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ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY
Copyright @ 2006 Bogazici University SFL 1 of 6
ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY
Definition Refuting opposing arguments
Organization Language
Supporting our ideas Sample argumentative essay
Definition: In this kind of essay, we not only give information but also
present an argument with the PROS (supporting ideas) and CONS
(opposing ideas) of an argumentative issue. We should clearly take our
stand and write as if we are trying to persuade an opposing audience to
adopt new beliefs or behavior. The primary objective is to persuade people
to change beliefs that many of them do not want to change.
Choosing an argumentative topic is not an easy task. The topic should be
such that
• it should be narrowed down
X Marijuana should be considered illegal. (Not a good topic because it is
too general. In some medical cases, marijuana is prescribed by the
doctors and the patients are encouraged to use it in case of suffering
from too much pain)
√ Selling and using marijuana in public places should be considered illegal.
• it should contain an argument
X We should decide whether we want a bicycle or a car. (our stand is not
clear: do we support having bicycles or cars?)
√ If we are under the age of 30 and want a healthy life, we should
definitely get a bicycle instead of a car.
X Are you one of those who thinks cheating is not good for students? (a
question cannot be an argument)
√ Cheating helps students learn.
X Considering its geological position, Turkey has an important geopolitical
role in the EU. (facts cannot be arguments)
√ Considering its geopolitical role, we can clearly say that the EU cannot
be without Turkey.
• it should be a topic that can be adequately supported (with
statistics, outside source citations, etc.)
X I feel that writing an argumentative essay is definitely a challenging
task. (feelings cannot be supported; we cannot persuade other
people)