with a claim but also includes grounds and warrant to give support and reasoning to the claim.

Grounds: The grounds form the basis of real persuasion and include the reasoning behind the claim, data, and proof of expertise. Think of grounds as a combination of premises and support. The truth of the claim rests upon the grounds, so those grounds should be tested for strength, credibility, relevance, and reliability. The following are examples of grounds:

Over 70% of all people over 65 years have a hearing difficulty. Hearing aids raise hearing quality.

Information is usually a powerful element of persuasion, although it does affect people differently. Those who are dogmatic, logical, or rational will more likely be persuaded by factual data. Those who argue emotionally and who are highly invested in their own position will challenge it or otherwise try to ignore it. Thus, grounds can also include appeals to emotion, provided they aren’t misused. The best arguments, however, use a variety of support and rhetorical appeals.

Warrant: A warrant links data and other grounds to a claim, legitimizing the claim by showing the grounds to be relevant. The warrant may be carefully explained and explicit or unspoken and implicit. The warrant answers the question, “Why does that data mean your claim is true?” For example,

A hearing aid helps most people hear better.

The warrant may be simple, and it may also be a longer argument with additional sub-elements including those described below. Warrants may be based on logos, ethos or pathos, or values that are assumed to be shared with the listener. In many arguments, warrants are often implicit and, hence, unstated. This gives space for the other person to question and expose the warrant, perhaps to show it is weak or unfounded.

Backing: The backing for an argument gives additional support to the warrant. Backing can be confused with grounds, but the main difference is this: grounds should directly support the premises of the main argument itself, while backing exists to help the warrants make more sense. For example,

Hearing aids are available locally.

This statement works as backing because it gives credence to the warrant stated above, that a hearing aid will help most people hear better. The fact that hearing aids are readily available makes the warrant even more reasonable.

Qualifier: The qualifier indicates how the data justifies the warrant and may limit how universally the claim applies. The necessity of qualifying words comes from the plain fact that most absolute claims are ultimately false (all women want to be mothers, e.g.) because one counterexample sinks them immediately. Thus, most arguments need some sort of qualifier, words that temper an absolute claim and make it more reasonable. Common qualifiers include “most,” “usually,” “always,” or “sometimes.” For example,

Hearing aids help most people.

The qualifier “most” here allows for the reasonable understanding that rarely does one thing (a hearing aid) universally benefit all people. Another variant is the reservation, which may give the possibility of the claim being incorrect:

Unless there is evidence to the contrary, hearing aids do no harm to ears.

Qualifiers and reservations can be used to bolster weak arguments, so it is important to recognize them. They are often used by advertisers who are constrained not to lie. Thus, they slip “usually,” “virtually,” “unless,” and so on into their claims to protect against liability. While this may seem like sneaky practice, and it can be for some advertisers, it is important to note that the use of qualifiers and reservations can be a useful and legitimate part of an argument.

Rebuttal: Despite the careful construction of the argument, there may still be counterarguments that can be used. These may be rebutted either through a continued dialogue, or by pre-empting the counter-argument by giving the rebuttal during the initial presentation of the argument. For example, if you anticipated a counterargument that hearing aids, as a technology, may be fraught with technical difficulties, you would include a rebuttal to deal with that counterargument:

There is a support desk that deals with technical problems.

Any rebuttal is an argument in itself, and thus may include a claim, warrant, backing, and the other parts of the Toulmin structure.

Even if you do not wish to write an essay using strict Toulmin structure, using the Toulmin checklist can make an argument stronger. When first proposed, Toulmin based his layout on legal arguments, intending it to be used analyzing arguments typically found in the courtroom; in fact, Toulmin did not realize that this layout would be applicable to other fields until later. The first three elements–“claim,” “grounds,” and “warrant”–are considered the essential components of practical arguments, while the last three—“qualifier,” “backing,” and “rebuttal”—may not be necessary for all arguments.

Toulmin Exercise

Find an argument in essay form and diagram it using the Toulmin model. The argument can come from an Op-Ed article in a newspaper or a magazine think piece or a scholarly journal. See if you can find all six elements of the Toulmin argument. Use the structure above to diagram your article’s argument.

Attributions

“Toulmin Argument Model” by Liza Long, Amy Minervini, and Joel Gladd is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0

Writing Arguments in STEM Copyright © by Jason Peters; Jennifer Bates; Erin Martin-Elston; Sadie Johann; Rebekah Maples; Anne Regan; and Morgan White is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Encyclopedia

Writing with artificial intelligence, toulmin argument.

Stephen Toulmin's model of argumentation theorizes six rhetorical moves constitute argumentation: Evidence , Warrant , Claim , Qualifier , Rebuttal, and Backing . Learn to develop clear, persuasive arguments and to critique the arguments of others. By learning this model, you'll gain the skills to construct clearer, more persuasive arguments and critically assess the arguments presented by others, enhancing your writing and analytical abilities in academic and professional settings.

Table of Contents

Stephen Toulmin’s (1958) model of argument conceptualizes argument as a series of six rhetorical moves :

• Data, Evidence
• Counterargument, Counterclaim
• Reservation/Rebuttal

Related Concepts

Evidence ; Persuasion; Rhetorical Analysis ; Rhetorical Reasoning

Why Does Toulmin Argument Matter?

Toulmin’s model of argumentation is particularly valuable for college students because it provides a structured framework for analyzing and constructing arguments, skills that are essential across various academic disciplines and real-world situations.

By understanding Toulmin’s components—claim, evidence, warrant, backing, qualifier, and rebuttal—students can develop more coherent, persuasive arguments and critically evaluate the arguments of others. This model encourages students to think deeply about the logic and effectiveness of their argumentation, emphasizing the importance of supporting claims with solid evidence and reasoning. Additionally, familiarity with Toulmin’s model prepares students for scenarios involving critical analysis and debate, whether in writing essays, participating in discussions, or presenting research.

By mastering this model, students enhance their ability to communicate effectively, a crucial skill for academic success and professional advancement.

When should writers or speakers consider Toulmin’s model of argument?

Toulmin’s model of argument works especially well in situations where disputes are being reviewed by a third party — such as judge, an arbitrator, or evaluation committee.

Declarative knowledge of Toulmin Argument helps with

• inventing or developing your own arguments (even if you’re developing a Rogerian or Aristotelian argument )
• critiquing your arguments or the arguments of others.

Summary of Stephen Toulmin’s Model of Argument

The Three Essential Components of Argument

Stephen Toulmin’s model of argument posits the three essential elements of an argument are

• Data (aka a Fact or Evidence)
• Warrant (which the writer, speaker, knowledge worker . . . may imply rather than explicitly state).

Toulmin’s model presumes data, matters of fact and opinion, must be supplied as evidence to support a claim. The claim focuses the discourse by explicitly stating the desired conclusion of the argument.

In turn, a warrant, the third essential component of an argument, provides the reasoning that links the data to the claim.

The example in Figure 1 demonstrates the abstract, hypothetical linking between a claim and data that a warrant provides. Prior to this link–that. people born in Bermuda are British–the claim that Harry is a British subject because he was born in Bermuda is unsubstantiated.

