The Difference between Discursive & Argumentative Essays

Discursive essays investigate and analyze an argument by offering two or more opposing perspectives.
Argumentative essays investigate and analyze a topic by offering one perspective. Writers of both essays
should thoroughly research the topic or issue and choose concrete evidence to support these
perspectives. While the style and purpose for each essay vary, both essays require the writer to analyze
and present a controversial topic or issue to the reader with supporting evidence.

Topics and Issues

Discursive essays discuss a topic in a broad and thoughtful way so that readers can easily consider both
or all sides of a topic or issue. Argumentative essays forcefully and with purpose present a set of reasons
why one should adopt this one point of view on an issue or topic. Writers of both essays should structure
their essay in a way that is logical and clear. The topic of a discursive essay may be something like,
“Experiments on animals are neither good nor bad,” or “Insight into the life of George Washington.”
Argumentative topics are typically questions, such as, "Is the death penalty ethical?” or “Do curfews
keep teens out of trouble?” Writers of discursive essays should maintain a formal, third-person
perspective throughout whereas writers of an argumentative essay may use a first-person perspective.

Style

When writing a discursive essay, it is important to establish your opinion on the topic as the writer. The
purpose of a discursive essay is to persuade your readers by exploring and presenting why each view is
either valid or invalid. When writing a discursive essay, it is also important to maintain a neutral stance
throughout to establish an informative and unbiased argument. When writing an argumentative essay,
the writer expresses opinion and uses rhetorical strategies to try to persuade readers. These rhetorical
strategies may include appealing to the reader’s emotions, called pathos, or posing a question of the
reader that has an obvious answer, called a rhetorical question.

Purpose

Discursive essays and argumentative essays can be about any number of topics. Typically, discursive
essays argue ideas about controversial topics such as corporal punishment or stem cell research.
Argumentative essays can also be about controversial topics, but it is not required. Discursive essays are
intended to present an unbiased and objective look of a topic with the goal of presenting a very
balanced discussion of the topic or issue. Argumentative essays are more like a conversation or debate of
a topic where the writer establishes his viewpoint and tries to persuade or educate readers to see or
accept this view point. Unlike discursive essays, argumentative essays may be directed to a particular
audience.

Components

Both discursive and argumentative essays require research to learn about the topic and collect and
gather supporting evidence. An argumentative essay always begins with a claim statement, or thesis
statement, that asserts the viewpoint of the writer. Throughout the body paragraphs, the writer
addresses both sides but refutes one side and proves the other. A counterargument or refutation
paragraph may appear just before the conclusion, presenting the other side's viewpoint but then
refuting it with evidence. A discursive essay begins with an unbiased introduction of the topic or issue.
The body paragraphs should be arranged so that each paragraph analyzes some aspect of the topic or
individual topics if appropriate. Sometimes, in the last body paragraph before the conclusion, the writer
will express an opinion and leave the readers with something to think about.

Important Elements in Writing Argument Essays

In order to write an effective argument essay, a writer should focus on the important elements: a strong
thesis statement, evidence supporting the claim, a counterargument and appropriate writing style.

Thesis Statement

A strong thesis statement serves as the center of an argument essay. A strong thesis statement is
debatable and narrow enough to prove within the constraints of the essay. There are three main types of
claims that can be made within the thesis statement. A claim of definition is made when the writer
challenges the accepted truth of a certain fact. A cause and effect type of claim proposes that one action
or event caused another. Finally, a writer may make a claim proposing a solution to a problem.

Evidence and Rhetoric

In order to make an argument, evidence is needed in order to support the thesis statement. To collect
evidence, writers should research using reliable academic and scholarly sources, and evidence may be
anecdotal, statistical or factual. In addition writers should use rhetoric to support their thesis
statements. This rhetoric usually centers on logical claims, but a student may choose to use emotional or
ethical appeals, depending on the subject area. The University of North Carolina Writing Center
recommends using a professor's preferred mode of rhetoric as a model.

Counterargument

Regardless of the chosen style of rhetoric, an essay should not focus only on the thesis statement's
argument. On the contrary, addressing a counterargument conveys a deeper understanding of the issue.
By acknowledging an opposing viewpoint, the writer may prove more credible. Opposing points of view
also provide a chance to refute the counterargument, or at least to suggest that such evidence might not
be up to date or fully informed. The writer may choose to place the counterargument in one paragraph
or refer to it throughout the essay.

