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What is argumentation?
Argumentation is the presentation and elaboration of an argument. Effective argumentation
provokes the audience to think or act differently. To do this, a writer must support his/her
thesis with strong evidence and sound logic.
An argumentative essay states the thesis in the introduction, substantiates the thesis in the body,
and provides a resolution for the reader in the conclusion. This distinct structure presents ideas in
a LOGICAL and CONVINCING manner.
According to theorist Stephen Toulmin, an argument can be divided into its claims and grounds:
argument = __claims__ + __grounds__
(opinion, thesis)
__reasons__ __evidence __
(introduced by “because”) (five types*)
All basic arguments have a few key elements as shown in Toulmin’s model above; however,
when space and time allow for it, all six elements of a good argument should be included.
Writers can substantially strengthen their essays by including these elements:
Six Elements of a Good Argument
Thesis – This should be clear, argumentative, and qualified if necessary. Beware of making
broad generalizations about “all” or “none” since these are difficult to support.
Personal Background – This describes the writer’s reasons for debating the issue. It explains
why the issue is interesting or important to the writer.
What is a thesis statement?
Traditionally, a thesis statement consists of one sentence and appears last in the
introduction. It’s the most important sentence in your paper because it identifies
your topic and states your position on it.
Example of an unfocused, illogical thesis statement – The national government doesn’t
want to fund stem cell research because it’s immoral, but they should because they fund
other immoral things as well.
Example of a clear, specific, logical thesis statement – The national government should
provide federal funds for stem cell research because it will help those who suffer from
chronic illnesses and allow the field of science to expand.
Writing an Argumentative Essay