The 6 Elements of Successful Argument

While the argument presented in Figure 1 is a simple one, life is not always simple.

In situations where people are likely to dispute the application of a warrant to data, you may need to develop backing for your warrants. o account for the conflicting desires and assumptions of an audience, Toulmin identifies a second triad of components that may not be used:

• Reservation
• Qualification.

Charles Kneupper provides us with the following diagram of these six elements (238):

*This article is adapted from Moxley, Joseph M. “ Reinventing the Wheel or Teaching the Basics ?:  College Writers ‘  Knowledge of Argumentation .” Composition. Studies 21.2 (1993): 3-15.

Kneupper, C. W. (1978). Teaching Argument: An Introduction to the Toulmin Model.  College Composition and Communication ,  29 (3), 237–241. https://doi.org/10.2307/356935

Moxley, Joseph M. “ Reinventing the Wheel or Teaching the Basics ?:  College Writers ‘  Knowledge of Argumentation .” Composition. Studies 21.2 (1993): 3-15.

Toulmin, S. (1969).  The Uses of Argument , Cambridge, England: Cambridge University Press

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50 Great Argumentative Essay Topics for Any Assignment

General Education

At some point, you’re going to be asked to write an argumentative essay. An argumentative essay is exactly what it sounds like—an essay in which you’ll be making an argument, using examples and research to back up your point.

But not all argumentative essay topics are created equal. Not only do you have to structure your essay right to have a good impact on the reader, but even your choice of subject can impact how readers feel about your work.

In this article, we’ll cover the basics of writing argumentative essays, including what argumentative essays are, how to write a good one, and how to pick a topic that works for you. Then check out a list of argumentative essay ideas to help you get started.

What Is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is one that makes an argument through research. These essays take a position and support it through evidence, but, unlike many other kinds of essays, they are interested in expressing a specific argument supported by research and evidence.

A good argumentative essay will be based on established or new research rather than only on your thoughts and feelings. Imagine that you’re trying to get your parents to raise your allowance, and you can offer one of two arguments in your favor:

You should raise my allowance because I want you to.

You should raise my allowance because I’ve been taking on more chores without complaining.

The first argument is based entirely in feelings without any factual backup, whereas the second is based on evidence that can be proven. Your parents are more likely to respond positively to the second argument because it demonstrates that you have done something to earn the increased allowance. Similarly, a well-researched and reasoned argument will show readers that your point has a basis in fact, not just feelings.

The standard five-paragraph essay is common in writing argumentative essays, but it’s not the only way to write one. An argumentative essay is typically written in one of two formats, the Toulmin model or the Rogerian model.

The Toulmin model is the most common, comprised of an introduction with a claim (otherwise known as a thesis), with data to support it. This style of essay will also include rebuttals, helping to strengthen your argument by anticipating counterarguments.

The Rogerian model analyzes two sides of an argument and reaches a conclusion after weighing the strengths and weaknesses of each.

Both essay styles rely on well-reasoned logic and supporting evidence to prove a point, just in two different ways.

The important thing to note about argumentative essays as opposed to other kinds of essays is that they aim to argue a specific point rather than to explain something or to tell a story. While they may have some things in common with analytical essays, the primary difference is in their objective—an argumentative essay aims to convince someone of something, whereas an analytical essay contextualizes a topic with research.

What Makes a Good Argumentative Essay?

To write an effective argumentative essay, you need to know what a good one looks like. In addition to a solid structure, you’ll need an argument, a strong thesis, and solid research.

An Argument

Unlike other forms of essays, you are trying to convince your reader of something. You’re not just teaching them a concept or demonstrating an idea—you’re constructing an argument to change the readers’ thinking.

You’ll need to develop a good argument, which encompasses not just your main point, but also all the pieces that make it up.

Think beyond what you are saying and include how you’re saying it. How will you take an idea and turn it into a complex and well thought out argument that is capable of changing somebody’s mind?

A Strong Thesis

The thesis is the core of your argument. What specific message are you trying to get across? State that message in one sentence, and that will be your thesis.

This is the foundation on which your essay is built, so it needs to be strong and well-reasoned. You need to be able to expand on it with facts and sources, not just feelings.

A good argumentative essay isn’t just based on your individual thoughts, but research. That can be citing sources and other arguments or it can mean direct research in the field, depending on what your argument is and the context in which you are arguing it.

Be prepared to back your thesis up with reporting from scientific journals, newspapers, or other forms of research. Having well-researched sources will help support your argument better than hearsay or assumptions. If you can’t find enough research to back up your point, it’s worth reconsidering your thesis or conducting original research, if possible.

How to Come Up With an Argumentative Essay Topic

Sometimes you may find yourself arguing things you don’t necessarily believe. That’s totally fine—you don’t actually have to wholeheartedly believe in what you’re arguing in order to construct a compelling argument.

However, if you have free choice of topic, it’s a good idea to pick something you feel strongly about. There are two key components to a good argumentative essay: a strong stance, and an assortment of evidence. If you’re interested and feel passionate about the topic you choose, you'll have an easier time finding evidence to support it, but it's the evidence that's most important. 

So, to choose a topic, think about things you feel strongly about, whether positively or negatively. You can make a list of ideas and narrow those down to a handful of things, then expand on those ideas with a few potential points you want to hit on.

For example, say you’re trying to decide whether you should write about how your neighborhood should ban weed killer, that your school’s lunch should be free for all students, or that the school day should be cut by one hour. To decide between these ideas, you can make a list of three to five points for each that cover the different evidence you could use to support each point.

For the weed killer ban, you could say that weed killer has been proven to have adverse impacts on bees, that there are simple, natural alternatives, and that weeds aren’t actually bad to have around. For the free lunch idea, you could suggest that some students have to go hungry because they can’t afford lunch, that funds could be diverted from other places to support free lunch, and that other items, like chips or pizza, could be sold to help make up lost revenue. And for the school day length example, you could argue that teenagers generally don’t get enough sleep, that you have too much homework and not enough time to do it, and that teenagers don’t spend enough time with their families.

You might find as you make these lists that some of them are stronger than others. The more evidence you have and the stronger you feel that that evidence is, the better the topic.  Of course, if you feel that one topic may have more evidence but you’d rather not write about it, it’s okay to pick another topic instead. When you’re making arguments, it can be much easier to find strong points and evidence if you feel passionate about our topic than if you don't.

50 Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

If you’re struggling to come up with topics on your own, read through this list of argumentative essay topics to help get you started!

• Should fracking be legal?
• Should parents be able to modify their unborn children?
• Do GMOs help or harm people?
• Should vaccinations be required for students to attend public school?
• Should world governments get involved in addressing climate change?
• Should Facebook be allowed to collect data from its users?
• Should self-driving cars be legal?
• Is it ethical to replace human workers with automation?
• Should there be laws against using cell phones while driving?
• Has the internet positively or negatively impacted human society?