Writing Style

An important element in an argument essay is the writing style. While eloquence is the goal, a student
may write an effective argument essay simply by using good structure. Transitions create flow between
sentences and paragraphs; they also allow the reader to follow the writer's train of thought. Each
paragraph should focus on only one aspect of the argument, clearly stated in a first sentence and proven
in the sentences that follow. Finally, a writer must explain the relevance of any statistic or quote. Never
leave the reader trying to figure out the point.

Important Elements in Writing Argument Essays

Many academic points of view are debatable, or at least have gone through a period of debate,
according to the University of North Carolina. Therefore writing an effective argument essay is integral to
academic success. The aim of academic writing is often to propose and support an argument. In order to
write an effective argument essay, a writer should focus on the important elements: a strong thesis
statement, evidence supporting the claim, a counterargument and appropriate writing style.

Thesis Statement

A strong thesis statement serves as the center of an argument essay. According to the Purdue Online
Writing Lab, a strong thesis statement is debatable and narrow enough to prove within the constraints of
the essay. There are three main types of claims that can be made within the thesis statement. A claim of
definition is made when the writer challenges the accepted truth of a certain fact. A cause and effect
type of claim proposes that one action or event caused another. Finally, a writer may make a claim
proposing a solution to a problem.

Evidence and Rhetoric

In order to make an argument, evidence is needed in order to support the thesis statement. To collect
evidence, writers should research using reliable academic and scholarly sources, and evidence may be
anecdotal, statistical or factual. In addition writers should use rhetoric to support their thesis
statements. This rhetoric usually centers on logical claims, but a student may choose to use emotional or
ethical appeals, depending on the subject area. The University of North Carolina Writing Center
recommends using a professor's preferred mode of rhetoric as a model.

Counterargument

Regardless of the chosen style of rhetoric, an essay should not focus only on the thesis statement's
argument. On the contrary, addressing a counterargument conveys a deeper understanding of the issue.
By acknowledging an opposing viewpoint, the writer may prove more credible. Opposing points of view
also provide a chance to refute the counterargument, or at least to suggest that such evidence might not
be up to date or fully informed. The writer may choose to place the counterargument in one paragraph
or refer to it throughout the essay.

Writing Style

An important element in an argument essay is the writing style. While eloquence is the goal, a student
may write an effective argument essay simply by using good structure. Transitions create flow between
sentences and paragraphs; they also allow the reader to follow the writer's train of thought. Each
paragraph should focus on only one aspect of the argument, clearly stated in a first sentence and proven
in the sentences that follow. Finally, a writer must explain the relevance of any statistic or quote. Never
leave the reader trying to figure out the point.
Key Ideas to Help Write an Argument & Persuasion Essay

Researching a controversial topic and developing an argument provides writers with practice in analysis
and synthesis of information. The argumentative or persuasive essay is a common assignment for both
secondary and college students in various subjects. While persuasive writing requires both research and
opinion, there are writing and organizational techniques students can use to convey a strong message.

Researching a Topic, Developing an Argument

The most important consideration in choosing a topic for a persuasive essay is ensuring it is debatable.
Your research should focus on finding arguments to support both sides of the issue. For example,
research for a persuasive essay about nuclear weapons includes arguments both for and against weapon
development. Once you determine the side you agree with or wish to argue, your position on the issue
forms the basis of your thesis. The thesis clearly states your position on the issue and presents your
organization strategy for the essay.

Writing an Introduction, Finishing with a Conclusion

The first and last paragraphs of your persuasive essay each serve a different purpose in the presentation
of your argument. Your introduction paragraph should include an overview of the topic of the essay
along with reasons the reader should take interest in your argument. The first paragraph introduces the
topic broadly and narrows the focus on your argument until it ends with the thesis statement. The final
paragraph of the essay presents a review of main topics and the central argument of the essay. However,
you should avoid restating information from your essay directly and develop synthesis of your overall
argument.

Developing an Argument through Evidence

Presenting evidence in the form of facts, statistics, quotes and examples provides your reader with
multiple ways to understand your argument. Each body paragraph should focus on one aspect of your
argument and include appropriate evidence. Within the paragraph, you should integrate both evidence
from your research and your analysis of the evidence as it supports your argument. It is also important
to consider arguments from the opposing side of your issue. Presenting the opposition's view allows you
to strengthen your argument by refuting its points and weaknesses.

Drafting the Complete Argument

Once you develop an argument, gather research and craft an introduction, you can work on organizing
your overall essay. One strategy for organization is presenting the strongest argument first so your reader
is immediately persuaded to agree with you. On the other hand, finishing with your strongest evidence is
another strategy that allows you to leave your reader thinking about your strongest point. Additionally,
transitions between sentences within paragraphs are essential to increase the coherence of your
evidence. Transitions between paragraphs create a cohesive argument throughout the essay.

