1.3 Developing paragraphs as part of an effective argument
3 min read•january 26, 2023
Sahithi Morla
Sahithi Morla
Welcome to 1.3! Raise your hand if you’re excited to learn how to develop paragraphs in an effective argument. 🙋
What is the Purpose of Paragraphs?
Paragraphs are units of writing that are made up of a group of sentences that focus on a single topic or idea. These sentences are typically organized logically and coherently and work together to support the overall argument or main idea of the piece of writing. Paragraphs are used in various forms of writing, such as essays, research papers, and articles. They are important in organizing and developing ideas. They are also used to signal a change of topic or provide evidence supporting a thesis statement. Generally, a paragraph consists of a topic sentence, several supporting sentences, and a concluding sentence.
Paragraph Structure
Each paragraph should follow the AEC structure.
A | An assertion is a statement or claim that is made without providing evidence or proof. It is a declaration of something to be true or real, based on the speaker or writer's belief or understanding. n argumentative writing, assertions are used to present the writer's position on a topic. |
E | Evidence refers to any information that is used to support or refute a claim or assertion. It can take many forms such as facts, data, statistics, testimonials, examples, observations, expert opinions, and research studies. |
C | The commentary provides a deeper understanding of the subject or text being analyzed. It usually includes the writer's or speaker's own thoughts, insights, and opinions on the topic. |
What is an Effective Argument?
An effective argument includes:
A clear and specific thesis statement.
Evidence that supports the thesis.
Logical reasoning that connects the evidence to the thesis.
Additionally, an effective argument often includes counterarguments and refutations, as well as an acknowledgment of the complexity of the issue being discussed. The language and style of the argument should be appropriate for the audience and purpose and be effectively organized and well-written. 📑
How to Develop Paragraphs as part of an Effective Argument
To develop effective paragraphs as part of an argument, you can follow these steps:
Begin each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that relates to the thesis and previews the main point of the paragraph.
Provide evidence, examples, or anecdotes to support the topic sentence. This evidence should be relevant, credible, and appropriate for the audience and purpose.
Use logical reasoning to connect the evidence to the topic sentence and thesis. This will help strengthen the argument and clarify the connection between the evidence and the overall argument.
Include transition words and phrases to link the paragraphs together and to guide the reader through the argument.
Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion paragraph. Instead, summarize the main points of the argument and restate the thesis.
Finally, proofread and edit your work for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. A polished and well-written argument will be more effective in persuading your audience.
It is essential to remember that the organization of your argument is key 🔑. Make sure to structure your argument in a way that is easy to follow and makes logical sense.
Key Terms to Review (12)
Commentary
: Commentary refers to a written or spoken explanation or interpretation of an event, situation, or piece of work. It provides analysis and insight to help the audience understand the subject matter better.Concluding Sentence
: A concluding sentence is the final sentence of a paragraph or essay that summarizes the main point and brings closure to the topic. It helps to reinforce the overall message and leave a lasting impression on the reader.Conclusion Paragraph
: A conclusion paragraph is the final paragraph in an essay or other piece of writing. It summarizes the main points discussed in the body paragraphs and provides closure to the reader.Counterargument
: A counterargument is an opposing viewpoint or argument that challenges the main claim or thesis of a piece of writing. It provides alternative perspectives and strengthens critical thinking.Effective Argument
: An effective argument is one that persuades its audience by presenting well-supported claims with logical reasoning, strong evidence, and clear organization. It aims to change minds or influence opinions through compelling communication.Evidence
: Evidence refers to the information or data that supports a claim or argument. It is used to persuade the audience and make the argument more convincing.Logical Reasoning
: Logical reasoning refers to the process of using rational thinking and evidence to draw conclusions or make judgments. It involves analyzing information, identifying patterns, and making logical connections.Refutation
: Refutation is the act of proving an argument or claim false or invalid by presenting evidence or counterarguments that contradict it.Supporting Sentences
: Supporting sentences are sentences in an essay that provide additional information, examples, evidence, or explanations to support the main idea presented in the topic sentence or thesis statement.Thesis Statement
: A thesis statement is a clear and concise sentence that presents the main argument or claim of an essay. It serves as a roadmap for the reader, outlining the main points that will be discussed in the essay.Topic Sentence
: A topic sentence is usually found at the beginning of a paragraph and serves as its main idea. It introduces what will be discussed in that paragraph and helps maintain coherence within an essay by connecting back to the thesis statement.Transition Words
: Transition words are words or phrases that connect ideas within sentences, paragraphs, or essays. They help guide readers through different parts of an argument and improve overall coherence.1.3 Developing paragraphs as part of an effective argument
3 min read•january 26, 2023
Sahithi Morla
Sahithi Morla
Welcome to 1.3! Raise your hand if you’re excited to learn how to develop paragraphs in an effective argument. 🙋
What is the Purpose of Paragraphs?