• Should college athletes be paid for being on sports teams?
• Should coaches and players make the same amount of money?
• Should sports be segregated by gender?
• Should the concept of designated hitters in baseball be abolished?
• Should US sports take soccer more seriously?
• Should religious organizations have to pay taxes?
• Should religious clubs be allowed in schools?
• Should “one nation under God” be in the pledge of allegiance?
• Should religion be taught in schools?
• Should clergy be allowed to marry?
• Should minors be able to purchase birth control without parental consent?
• Should the US switch to single-payer healthcare?
• Should assisted suicide be legal?
• Should dietary supplements and weight loss items like teas be allowed to advertise through influencers?
• Should doctors be allowed to promote medicines?

Government/Politics

• Is the electoral college an effective system for modern America?
• Should Puerto Rico become a state?
• Should voter registration be automatic?
• Should people in prison be allowed to vote?
• Should Supreme Court justices be elected?
• Should sex work be legalized?
• Should Columbus Day be replaced with Indigenous Peoples’ Day?
• Should the death penalty be legal?
• Should animal testing be allowed?
• Should drug possession be decriminalized?

• Should unpaid internships be legal?
• Should minimum wage be increased?
• Should monopolies be allowed?
• Is universal basic income a good idea?
• Should corporations have a higher or lower tax rate?
• Are school uniforms a good idea?
• Should PE affect a student’s grades?
• Should college be free?
• Should Greek life in colleges be abolished?
• Should students be taught comprehensive sex ed?

Arts/Culture

• Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?
• Should books with objectionable words be banned?
• Should content on YouTube be better regulated?
• Is art education important?
• Should art and music sharing online be allowed?

How to Argue Effectively

A strong argument isn’t just about having a good point. If you can’t support that point well, your argument falls apart.

One of the most important things you can do in writing a strong argumentative essay is organizing well. Your essay should have a distinct beginning, middle, and end, better known as the introduction, body and opposition, and conclusion.

This example follows the Toulmin model—if your essay follows the Rogerian model, the same basic premise is true, but your thesis will instead propose two conflicting viewpoints that will be resolved through evidence in the body, with your conclusion choosing the stronger of the two arguments.

Introduction

Your hook should draw the reader’s interest immediately. Questions are a common way of getting interest, as well as evocative language or a strong statistic

Don’t assume that your audience is already familiar with your topic. Give them some background information, such as a brief history of the issue or some additional context.

Your thesis is the crux of your argument. In an argumentative essay, your thesis should be clearly outlined so that readers know exactly what point you’ll be making. Don’t explain all your evidence in the opening, but do take a strong stance and make it clear what you’ll be discussing.

Your claims are the ideas you’ll use to support your thesis. For example, if you’re writing about how your neighborhood shouldn’t use weed killer, your claim might be that it’s bad for the environment. But you can’t just say that on its own—you need evidence to support it.

Evidence is the backbone of your argument. This can be things you glean from scientific studies, newspaper articles, or your own research. You might cite a study that says that weed killer has an adverse effect on bees, or a newspaper article that discusses how one town eliminated weed killer and saw an increase in water quality. These kinds of hard evidence support your point with demonstrable facts, strengthening your argument.

In your essay, you want to think about how the opposition would respond to your claims and respond to them. Don’t pick the weakest arguments, either— figure out what other people are saying and respond to those arguments with clearly reasoned arguments.

Demonstrating that you not only understand the opposition’s point, but that your argument is strong enough to withstand it, is one of the key pieces to a successful argumentative essay.

Conclusions are a place to clearly restate your original point, because doing so will remind readers exactly what you’re arguing and show them how well you’ve argued that point.

Summarize your main claims by restating them, though you don’t need to bring up the evidence again. This helps remind readers of everything you’ve said throughout the essay.

End by suggesting a picture of a world in which your argument and action are ignored. This increases the impact of your argument and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

A strong argumentative essay is one with good structure and a strong argument , but there are a few other things you can keep in mind to further strengthen your point.

When you’re crafting an argument, it can be easy to get distracted by all the information and complications in your argument. It’s important to stay focused—be clear in your thesis and home in on claims that directly support that thesis.

Be Rational

It’s important that your claims and evidence be based in facts, not just opinion. That’s why it’s important to use reliable sources based in science and reporting—otherwise, it’s easy for people to debunk your arguments.

Don’t rely solely on your feelings about the topic. If you can’t back a claim up with real evidence, it leaves room for counterarguments you may not anticipate. Make sure that you can support everything you say with clear and concrete evidence, and your claims will be a lot stronger!

What’s Next?

No matter what kind of essay you're writing, a strong plan will help you have a bigger impact. This guide to writing a college essay is a great way to get started on your essay organizing journey!

Brushing up on your essay format knowledge to prep for the SAT? Check out this list of SAT essay prompts to help you kickstart your studying!

A bunch of great essay examples can help you aspire to greatness, but bad essays can also be a warning for what not to do. This guide to bad college essays will help you better understand common mistakes to avoid in essay writing!

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Melissa Brinks graduated from the University of Washington in 2014 with a Bachelor's in English with a creative writing emphasis. She has spent several years tutoring K-12 students in many subjects, including in SAT prep, to help them prepare for their college education.

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Toulmin Method: Guide to Writing a Successful Essay

How to write an essay in the toulmin method.

Argumentative essays are a genre of writing that challenges the student to research a topic, gather, generate and evaluate evidence, and summarize a position on the issue. It helps to get as much benefit out of the study as possible. The Toulmin model essay could be part of the shaping and self-understanding of the individual, and one day it will provide evidence to rely on in becoming a professional.

What is the Toulmin Method?

The essay form has become widespread in contemporary higher education, so many students are faced with this question – how to write an essay using the Toulmin model? The idea of an essay comes to us from the Anglo-Saxon educational tradition, where it is one of the basic elements of learning, especially in the early years. Starting an essay, especially an argument one, is a creative and demanding task. Not all students have time for such a job, given their academic schedule. If you want professional assistance, you can hire a writer to write an argumentative essay to make sure of the quality.

Toulmin’s approach, based on logic and in-depth analysis, is best suited to solving complex questions. The British philosopher and professor engaged in practical argumentation believed that it is a process of proposing hypotheses involving the discovery of new ideas and verifying existing information. In The Uses of Argument (1958), Stephen Toulmin proposed a set containing six interrelated components for analyzing arguments, and these are what we will talk about today. Toulmin considered that a good argument could be successful in credibility and resistance to additional criticism. We shall therefore take a look at how it is done.

How do you compose an essay based on Toulmin model? Formulate the statement that you intend to defend. Provide evidence to support it. Then use the factors we talk about below. As an alternative, you can use information from a custom essay writing service that guarantees a good grade. Not everyone is really gifted at writing well-organized texts.

The Six Parts of The Toulmin Argument

The structure of Toulmin argumentative essay is slightly more complex than in other types of papers.

Think of this section as the main idea behind the whole argument. The claim can be divided into five following categories:

• definitions,
• strategies.

This is the part dealing with the answer to the question, “What is the author trying to prove?”.

The arguments are referred to as the basis for the claim. This is everything that the statement is referring to. It can be statistics, facts, evidence, expert opinions, or public attitudes. At this point, the following issue arises: “What is the author trying to demonstrate his point with?”. This is the body where the connection between the data and the argument is established.