What Is a Lead-in Statement?

In writing, a lead-in statement is the opening of an essay or other piece of writing. This statement is part
of the introductory paragraph and the first thing the audience reads and is thus meant to keep the
reader’s attention.

Purpose

An effective lead-in statement not only captures the reader’s attention, but also allows the writer to
naturally segue into the topic of the paper. Typically, the lead-in statement will relate to the topic at
hand.

Types

There is no one way to write a lead-in statement. This opening sentence can be creative like an
interesting anecdote, a surprising fact that the reader may not know or a relevant mention of a famous
person. There are more conventional ways of writing a lead-in statement, such as writing a very brief
history of the topic or simply stating what the paper is about.

To Avoid

Despite the number of options in writing a lead-in statement, there are several measures not to take in
writing the opening. For example, opening with a definition from the dictionary may not effectively catch
the reader’s attention. While stating the topic is a viable option, it is not recommended to state it as
some variant of “The topic of this essay is...”

Tips for High School Students on Creating Introductions & Conclusions

Writing a compelling essay is a challenging task for high school students. Translating thoughts and
research into an effectively stated argument requires careful attention to detail. While the body of the
essay is crucially important, the introduction and conclusion contribute strongly to the reader's overall
impressions. An effective introduction hooks the reader so he wants to read more about the topic. The
conclusion provides the reader with a final understanding of your argument and stimulates further
thought.

First Impressions

The first paragraph of your essay acts as a foundation for the piece, telling your reader what he can
expect. A strong introduction grabs the reader's attention and inspires him to read on. Use a hook to
catch your reader. It could be a bit of surprising information you discovered while researching your topic.
Maybe it's a short narrative that relates to your topic. It could also be an interesting fact or statistic, an
inspiring quotation or a thought-provoking question. Whatever you choose, make sure it is relevant to
the subject and the argument you are making. The introduction should contain your thesis -- your main
argument -- in one concise sentence.

What to Avoid

Be concise. Create your hook, state your thesis and get to the point. Avoid long, wordy introductions and
repetition. The length of your introduction should relate to the length and complexity of your essay. A
15-page essay might have a two-page introduction, but a four-page paper won't. Avoid using clichés.
Readers will be turned off by expressions they have heard many times before. Don't feel you have to
finish your introduction before writing the body of your essay. You might want to come back to the
introduction to revise it later.

The Conclusion

An effective conclusion leaves a lasting impression. You might include a thought-provoking question or
outline an action that needs to be taken. Think about the significance of your topic -- your conclusion
should communicate why the subject matters to you and your readers. Include some thoughts about the
consequences and larger implications of your argument. If appropriate, recommend a course of action.
Use a relevant quotation or expert opinion to give your conclusion authority. Drive home your point with
a surprising statistic or fact.

What to Avoid

Do not simply repeat your thesis. Summarize with new language and discuss how the points you made in
the body of your essay back up your thesis. Don't introduce entirely new points -- add more insight that
relates to your previous points. As with the introduction, don't be too wordy. For most high school
essays, one well-designed paragraph should be enough. For a longer essay, two or three paragraphs
might be more appropriate.

Paragraph Writing Skills for Beginners

After learning to develop complete sentences, writing a paragraph is the next step in formulating an
essay or story. A paragraph is a group of sentences relating to a single topic. The key components of a
paragraph, particularly as part of an essay, are a topic sentence, evidence, analysis and a concluding
sentence.

Topic Sentence
A topic sentence is generally the first sentence in a paragraph. It presents the central idea of the
paragraph, so it is considered the thesis of the paragraph. The topic sentence of a paragraph relates to
the thesis or overall purpose of the essay. You can write a very explicit topic sentence -- that is, clearly
state the topic of the paragraph -- or allude to the topic. One way to think about developing a topic
sentence is to focus in on a single idea that proves the thesis of the overall essay and state that idea in a
general way.

Evidence

After a topic sentence introduces a general idea for the paragraph, evidence is presented to support your
topic sentence. Evidence is the more specific examples of your central idea. Your evidence can be facts,
quotes, summaries of outside resources or a summary of plot. Evidence from outside sources is
presented as a quote, paraphrase or statistic, and it is drawn from a variety of sources to present
different opinions.

Analysis

Analysis of each piece of evidence allows you to present your idea about why the evidence supports
your topic. You can think of the analysis as your interpretation of the evidence. In structuring the
paragraph, introduce evidence and follow it with a sentence or two of analysis that shows the reader
why your evidence is important. It is important to create a balance between evidence and analysis to
show adequate support for your claims.

