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- Planning and structuring an argument
Planning and structuring an argument
Most transactional tasks ask you to argue or persuade. A clear plan and a logical structure make your viewpoint convincing.
Decide your view
Read the task and decide what you think. A clear, consistent viewpoint is easier to argue than sitting on the fence.
You can still mention the other side, then answer it: this is a counter-argument.
You can still mention the other side, then answer it: this is a counter-argument.
A reliable structure
Develop each point
One paragraph, one main idea.
Make the point, develop it with an example, a fact or an anecdote, then explain why it matters to your audience.
Link paragraphs with discourse markers: furthermore, however, as a result, finally.
Make the point, develop it with an example, a fact or an anecdote, then explain why it matters to your audience.
Link paragraphs with discourse markers: furthermore, however, as a result, finally.
Plan an article arguing that schools should start at 10am.
- View: yes, later starts help teenagers.
- Points: sleep patterns, better concentration, safer travel in daylight in winter.
- Counter-argument: 'Parents need to get to work. However, breakfast clubs could help.'
- Conclusion: call on the head and governors to trial it.
Answer: Opening hook and view, three developed points, a counter-argument with a rebuttal, and a call to action.
Pick a clear view. Plan an opening, three developed points, a counter-argument with a rebuttal, and a strong conclusion. Link paragraphs with discourse markers.
The interactive lesson includes the diagrams for this topic.
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