Warrants are assumptions that show how and why the available data results in the claim. It gives credibility to the latter. In addition, it is often common knowledge for both the author and the audience, so in most cases, it is not expressed literally but only implied. The guiding question for determining the warrant of an argument has to be asked, “Why does the author draw this conclusion from the data?”.

Warrant Based Generalization

In the simplest Toulmin essays, the generalization essentially summarizes the common knowledge that applies to each specific case. Due to its simplicity, this technique is also used in public speaking as well as in Toulmin model essay.

Warrant Based on Analogy

An argument by analogy is an argument that is made by extrapolating information from one case to another. This is because they share many characteristics. Therefore, an argument by analogy is also very common.

Warrant Based on Sign

It is a matter of one thing deriving from something else. So one thing indicates the existence of another.

Warrant Based on Causality

The relationship between phenomena in which one major thing called the cause, given certain circumstances, brings about another thing called the effect.

Warrant Based on Authority

It is a reference to the views of persons who are recognized or influential in a particular technology or area of activity in society.

Warrant Based on Principle

Values and attitudes are the brightest and most important factors brought in argumentation. They can equally facilitate the achievement of mutual understanding, make it more difficult, and initially block the development of dialogue.

These are extensions aimed at reinforcing the statement expressed in the introduction. Such support should be used when the grounds themselves are not sufficiently persuasive to the readers and listeners.

It limits the credibility of the claim or describes the conditions under which such a claim is true. If the argument does not assume the existence of another opinion, it will be regarded as feeble. If you struggle to conceive of a contrary view, then writing the rebuttal may seem difficult. We advise you to read through the examples.

These can be words or phrases showing the author’s degree of confidence in the statement, namely: likely, possible, impossible, and unconditional.

The first three elements are considered essential to practical argumentation, while the last three are not always indispensable. An argument described in this way in a counter argument essay reveals its strength and limitations. This is the way it should be. There should be no argument that seems stronger than it is or applies more broadly than it is intended to. The point is not to outplay or defeat every counter-argument, but to get as close to the truth or a suitable solution as we are capable of. Once you have familiarized yourself with the process, you may find it complicated; however, don’t get frustrated and use an additional argumentative essay writing service to create a proper sample.

Sample of a Toulmin Argument Model

The following example of body paragraphs is for you to consider:

People should probably have firearms.

• Claim: People should probably have firearms.
• Grounds: People want to be protected.
• Warrant: Self-defense with a firearm is much more effective.
• Backing: Research shows that firearms owners are less likely to be robbed.
• Rebuttal: Not everyone should have access to firearms. Children and people with intellectual disabilities, for example, should not own firearms.
• Qualifier: The percentage of the population with intellectual health illnesses is much lower than that of the average human. The phrase ” probably” in the claim’s wording is a qualifier.

Essay Which Shows Toulmin Method

So why don’t we put all six points into practice and write a good argumentative essay to enhance understanding?

There is an age-old question of the 21st century. However, are current games more harmful or beneficial? To answer it as objectively as possible, one must rely on biology and psychology. Researchers at the University of Central Florida have proven that taking a short break from work to play a video game is far more effective in relieving stress than inactivity with total gadget avoidance and even meditation. Video games can be educational and informative. A popular stereotype is that games are bad for you. They overload the brain or are just a waste of time. Nonsense, there are plenty of benefits to be gained from gameplay if you know the limits.

Play is a way of making the brain stimulated. Games contribute to the socialization of people. Multiplayer games teach social interaction, trust, dialogue, group work, leadership, and management skills. It turns out that those who spend a lot of leisure on a PC or console solve difficult tasks easier. Attention to detail and the speed of brain and eye reactions, accelerated interaction between them, muscle response – all these things are trained to the highest degree. To do this kind of training in real life without threatening your health, you have to try very hard.

Researchers at the Open University of Catalonia have found that video games can positively affect memory, solve difficult issues, build algorithms, and improve attention span and other cognitive abilities of the brain. They stated that video game enthusiasts have an increase in the right side of the hippocampus, which is responsible for memory, over time. Studies have also shown their effectiveness in second language acquisition, learning math, and science. This is potentially good news for pupils, students, and the millions of people who love to play.

In addition, video games have changed significantly in recent years; they have become more complex, realistic, and socially oriented. Although video games have a pure entertainment status, their popularity has been deployed in the service of medicine with the aim of increasing patient health motivation.

Are all computer games completely harmless, and are they a great form of leisure? When it comes to the harms of computer games, they are mainly associated with excessive use. Taking a break will reduce the negative effects. To label them as “bad”, “violent”, and “aggressive” is to overlook many aspects inherent in modern games. People choose games with their advantages and disadvantages depending on their own inner motivation.

Don’t underestimate the importance of computer games as a stress reliever after a stressful day. It’s important to be able to distract yourself and just relax. And joining a virtual world is one of the easiest and most effective ways to escape from external problems for a while.

Most people who have experienced gaming either perceive the activity in a negative or a positive way. The indifferent ones, by and large, are few.

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Toulmin Essay Outline With Examples: How to Write

If you are a college student, you have surely faced different tasks. Some of them are more complicated, others less, but the only thing that unites them is the necessity to follow the requirements. Considering specific types, genres, and academic writing methods , it is inevitable to pay due attention to the Toulmin model essay as an innovative way to analyze the information and express your ideas on the topic.

Basically, the Toulmin format is quite simple, as it is concentrated on building strong arguments that correspond to logical patterns. Consequently, students get an opportunity to emphasize their ideas in the most professional and impressive way. This technique is the most commonly used for argumentative essays, but it can sometimes be applied to comparison papers and other similar assignments.

If you look through several Toulmin argument essay examples , you will be excited to notice a tendency: the texts are based on the evidence and counter-arguments.  Additionally, it is necessary to mention that every paper should include six basic components that have been originally specified by the philosopher Stephen Toulmin.

Toulmin Essay Outline: Parts to Be Included

Primarily to the beginning of the writing process, you should analyze the topic. If you have ever come across the Toulmin model example essay, you could have noticed that it starts with the outline . As a student, you know that an excellent plan is halfway to success. Therefore, start with the extended outline , which can sometimes be a part of your writing assignment.

There are different approaches to this part of the process, so you can choose the most suitable and preferable one. No matter if you choose the graphical or word format, it should be short, logical, and concise. Additionally, when following the Toulmin outline examples, you should mention three parts of the paper:

• Introduction. Irrespective of the writing approach you choose, a quality introduction may help you succeed with the task. It is indispensable to take into account the Toulmin model template, starting your outline with the claim. Besides, a catchy hook and a concise Toulmin thesis are necessary.
• Body. Working on the outline , you should not write extended sentences. Instead, mention the key ideas you will use to present desired facts. In these paragraphs, pay due attention to the Toulmin argument structure, which is the basis for the body part. Here, you need to forget about the traditional academic paper format and immerse yourself in the new scheme, which resembles research analysis.
• Conclusion. This is the last Toulmin paragraph that should be properly written. Keep in mind that the quality of your essay will depend on your ability to interpret the data you have mentioned in the body. Do not introduce any new information, but rather give hints about the areas for future research.