Conclusion

The conclusion sentence of a paragraph serves as both a concluding thought about the analysis in the
paragraph and as a transition to the next paragraph. The concluding sentence should not summarize
either the facts or the analysis presented in the paragraph. Instead, this final sentence should help you
further your analysis with one final point on the topic of the paragraph. It should also explain why the
evidence in the paragraph supports the claim of your topic sentence and the overall argument of your
thesis.

How to Write a Discursive Essay

A discursive essay, sometimes called a argument essay, is a critical analysis of a controversial topic that
supports an opinion about that topic. The writer of a discursive essay attempts to present both sides of
an issue, while showing why one side has greater merit. Discursive writing is a good way to learn how to
structure an argument logically and to anticipate and counter the arguments of the other side. These
fundamentals are essential for a good essay.
Introduce a controversial topic in the first paragraph and explain the topic and how you feel about it.

Explain your strongest argument in the second paragraph. This should be the most compelling piece of
evidence that you can support logically to aid your position. Strengthen it with expert opinions, statistics
and real-world examples, but avoid anecdotal claims, especially when writing college essays.

Write supporting paragraphs in descending order of importance. Each paragraph should illustrate a
single argument.

Explain the counterarguments to your essay's thesis. Explain their beliefs and reasoning as completely as
possible. Don't artificially weaken your opponent's arguments. Your essay will be stronger if you
represent the counterarguments fairly.

Explain why you reject the opponent's arguments. Your reasons might be moral, practical or logical. You
may start with a concession statement, admitting that some of the opposing arguments are valid, but
state that you still think your side is right.

Write a conclusion for your discursive essay that acknowledges your opponents' principal argument, and
explain why you don't subscribe to it. For example, if you were writing a paper against the death penalty,
you might say, "I acknowledge that murderers deserve the most severe punishment society has, but I
believe the death penalty should not be used because it can lead to the execution of innocent people."

How to Write a Pros & Cons Essay

A pros and cons essay is a type of persuasive assignment where you discuss both sides of a debatable
issue before revealing your own position. The objective, balanced structure allows audiences to
formulate their own opinions before hearing your final analysis. You can write a good pros and cons
essay by giving fair, equal treatment to both sides of an issue, describing its advantages and
disadvantages with clear, specific research and summarizing your own position in the conclusion.

Choosing a Topic

Because a pros and cons essay involves equal treatment of both sides, topics are usually controversial
and debatable. This type of essay works well for these topics because the structure encourages readers
to carefully weigh both positions as they read. One way to brainstorm topics is to think about issues you
face in your daily life. For example, you might choose to write about the advantages and disadvantages
of the growth of cell phones in society. Then, you can make a list of the issue's positive and negative
aspects to reference as you write.
Balanced Topic Treatment

The tone of a pros and cons essay is objective and even, giving equal attention and respect to both sides.
The essay should enable readers to equally weigh the different concerns instead of being pushed toward
one perspective from the start. Your introduction should contribute to the balanced structure by
summarizing both sides and presenting a neutral thesis statement. A sample thesis might read, "While
cell phones provide conveniences, entertainment and ways to stay in touch, they also create serious
distractions, enable social bullying and create an easy crutch for critical thinking."

Describing Pros and Cons

The body paragraphs of the essay should provide details and examples to further develop the arguments
for each side of the topic. You can organize them however you want; some writers present one side of an
argument and then another, while others provide a point followed immediately by a counterpoint. Either
way, your discussion should be well-researched, with clear, specific examples to support every assertion.
According to the University of Calgary, using transitional phrases can also provide fluency and focus
within the essay. To introduce new points, you might use phrases such as "many people believe,"
"another viewpoint is" or "on the other hand."

Conclusion and Evaluation

Although the conclusion should reveal the writer's viewpoint, it still needs to be stated in an objective,
unbiased manner. Using first person phrases like "I believe" corrupts the balanced tone you have set
throughout the course of the essay. Similarly, tearing down the opposite position can alienate readers,
even if they have found your essay useful to this point. Instead of focusing on yourself, try to center your
statements on the information you've presented. For example, your concluding paragraph might begin,
"Taking everything into consideration, the social and technological benefits of cell phones outweigh their
potential to be misused."

Types of Introductions in Essays

All essays need an introduction, a way to inform the reader about the topic and show the writer's
perspective on the subject. The way you choose to write your introduction will depend on the type of
essay you are writing and the topic itself. Knowing some of the options you have for introductions will
help you write an effective opening that engages your readers and makes them want to keep reading.

Set the Scene

Scene setting works well for essays that tell a story. You might also use this style if you want to draw your
readers into your topic, creating a scenario that they may identify with. Giving the sights, sounds, tastes
and feel of a scene makes readers want to know more.
Give an Overview

You can use the introduction to give an overview or the historical background of your topic. This grounds
readers in the facts and provides the information they need to understand your subject matter. In this
style, you might also compare and contrast ideas to show how your topic relates to others. Your goal is to
provide readers with enough information that they can focus on the points you present in the body of
your essay.

Quote an Expert

Introducing your essay with a quote from an expert in the subject matter will help establish the
credibility of your research and your viewpoint. The right quote will also give readers information about
the topic and establish your viewpoint, helping to create a solid foundation for your argument.

Ask a Question

You might pose one or more questions to your readers in the introduction. This style can help you bring
readers closer to your topic, increasing their awareness of how they feel or react to your subject matter.
When you pose a question in your introduction, you need address the answer throughout your essay.
You should not ask questions that do not relate directly to the topic itself. For example, you might ask,
“How would you get back on your feet if you lost your job and your home?” With this question in mind,
the main part of your essay might state facts on the subject of homelessness or give ideas on how to
help people faced with this situation.

How to Write Constructive Essays

Writing constructive essays is one of the best ways to practice influential writing or prepare for a verbal
debate. This type of essay differs from others because it provides factual information, critical analysis
and space for more than one viewpoint. However, it subtly and artfully persuades readers to accept your
particular perspective. While writing this type of essay, you will be developing your own philosophical
viewpoints, your ability to clearly see two or more sides of an argument, and the skill to drive your point
home in an effective manner.

Choose a topic that you are passionate about on some level and are interested in delving into more
deeply. It should be a topic that is controversial in the sense that drastically differing viewpoints exist on
the matter and many people may be struggling to decide which "side of the fence" they are on. You do
not necessarily have to know which side you will argue right away.

Conduct research on your topic of choice and investigate all of the various different ways it can be
viewed. For example, if you choose the topic of whether or not abortion should be legal, you will want to
look into religious viewpoints, societal implications, population problems, US law and women's rights.
Once you have all of the information at your fingertips, choose which side you will argue. You can choose
the side you have a natural inclination for -- or choose the opposite side to develop the ability to argue
impartially.

Write the introductory paragraph of the essay by explaining the problem in general terms. Do not
emphasize one or the other or attach any emotions at this point. This could mean simply stating some
general facts about the historical resistance to abortion, when it became legal, women's rights advocates
and religious groups that oppose them.

Illustrate all of the various conflicting views on the issue in more detail and in an unbiased manner. Show
the readers that you have the capability of understanding more than one perspective. Zone in on the
viewpoint that is opposite to the one you plan on arguing for, showing readers how it is not altogether
unreasonable. Having sympathy for both sides of the argument will make readers more sympathetic to
you and more likely to trust the reasoning behind your train of thought.

Focus on your side of the argument in the next paragraph. Provide justifications for opposing the
viewpoints that were mentioned in the previous paragraph. Execute this in a manner that does not come
off as preachy or dogmatic, which could result in losing the sympathy of the readers. Maintain a voice of
reason but slip in moments of conviction and passion when it seems appropriate.

Take into consideration the possible objections that will result from your last paragraph and defend
against them. Write about these objections as though you are inviting the objections, and avoid
sounding defensive or condemning. Rationally explain why your viewpoint is more solid or sound than
these objecting viewpoints.

Conclude your essay by briefly covering the exposition of ideas again, and stating in a firm and practical
manner why the perspective you are arguing is the best way to view the topic. Make sure you final
sentence is a strong statement of the viewpoint that would be difficult to argue with.

How to Make a Good Introduction Paragraph

Usually completed in a paragraph, a paper's introduction serves many purposes. An introduction of any
essay should establish the topic being discussed, grab and hold the reader’s attention and provide a
summary of what will be covered throughout the essay. Depending on the topic, introductions may vary
in length and content, but the essential elements remain the same.
Organizing the Introduction Paragraph

Research the topic of the essay

Research the topic of the essay. The introduction paragraph presents the writer’s opinion on the topic
and should therefore be clear and precise.

Decide the information

Decide how the information will be presented in the essay. A writer should decide how much
information will be covered in the essay before writing the introduction paragraph, according to the
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's Writing Center.

Identify the essay's main purpose

Identify the essay's main purpose. The purpose of the essay should be determined before beginning the
writing process.