How to Write a Toulmin Essay Outline

If you have occasionally got a task to craft an essay that shows the Toulmin method, this article is exactly what you need. Follow the guidelines and make sure you skip none of the points:

• Claim. Before you start working on this point, you need to estimate the variety of Toulmin essay topics and opt for the one that appeals to you. Now you are ready to make a claim. It is also known as a thesis, which emphasizes the idea or concept you will discuss further in the paper. It should be short, logical, and concise, referring to the vital information and specific presumptions. Here is one of the most effective claims we have found in one Toulmin essay example: "Medical resources in the United States should be accessible for free."
• Data. Once you have made a statement, you need to provide the audience with the relevant data that proves your point of view. For example, "According to the statistical information, in the previous year, the citizens received % of free medical resources." Search the web and find the Toulmin argument sample that corresponds to your topic, as it will help you present solid arguments and convincing facts.
• Warrants. As specified in the Toulmin method example essay, these are the connections between the thesis and the other information mentioned in the body. Check out an impressive example of the warrant, "The more people get free access to medical resources, the healthier the nation will be."
• Qualifiers. This is the crucial point that is frequently known as an alternative point. Qualifiers are the statements that limit the validity of your thesis statement. For instance, "Apart from the access to medical resources, eating habits, physical activity, and some other factors may influence people's health and well-being."
• Rebuttal. It has been mentioned in a Toulmin model examples essay that this point is aimed at denying the thesis statement you have previously made, e.g., "The access to medical resources is not the only way to influence the health state."
• Backing. This is the final and the most significant part of the paper, the purpose of which is to answer the rebuttal. "Although access to medical resources is not the only factor that may impact human health, it is undeniably the crucial one."

Extra Tips and Recommendations for Creating an Excellent Paper

An impeccable outline and detailed analysis are the basic items you need for the success of your paper. Check out a flawless Toulmin analysis example essay to learn innovative techniques and helpful methods that will draw you closer to the desired result.

• Think logically, critically, and creatively.
• Mind the structure of the paper.
• Use relevant facts and up-to-date information only.
• Ask for professional help in writing essay outline if a single Toulmin argument example does not help.

50 Argumentative Essay Topics

Illustration by Catherine Song. ThoughtCo. 

• M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
• B.A., History, Armstrong State University

An argumentative essay requires you to decide on a topic and argue for or against it. You'll need to back up your viewpoint with well-researched facts and information as well. One of the hardest parts is deciding which topic to write about, but there are plenty of ideas available to get you started. Then you need to take a position, do some research, and present your viewpoint convincingly.

Choosing a Great Argumentative Essay Topic

Students often find that most of their work on these essays is done before they even start writing. This means that it's best if you have a general interest in your subject. Otherwise, you might get bored or frustrated while trying to gather information. You don't need to know everything, though; part of what makes this experience rewarding is learning something new.

It's best if you have a general interest in your subject, but the argument you choose doesn't have to be one that you agree with.

The subject you choose may not necessarily be one you are in full agreement with, either. You may even be asked to write a paper from the opposing point of view. Researching a different viewpoint helps students broaden their perspectives. 

Ideas for Argument Essays

Sometimes, the best ideas are sparked by looking at many different options. Explore this list of possible topics and see if a few pique your interest. Write those down as you come across them, then think about each for a few minutes.

Which would you enjoy researching? Do you have a firm position on a particular subject? Is there a point you would like to make sure you get across? Did the topic give you something new to think about? Can you see why someone else may feel differently?

List of 50 Possible Argumentative Essay Topics

A number of these topics are rather controversial—that's the point. In an argumentative essay , opinions matter, and controversy is based on opinions. Just make sure your opinions are backed up by facts in the essay.   If these topics are a little too controversial or you don't find the right one for you, try browsing through persuasive essay and speech topics  as well.

• Is global climate change  caused by humans?
• Is the death penalty effective?
• Is the U.S. election process fair?
• Is torture ever acceptable?
• Should men get paternity leave from work?
• Are school uniforms beneficial?
• Does the U.S. have a fair tax system?
• Do curfews keep teens out of trouble?
• Is cheating out of control?
• Are we too dependent on computers?
• Should animals be used for research?
• Should cigarette smoking be banned?
• Are cell phones dangerous?
• Are law enforcement cameras an invasion of privacy?
• Do we have a throwaway society ?
• Is child behavior better or worse than it was years ago?
• Should companies market to children?
• Should the government have a say in our diets?
• Does access to condoms prevent teen pregnancy?
• Should members of Congress have term limits?
• Are actors and professional athletes paid too much?
• Are CEOs paid too much?
• Should athletes be held to high moral standards?
• Do violent video games cause behavior problems?
• Should creationism be taught in public schools?
• Are beauty pageants exploitative ?
• Should English be the official language of the United States?
• Should the racing industry be forced to use biofuels?
• Should the alcohol-drinking age be increased or decreased?
• Should everyone be required to recycle?
• Is it okay for prisoners to vote (as they are in some states)?
• Should same-sex marriage be legalized in more countries?
• Are there benefits to attending a single-sex school ?
• Does boredom lead to trouble?
• Should schools be in session year-round ?
• Does religion cause war?
• Should the government provide health care?
• Should abortion be illegal?
• Should more companies expand their reproductive health benefits for employees?
• Is homework harmful or helpful?
• Is the cost of college too high?
• Is college admission too competitive?
• Should euthanasia be illegal?
• Should the federal government legalize marijuana use nationally ?
• Should rich people be required to pay more taxes?
• Should schools require foreign language or physical education?
• Is affirmative action fair?
• Is public prayer okay in schools?
• Are schools and teachers responsible for low test scores?
• Is greater gun control a good idea?

How to Craft a Persuasive Argument

After you've decided on your essay topic, gather evidence to make your argument as strong as possible. Your research could even help shape the position your essay ultimately takes. As you craft your essay, remember to utilize persuasive writing techniques , such as invoking emotional language or citing facts from authoritative figures. 

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How to Write an Argumentative Essay

Table of contents

• 1 What Is an Argumentative Essay?
• 2 Rhetorical Devices in Argumentative Writing
• 3.1 Argumentative Essay Thesis Statement
• 4.1 Aristotelian
• 4.2 Toulmin
• 4.3 Rogerian
• 5 Importance of Argumentative Essay Outline
• 6 Implementation of Counterarguments
• 7.1 Choose the Topic or Define your Prompt
• 7.2 Make Up Your Mind
• 7.3 Consider your Target Audience
• 7.4 Find Accurate Facts
• 7.5 Write a Draft
• 7.6 Edit and Proofread your Paper
• 8 25 Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas
• 9 Argumentative Essay Example

Argumentative essays empower students to voice their opinions while engaging in a dynamic exchange of ideas with their peers. Within its very essence lies a transformative opportunity for self-expression, blending the realms of reason and creativity into a harmonious symphony.

Yet, the path to crafting stellar argumentative essays transcends the mere presentation of evidence. It necessitates delving into the depths of extensive research, unearthing the fundamental framework and prerequisites that underpin this intellectual pursuit.

At the end of this article, you will have learned:

• The significance of starting with the basic theory as a solid foundation for crafting good argumentative essays.
• The importance of supporting arguments with well-researched evidence to establish the accuracy and validity of your claims.
• An overview of different types of argumentative essay structures, such as Сlassical, Rogerian, and Toulmin, with brief explanations of their characteristics.
• Collecting and utilizing substantial evidence effectively is necessary to build persuasive arguments throughout the essay.
• Good argumentative essays often focus on literature as a primary subject for exploration and analysis.

What Is an Argumentative Essay?

It is wise to begin with the fundamental principles whenever possible. Argumentative academic essays are a great way to voice your thoughts on a hot-button issue and convince your audience that you’re right. The point is to show that what you’re saying is accurate and that others should follow your lead by presenting proof to back up your statements.

Literary works are often the focus of good argumentative essays. In an argumentative research essay, you should remember to gather persuasive facts, craft compelling arguments, and use these to back up your thesis and win over your readers. A well-written argumentative essay will have the following traits:

• Clear thesis statement: Argumentative essays have a clear and concise thesis statement summarising the writer’s main point or opinion.
• Controversial topic: It’s about a subject that makes people have different opinions and arguments, which leads to intellectual conversations.
• Arguments based on evidence: An argumentative essay uses logical thinking and strong evidence to support the main points and convince the reader.
• Research-oriented: It requires further research and exploration of credible sources collecting evidence, statistics, facts, and examples that reinforce the writer’s argument.
• Counterargument consideration: An argumentative essay acknowledges opposing viewpoints and counterarguments, addressing them to strengthen the overall argument and demonstrate a well-rounded understanding of the topic.
• Organization and structure: It has an introduction, body paragraphs with topic sentences, supporting proof, and a conclusion summarising the main points.
• Persuasive language and rhetoric: Argumentative essays use methods like logical appeals (logos), emotional appeals (pathos), and ethical appeals (ethos) to persuade the reader that the writer’s point of view is correct.
• Clarity and coherence: It stays clear and makes sense throughout, using transition words and other devices to ensure ideas and lines flow smoothly into each other.
• Critical thinking and deep analysis: An argumentative essay encourages critical thinking by comparing and contrasting different points of view, weighing the facts, and making well-reasoned decisions.
• Audience awareness: It considers the target audience’s knowledge, values, and beliefs and adjusts the arguments and language to engage and convince the readers.

Rhetorical Devices in Argumentative Writing

A strategy for persuading the reader is the rhetorical technique. This technique helps you appeal to your audience’s emotions and convince your opponent to think your way and see your perspectives even. The great thing about using rhetorical devices in your argumentative writing is that it works for written academic essays and your speaking. Remember that you can purchase an argumentative essay already written. Most argumentative essay writing services frequently employ this style of writing. Let’s discuss rhetorical devices in detail.

Aristotle states three basic types of rhetorical devices: logos, ethos, and pathos. His triangle begins with logos, the first part of the triangle. This method appeals to the listener’s or reader’s sense of logic and reason and prompts them to take action in response to the argument presented — our ability to think critically through the logic behind an idea.

The second device is ethos. Ethos is used to establish the author’s credibility and stature. This increases the likelihood that your audience will take your statements seriously. People always pay attention to a person’s educational background and social standing. You can demonstrate your competence by using this strategy.

Finally, we have pathos. Its purpose is to make the listener or viewer feel something. However, here, emotional appeal is not necessary. It may be rage, impatience, or sympathy, but those are the emotions the writer intended to stir up.

By keeping these strategies in mind and mastering their application, you may ensure that your arguments will be as persuasive as possible and that no counterarguments will be raised. This is the main point of any argumentative article.

It takes a lot of time and effort to write an argumentative essay. Finding a custom essay writing firm like PapersOwl.com that can provide support and direction throughout the process is helpful. The organization will assign you a writer who can complete your order satisfactorily. Tips and suggestions on organizing your argument, creating compelling arguments, and ensuring that your essay convinces readers are also available.

Basic Structure of Argumentative Essay

An argumentative essay’s framework deviates slightly from other types of essay writing . The essay can be broken down into three sections: the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. However, the specifics of what goes into each section will vary substantially from one job to the next. You need to know a few things if you want to know how to start an argumentative essay. Let’s discuss the fundamentals of essay structure that will make it easier to compose an argumentative paper.

It is essential to consider the structure of argumentative essays before beginning to write an argumentative essay. Create an outline for your argumentative essay to help you organize your thoughts while you gather source materials. The introduction is the opening section of an expository essay. The purpose of the introduction paragraph is to familiarize the reader with the work’s subject matter and provide background information. This section of the text is also meant to hook the reader’s interest and encourage them to continue exploring the piece.

There is a good reason why this section is called the body paragraph. This paragraph presents the essential concepts and elaborates on them in an argumentative piece of academic writing. This is the evidence section, where you can lay it all out for your opponent and try to win them over. Create a new paragraph for each central point you want to make. Three body paragraphs are the typical length for the main section.

Now for the conclusion and structure of argumentative essays. Here, you’ll need to detail the findings you made during your research. The final results should always align with the expectations outlined in the initial sections.

Argumentative Essay Thesis Statement

Beginning an argumentative essay with a well-developed thesis statement is a great way to grab the reader’s interest. It’s one sentence that can serve as a roadmap for the rest of the text and simplify things. Naturally, at this point, you need to know what you are making, and your defined thesis statement needs some fine-tuning. There are three key points to take away from this, all of which can be used in argumentative writing.

• Start with a query. Your instructor may give you a question to answer. If you can’t find a suitable alternative, you must create one yourself.

Example: What impact has the internet had on the tech industry?

• You should respond to that query right away. Applying the same reasoning as before, we find:

Example: In the technological sector, for instance, the internet has spurred exponential growth and opened up countless new avenues for exploration.

• Finally, make sure your thesis statement is spot-on. Simply put, you need to modify it to fit in with the rest of your essay. We’ll give you the one that follows the same pattern as the one up top.

Example: Internet-enabled devices that are both practical and beneficial to users have become a primary priority for the world’s largest technology companies.

The structure of argumentative essays plays a vital role in presenting a clear and organized flow of ideas, enabling the writer to effectively convey their arguments and persuade the audience.

Types of Arguments in Argumentative Essay

The allure of the argumentative essay format is undeniable, captivating both readers and writers alike. It provides a structure for you to express your point of view and persuade others with the compelling truth it contains. However, it is essential to note that this format has many structural and content restrictions. In this section, you’ll learn three effective methods for constructing arguments, giving you the tools to sidestep heated discussions. If you feel this is too much work, remember that you can always buy a college essay and free up some of your time. Brilliant minds have struggled endlessly throughout history to develop viable methods of argumentation. We aim to break down these persuasive strategies so that you can use them in your writing process with complete assurance.