Writing the Introduction Paragraph

Create a sentence

Create a sentence that grabs the reader’s attention. Introductory paragraphs should begin with a clear
and interesting sentence.

Explain the essay

Explain what the essay will be about. An introductory paragraph should explain what the essay will
address so the reader can understand the topic and the writer’s point of view, according to Purdue
University’s Online Writing Lab.

Discuss information

Discuss how information will be presented in the essay. Highlighting the way the topic will be covered
helps readers understand the writer’s opinion. Discussing the essay’s structure is important in longer
essays.

Write a clear thesis statement

Write a clear thesis statement. Every introduction should end with a clear thesis statement.
How Do I Write an Informative Essay Linking Two Texts?

Essays can be informative, persuasive or both. But writing an essay that achieves these purposes can be
challenging when you also have to compare or contrast two texts. In this situation, organizational skills
are important. To keep yourself and your reader from becoming confused, plan and organize your essay
before you begin writing.

Planning

When using two texts to write an essay, it is important to plan where you want particular information
from each text to fit into your essay. You can handle each text separately or combine the two in the body
of your essay. When making contrasts between two texts, it is often better organizationally to keep
references to both texts in two separate sections of your essay in a text-by-text comparison. But if you
want to show how two texts are similar, then weaving both texts into the body of your essay using a
point-by-point comparison works as well.

Thesis Statement

How you handle writing your thesis statement when using multiple texts is important. For example, if
you were writing an informative essay on how "The Hunger Games" and "The Most Dangerous Game"
are similar in plot and theme, then your thesis needs to give a concise statement of your claim. Your
thesis should not be unwieldy. A good thesis for this might be "Survival of the fittest is a major theme in
the plots of both 'The Hunger Games' and 'The Most Dangerous Game' because both deal with hunting,
humans and survival."

Structure

In a typical five-paragraph essay, organizing the information from two texts is relatively simple. When
comparing two texts, you can either discuss each text in separate paragraphs, or conduct a point-by-
point analysis of both texts at the same time in each paragraph.

Coverage

If you provide more information from one text than the other, your essay may not have the desired
effect, so cover each text equally. This is especially true if you are making a point-by-point comparison.
Use your concluding paragraph to restate your thesis and reiterate any major points.
How to Write a Persuasive Essay

Many essays require persuasive techniques: Propose a position on a topic, then prove it in written form.
A persuasive essay provides an opportunity for writers to display their comprehension of a topic as well
as their views on it. An effective persuasive essay requires work to craft the key elements.

Thesis Statement

The foundation of a persuasive essay is the thesis statement. A strong thesis statement is both debatable
and narrow enough to prove within the constraints of the essay. Though the thesis statement is just one
sentence located in the introductory paragraph, everything in the essay must work to prove its validity.
Depending on the assignment the writer may argue whether a fact has been settled, assert one event
caused another or propose a solution to a problem. When writing a thesis statement ask what needs to
be proven and construct one strong sentence stating that.

Persuasive Techniques

The pillars of persuasion relate to logical, emotional and ethical appeals. To argue logically use facts,
statistics and quotes from experts in the field. Another logical technique is syllogism, testing two
premises against each other and drawing a conclusion from the results. Appealing to readers’ emotions
through anecdotes, deliberate word choice or even an appropriately used joke makes for effective
persuasion. The goal is to put readers in a frame of mind for agreeing with the thesis. Readers don’t
believe authors they don’t trust, so prove credibility with the level of research conducted, proofing for
grammatical errors and acknowledging opposing opinions.

Counterargument

Ethics dictate addressing opposing points of view. Acknowledging the opposition’s side shows a deep
understanding of the topic and enhances credibility. Furthermore, focus on the opposition’s strongest
points and either refute them or attempt to put them in a different light favoring the argument being
made. Counterargument can take the form of one paragraph acknowledging and refuting opposing
points or as a thread throughout the body of an essay.

Writing Process

A persuasive essay is a crafted piece of writing. As such, adhere to the writing process. Collect support
for the thesis statement, especially focusing on research. Plan the essay before even attempting the
rough draft. Use a formal outline, a graphic organizer or another method of organization. After writing
the essay go back and revise, preferably after some time. The revision process ensures arguments read
the way they are intended. Check the essay for cohesion by ensuring all the topic sentences support the
thesis statement and all the evidence in each paragraph supports the topic sentence. Proof for spelling,
punctuation and grammatical errors before submitting the essay.
How to Write an Introductory Paragraph in Elementary School

A well-written introductory paragraph hooks the reader, previews the contents of the entirety of the
essay in a thesis sentence and lays out the plan for the rest of the essay. When an elementary student
accomplishes these elements of the introductory paragraph, the rest of the essay usually falls into place.