Aristotelian

We’ve told you about the main ways Aristotle used rhetoric. But now we’ll add the framework of how argumentative essays are put together. Aristotle used reduction to the point of folly as one of his tricks. With this method, you have to start from the opposite side. You say that your chosen theory is wrong, and then you build on it to the point where it makes no sense. The reader will then realize that such a statement is ridiculous and be convinced by your original point. Aristotle explained his method by saying that an idea can’t simultaneously be true and false.

According to the designer of the Toulmin model, bringing in preexisting notions is more important than proving a new hypothesis through argumentation. The reasoning model comprises six parts: the claim, grounds, warrant, qualifier, rebuttal, and backing.

>Remember, a Toulmin essay is about logical reasoning and clear, structured arguments. Make sure each part of your essay contributes to supporting your main claim.

The Rogerian model also has four steps. Again, you can say these repeatedly as many times as you want. The Rogerian argument is based on the idea that both sides should be as tolerant and respectful as possible. Here are the steps that will help you write an argumentative essay well and back up your point of view. What do you do?

• Talk about the opposing points of view and what’s good about them.
• Find flaws in those points of view
• Share your point of view.
• Try to find a way to solve the problem.

The body of an argumentative essay will have anywhere from three to five body paragraphs, and you should use as many clear points and facts as possible. Keep in mind that each paragraph is a separate part of the essay. So, when you write an argumentative essay, each section needs its case and evidence.

Importance of Argumentative Essay Outline

The outline is an integral component that should be present in argumentative essay writing, regardless of the specific topic or subject. In the process, you will also need a strong  thesis statement that will set the direction and focus of your writer’s position.

Also, don’t forget that the main argument must be present in the plan, and you must start with a strong opening statement. This is important for all papers, but even more with argumentative essays.  Due to the fact, they are based on arguments that will vividly support your opinion.

The key components of an argumentative essay outline template include:

Introductory paragraph

• Hook: Start with a thought-provoking statement or statistic.
• Background information: Provide brief and necessary context on the issue.
• Thesis statement: Clearly state your stance on the topic and preview different types of arguments.

Body Paragraphs

• Topic sentence: Introduce the first argument that supports your thesis.
• Explanation: Provide argument details, including reasoning examples.
• Rebuttal: Address a potential counterargument and refute it with strong reasoning and evidence.
• Concluding sentence: Summarize the main points of your own argument and transition to the next paragraph.

Argumentative essay conclusion

• Restate the thesis: Emphasize the importance of your grounds.
• Summarize the main points.
• Concluding thoughts: Close with compelling statements.

Argumentative essay outline examples are important because they provide a clear and practical demonstration of how to organize and direct the details of the work. Below, you can explore valuable examples for writing an argumentative essay.

When you look at an argumentative essay outline example, everything can seem overwhelming. However, breaking down the process into manageable steps allows you to write an argumentative essay with confidence and clarity. Constructing a common essay outline will help you identify any errors or sections that need to be improved. By addressing opposing points, you can strengthen your body paragraph and demonstrate a clear point of view. It takes center stage, emphasizing its pivotal role in shaping the overall position.

• Introduction

It is a critical section that sets the tone for the entire argumentative essay. This part serves as the opening statement.

It can take various forms in an outline, such as a surprising fact, a rhetorical question, a compelling anecdote, or a relevant quotation. It serves to pique the reader’s curiosity and create a strong initial impression.

• Background Information

This section presents the necessary context for the reader to understand the significance of the subject matter. Consider including relevant historical, social, or factual details that give your audience a broader understanding of the topic’s relevance and importance. It must not reveal any of the main arguments or anything similar.

• Thesis Statement 

It is the final sentence in this part, which acts as a guide for readers. A powerful thesis formulation should be specific and serve as the foundation for the rest of your essay. It allows you to make claims and effectively argue your point. The thesis statement needs to be based on sound logic.

✏️Example:

How would our world look without smartphones?

In this section, you will delve into the main arguments and counterpoints surrounding your claim. This is where you present your case and provide supporting evidence to validate your position.

Smartphones have been responsible for many new introductions and better quality of life.

The claim, serving as the central argument, forms the very foundation of your entire essay. To ensure the excellence of your essay, your claims must be robust and well-founded.

• Arguments and Counterarguments

Arguments strengthen your position by providing supporting evidence and logical reasoning, reinforcing the validity of your thesis. They help you build a convincing case and persuade the reader to agree with your standpoint.

Counterpoints allow you to address potential objections or criticisms. By acknowledging and refuting opposing viewpoints, you demonstrate intellectual honesty and fairness.

• Supporting Evidence

In the text, it is important to support your arguments with evidence and facts that support them. Different types of evidence can be used to support your initial thesis statement. If you can’t find any evidence or you have a hard time, you can use the “ write my argumentative essay ” option, which is simple and will help you. Careful selection and presentation of evidence increase the overall credibility and impact of your essay.

Smartphones have made our life much better, and they are something we rely on every single day and we will indefinitely.

To write a  valid text, you always need to know how to start and how to end. As always, you need a strong introductory paragraph, body sections, and an argumentative essay conclusion , which has a huge role in all of this. Keep your conclusions short and to the point, too. A concise conclusion is more effective in making a lasting impression. It should present new ideas or information. Its purpose is to conclude your essay and leave the reader satisfied. Research your topic thoroughly and gather relevant facts and information to support your arguments.

After all the facts and pieces of evidence you can see above, we can deduce that smartphones are a huge threat to humankind.

Implementation of Counterarguments

When writing a powerful argumentative text, the use of counterarguments in an essay emerges as opposing viewpoints that challenge your arguments. Mastering the fundamental techniques to address them is key. It may seem counterintuitive to introduce opposing arguments, fearing they may undermine your credibility. However, skillfully highlighting their weaknesses can work in your favor.

Firstly, incorporating the opposing arguments showcases your professionalism and deep understanding of the topic. Secondly, it provides an opportunity to demonstrate the superiority of your claims over opposing viewpoints.

When introducing a paragraph with a counterargument in your argumentative essay, consider using phrases such as:

• Critics think that…
• The other side of the argument is given by…
• There are compelling arguments in favor of the opposition…

Once you have presented the opposing position, counter it with evidence supporting your beliefs. Engage in a respectful yet compelling discussion, meticulously refuting the opposing position’s arguments. Your objective is to demonstrate the strength and truthfulness of your arguments. Allocate a dedicated paragraph within the main section of your argumentative essay to explore this idea.

This process demonstrates intellectual rigor and a comprehensive understanding of the topic. Moreover, you fortify your position as a persuasive writer capable of effectively addressing and overcoming counterarguments, thereby solidifying the validity of your claims.

Tips for Argumentative Writing

Here is one section you will want to read and know more about. The argumentative essay writing tips here are helpful and can make this task more manageable. Your teachers have used these tips, and they are obtained from them.

Choose the Topic or Define your Prompt

One of the most essential tips and things you can do here is to choose good argumentative essay topics. This can have a significant effect on the overall writing. Topics for argumentative essays possess a wide variety. You will want to write an argumentative essay like that, and you will want to make it sound better. If this is impossible, you must write on the assigned argumentative essay topic, which is much more complex. Here are some interesting argumentative essay topics to inspire you:

Two-sided Question: Is using technology in the classroom beneficial or detrimental to students’ learning outcomes?

One-sided Question:

• Should the use of cell phones be allowed in schools?
• Is social media more harmful than beneficial to society?
• Is homeschooling a better alternative to traditional schooling?

Make Up Your Mind

Here’s a tip that can help you more than you think. You need to make a decision and figure out what the facts and reasoning are. If you want to write about the first example above:

• If you like traditional books, discuss what you admire about them and give reasons to back up your claim.
• If you like e-books, look for opinions about this type of media. If you don’t have time, you can ask someone to write a philosophy paper for you, and the job will be done in minutes, not days.

It can take a few days to write an excellent argumentative essay.

Consider your Target Audience

This is not a standard piece of advice. But it does matter. If you are a business of professional essay writers writing for college students, you need to use different reasons than if you’re writing for seniors. Always think about who you’re writing for and how to make the text better for them. Remember that you have to use general reasons if you don’t know who your audience is. Ensure you do a lot of study and have access to all relevant sources to ensure you have everything you need to get the desired result. Also, because of the stress of deadlines set by professors, many students find it helpful to purchase college essays from experts to ensure they are doing good work. This lets them get the desired grade and can be a significant part of their school performance.

Find Accurate Facts

All the information you need to support your argument must be accurate and not slanted. You’ll need to use numbers, stories, studies, surveys, and more here. Don’t use ”lost” information that is useless. If you do that, a writer competing with you can make your writing look less accurate and essential. If you find it hard to keep up with your writing, hire a custom essay writing company to do it for you.

Write a Draft

You must write the whole text here, but it doesn’t have to be finished. You must use all the steps and facts you want to include in the paper. But don’t look at or try to write all the lines because you’ll have to show them to the teacher. The draft is your essay’s first lesson, so it needs to be improved, checked for details, and finished. The professor will only be given the second or third version. You must give background knowledge and everything else you can think of.

Edit and Proofread your Paper

The last tip, which is also the last step, is to proofread your paper, look for problems, and fix them. The goal is to make your work look good enough for a professor or teacher to read. For this step to be done right, you should always use all the ways you can. Someone you know can help. You can get help online and do a lot more. The result should be a beautiful paper precisely how you want it to be. There can’t be any mistakes, mistakes, or other things.

25 Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

Let’s showcase the top concepts that might serve as springboards for further thought, writing, and other creative endeavors. The importance of carefully selecting your writing surface cannot be overstated. This is the superior choice that all expert essayists advocate. If you have a topic you don’t like, you may always buy an argumentative essay and finish the task quickly. It is a prudent course of action. How will you put pen to paper on such a topic if you don’t even care? Whatever the case, we’ve compiled 25 argumentative essay prompts that we think you’ll find helpful.

• Is animal testing fair?
• Are teen beauty pageants justified?
• Is the ban on smoking in public places undemocratic?
• Should social media platforms be banned from collecting their users’ data?
• Should companies have to hire human workers overusing autonomous machines?
• Should phones be banned from vehicles?
• Has the internet made society better?
• Should parents limit screen time for kids?
• Is the use of nuclear energy a viable solution to address climate change?
• Should school uniforms be mandatory in public schools?
• Is it justifiable to use military force to intervene in foreign conflicts?
• Is online learning as effective as traditional classroom education?
• Should marijuana be legalized for recreational use?
• Should parents have the right to homeschool their children?
• Is social media contributing to increased loneliness and isolation?
• Should college athletes be paid for their participation?
• Is the use of animals for scientific research justified?
• Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
• Is censorship necessary in the digital age?
• Should the government provide universal basic income?
• Is using animals for entertainment, such as in circuses or zoos, ethical?
• Should the use of plastic bags be banned to protect the environment?
• Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be labeled on food products?
• Is it fair to implement affirmative action in college admissions?
• Should euthanasia be legalized?

Argumentative Essay Example

College sports generate billions of dollars in revenue for universities and the NCAA, yet the athletes receive no compensation beyond scholarships. This is an unjust system that needs to change. College athletes deserve payment for their hard work and dedication to their sport.

Firstly, college sports have become a big business. These athletes are essentially employees of their schools, bringing in millions of dollars in revenue each year. It is only fair that they receive a portion of this money. Without the athletes, there would be no college sports.

Secondly, many college athletes come from low-income backgrounds and struggle to make ends meet. While they may receive scholarships, this does not cover all their expenses, such as food and housing. These student-athletes often have to work part-time jobs in addition to their athletic and academic commitments to make ends meet. This is not a fair or sustainable system. Opponents may argue that scholarships are sufficient compensation for college athletes.

However, scholarships do not cover all expenses or provide any compensation for the athletes’ time and effort. Furthermore, only some athletes receive full scholarships, and even those who do may need more to cover their expenses.

Another argument against paying college athletes is that it would create an unfair system where only certain athletes or sports receive compensation. However, this can quickly be addressed by creating a system that distributes funds fairly across all sports and athletes.

In conclusion, college athletes deserve to be paid for their hard work and dedication to their sport. The current system is unjust and unsustainable. Paying college athletes would not only be fair, but it would also help to alleviate financial struggles for many student-athletes. It is time for universities and the NCAA to step up and do the right thing.

Here is our analysis of the argumentative essay sample:

Introduction:

• The introduction begins with a strong statement that college sports generate significant revenue, but athletes receive no compensation beyond scholarships.
• It highlights the unjust nature of the current system, setting the tone for the essay.

Thesis Statement:

• The thesis statement clearly states the author’s position that college athletes deserve compensation for their hard work and dedication to their sport.
• It sets the essay’s main argument, indicating the subsequent body paragraphs’ direction.
• The first body paragraph highlights the financial success of college sports and how athletes contribute to generating revenue.
• It emphasizes the athletes’ role as employees of their schools and argues for their fair share of the generated income.
• The second body paragraph focuses on many college athletes’ financial struggles, emphasizing the insufficiency of scholarships to cover all expenses.
• It establishes a case for the athletes’ need for additional financial support.
• The third body paragraph anticipates and addresses potential counterarguments, refuting the notion that scholarships are enough compensation and highlighting the disparities in scholarship coverage.
• It argues for including all athletes in the compensation system to address potential unfairness.

Conclusion:

• The conclusion restates the thesis and summarizes the main points discussed in the body paragraphs.
• It reaffirms the unjust and unsustainable nature of the current system.
• The conclusion emphasizes the potential benefits of paying college athletes, including fairness and alleviating financial struggles.
• It concludes with a call to action for universities and the NCAA to make the necessary changes.

In sum, this essay makes a compelling case for compensating collegiate athletes. It has an engaging introduction, a well-stated thesis, and logical body paragraphs that support the main point. A logical conclusion summarizes the main points and persuasively calls for change while acknowledging and refuting the opposing views. The essay is illustrative because it makes a compelling case for rewarding college athletes by providing supporting evidence and logic for its claims.

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