The Hook

Lure the reader

Lure the reader into reading the rest of the essay with a hook. According to Step Up to Writing, strategies
to interest the reader include using an anecdote, a startling fact, a quotation, poetry, or humor; starting
the paper with a question; relating the essay to literature, the news, history, or movies; and presenting
important facts related to the topic.

For example, when writing an essay about shark attacks, hook the reader with startling facts about the
number of shark attacks each year, relate the essay to a recent story in the news about sharks or start
the paper with a question, such as "Are you afraid to swim in the ocean?" The reader will be hooked and
looking forward to the rest of the essay about shark attacks.

Thesis Statement

Contains the main idea

The thesis statement contains the main idea of the essay. Write the thesis statement as an
occasion/position statement. When writing an occasion/position statement, start out with an occasion
phrase -- although, while, as if, until, whether, whenever, if, even though or since. Finish the occasion and
the purpose for the writing and end with the position. The position is the writer's opinion. For example,
"Although there are many great rivers in North America, the Colorado River rushing through the Grand
Canyon is one of the most powerful" provides a purpose and the writer's opinion. Proving the Colorado
River is one of the most powerful rivers in North America is the purpose of the essay.

Write the Plan

Write a plan sentence as part of the introductory paragraph

Write a plan sentence as part of the introductory paragraph. The plan names the topics of each
paragraph in the body of the essay, which will help prove the position of the writer in the thesis
statement. "When Martin Luther King marched in the Montgomery Bus Boycott, he showed bravery,
dedication and leadership." Each element of the plan is the topic of a paragraph in the body of the essay.
Other Considerations

After the introductory paragraph is written

After the introductory paragraph is written, read it aloud. Make sure the thesis sentence states the
purpose of the essay. If the purpose is not clear, rewrite the statement until it clearly states the reason
for the essay and the writer's opinion.

Once the introductory paragraph is written, write an outline for the body of the essay using the elements
from the plan listed in the introductory paragraph. Keep in mind that proving the thesis statement
should guide the writer through the rest of the essay.

How to Write a Hypothesis to an Analytical Essay

Each analytical essay includes a hypothesis, better known as a thesis. It says what you believe about a
certain topic, or what you have discovered through research, in one or two sentences. It is usually
included in the introduction to a report or essay, and is often placed after the general introduction to the
paper's topic. Purdue University's Online Writing Lab states, "An analytical paper breaks down an issue
or an idea into its component parts, evaluates the issue or idea, and presents this breakdown and
evaluation to the audience."

Identify the general topic you want to write about. This may be a very broad topic, such as the history of
the American Revolution. At this stage of developing your thesis, a broad topic is expected.

Research your topic. You will find some recurring themes in your reading. Perhaps a controversial aspect
of the history of the American Revolution keeps popping up in the articles you read.

Narrow your focus. When you look closely at one aspect of your topic, you should find that that aspect
could potentially produce some spirited conversation among your paper's readers. It doesn't state your
take on the subject; it is a specific statement that could generate discussion on both (or more) sides of
the topic.

Take a stand on the subject. State explicitly what you think caused/contributed to/ended the aspect of
the American Revolution you've studied. The rest of your paper is devoted to supporting your thesis.
Your thesis should explain your analysis of the topic, and then present what you think about it to the
report's readers in one or two sentences.

How to Write a Hook for an Essay

An essay's hook encourages the reader to continue reading by creating interest in your topic and writing
style. Generally, the hook occurs early in an essay and uses one of several techniques, including quotes,
short anecdotes or rhetorical questions.

Writing a Hook

One method of hooking your reader is including a quote from another source that is especially engaging
or pertinent to your topic. Quotes are commonly taken from literary works or public or historical figures.
Epictetus' statement, "Only the educated are free," could be used as a hook for an essay on the
importance of formal education. Anecdotal hooks can also be very effective. These rely on the retelling
of a story, usually told from personal experience. You might talk about your near accident when texting
and driving before arguing for stricter penalties. The rhetorical approach presents a question to the
reader to introduce an idea or make a point about a topic -- not to elicit an answer. You might ask
"What's more important -- wealth or happiness?" The rest of your essay would support, say, happiness
as being more important.

How to Frame an Essay

Framing an essay helps a writer set the tone for the piece and creates a structure for the information
that follows. Essay frames allow writers to address specific information, such as a discussion or a theme,
a persuasive argument about an issue or a list of instructional steps or directions to complete a task. As
young writers learn to develop strong essay framing techniques, they will master the art of writing
convincing and detailed essays.

Pick an essay topic. Decide what you will write about and how you will structure your argument. For
example, a persuasive essay will begin with a clearly stated thesis topic, while an instructional essay will
begin with a clear statement about an activity or action. The writer must first form and state the topic in
order to then write an essay that provides evidence or information regarding the topic.

Begin with a clear statement of the theme. Use a quote from an expert or a direct statement of your
stance to begin the essay. For example, if you are writing a persuasive essay against the death penalty,
you may frame the essay by opening with a quote from a respected activist who frequently speaks out
against the death penalty. Your opening phrases will help define the topic and frame your tone and
approach to it.
Outline and write the main points that support the frame of the essay. Once you have developed your
frame and topic sentences, you can outline the main points for the body of the essay. In a persuasive
essay the main points will support your view of the issue and help refute opposing views. You can check
that your essay flows properly and is thorough by reviewing each point in the body of the essay and
checking to see that it relates directly back to the essay's frame.

End with a concise conclusion that connects back to the frame. Effective essay framing helps you
structure an essay point-by-point so you can arrive at a clear conclusion that supports your topic. In an
instructional essay, the reader will have been given all the information necessary to complete a task or
activity, while a persuasive essay will offer the reader sufficient information to support the views stated
in the topic sentence.

Different Kinds of Expository Writing

Exposition is a genre of writing people encounter every day in formats such as magazine and newspaper
articles. The purpose of expository writing is to explain, describe or inform the reader about a particular
topic by presenting an idea, investigating that idea, providing evidence and crafting an argument.
Different types of expository writing include Cause and Effect, Problem and Solution, How-To and
Compare and Contrast.

Creating Cause and Effect Essays

Cause and effect essays describe the relationship between one or more effects and, most often, a single
central cause. Topics can include the effects of a historic event, a personal decision, the election of a
public official or an environmental crisis. Cause and effect essays can also explore hypothetical outcomes
of future scenarios. For example, an essay predicting the long-term effects of global warming is both
fact-based and open-ended since the ultimate effects are unknown.

Identifying Problems and Solutions

Problem and solution writings are exactly what one might expect by the title: the goal is to identify a
problem, explain it to the reader and discuss possible solutions to remedy the problem. For example,
someone may choose to write about a problem such as childhood obesity. After explaining the problem
in detail, he or she would explore one (or more) solutions to the problem at hand. Two possible solutions
to childhood obesity may be limiting time children spend on electronics and having them spend time
being active outdoors. The writer would provide evidence to validate and support the main points of the
essay.

Handling How-to Essays

How-to writings explain how to perform a particular task, in simple terms, with chronological steps that
are reasonably easy for the reader to follow. A recipe for baking chocolate chip cookies is a light version
of the how-to format while a technical instruction manual is a more detailed variation. Use directional
verbs like "make," mix" or "place" when describing each step. Include a supply list, if applicable, while
avoiding lengthy phrasing, but be sure to include all necessary information on how to get the job done.

Covering Compare and Contrast Compositions

The compare and contrast format explores attributes of two or more topics. This essay style features two
main elements of content. Comparison is the section that emphasizes similarities, and contrast focuses
on differences. This writing style can be presented in two different organizational formats. The point-by-
point format includes multiple sections devoted to subcategories that explore attributes of each topic.
For example, in an essay about cats and dogs as pets, subcategories may include size, disposition,
nutritional needs and cleanliness. The second format, known as block or subject-by-subject, includes one
section per topic. This essay would feature paragraphs addressing all attributes of the dog and then a a
group of separate paragraphs describing the cat. Essentially, this format requires one to write a short
essay about one topic (dogs) followed by another short essay on the other topic (cats).

What Is a Narrative Response?

In order to obtain a detailed, personalized answer to a question, a survey or essay may request a
narrative response. How long or detailed that response should be is usually left up to the responder.

Narrative

A narrative, whether it's an answer or an essay, is a story written from a distinct point of view. This point
of view is usually the author's.

Response

A response is usually an answer to a specific question or series of questions. A response paper or

response essay, however, can be written to counter another paper or essay.

Narrative Response
If you combine these two terms (narrative and response), it can easily be understood that a narrative
response is an answer to a question or a series of questions that is written in the form of a story from a
specific point of view.

Purpose

A narrative response is meant to give the author the opportunity to relate their own experience to the
question being asked. A narrative response also gives more information about the person writing it than
just a fill-in-the-blank-response might.

Person

Narrative responses can be written in either the first or third person. First person is easier, and the third
person "this author" can seem dated.