Paragraphs are units of writing that are made up of a group of sentences that focus on a single topic or idea. These sentences are typically organized logically and coherently and work together to support the overall argument or main idea of the piece of writing. Paragraphs are used in various forms of writing, such as essays, research papers, and articles. They are important in organizing and developing ideas. They are also used to signal a change of topic or provide evidence supporting a thesis statement. Generally, a paragraph consists of a topic sentence, several supporting sentences, and a concluding sentence.
Paragraph Structure
Each paragraph should follow the AEC structure.
A | An assertion is a statement or claim that is made without providing evidence or proof. It is a declaration of something to be true or real, based on the speaker or writer's belief or understanding. n argumentative writing, assertions are used to present the writer's position on a topic. |
E | Evidence refers to any information that is used to support or refute a claim or assertion. It can take many forms such as facts, data, statistics, testimonials, examples, observations, expert opinions, and research studies. |
C | The commentary provides a deeper understanding of the subject or text being analyzed. It usually includes the writer's or speaker's own thoughts, insights, and opinions on the topic. |
What is an Effective Argument?
An effective argument includes:
A clear and specific thesis statement.
Evidence that supports the thesis.
Logical reasoning that connects the evidence to the thesis.
Additionally, an effective argument often includes counterarguments and refutations, as well as an acknowledgment of the complexity of the issue being discussed. The language and style of the argument should be appropriate for the audience and purpose and be effectively organized and well-written. 📑
How to Develop Paragraphs as part of an Effective Argument
To develop effective paragraphs as part of an argument, you can follow these steps:
Begin each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that relates to the thesis and previews the main point of the paragraph.
Provide evidence, examples, or anecdotes to support the topic sentence. This evidence should be relevant, credible, and appropriate for the audience and purpose.
Use logical reasoning to connect the evidence to the topic sentence and thesis. This will help strengthen the argument and clarify the connection between the evidence and the overall argument.
Include transition words and phrases to link the paragraphs together and to guide the reader through the argument.
Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion paragraph. Instead, summarize the main points of the argument and restate the thesis.
Finally, proofread and edit your work for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. A polished and well-written argument will be more effective in persuading your audience.
It is essential to remember that the organization of your argument is key 🔑. Make sure to structure your argument in a way that is easy to follow and makes logical sense.
Key Terms to Review (12)
Commentary
: Commentary refers to a written or spoken explanation or interpretation of an event, situation, or piece of work. It provides analysis and insight to help the audience understand the subject matter better.Concluding Sentence
: A concluding sentence is the final sentence of a paragraph or essay that summarizes the main point and brings closure to the topic. It helps to reinforce the overall message and leave a lasting impression on the reader.Conclusion Paragraph
: A conclusion paragraph is the final paragraph in an essay or other piece of writing. It summarizes the main points discussed in the body paragraphs and provides closure to the reader.Counterargument
: A counterargument is an opposing viewpoint or argument that challenges the main claim or thesis of a piece of writing. It provides alternative perspectives and strengthens critical thinking.Effective Argument
: An effective argument is one that persuades its audience by presenting well-supported claims with logical reasoning, strong evidence, and clear organization. It aims to change minds or influence opinions through compelling communication.Evidence
: Evidence refers to the information or data that supports a claim or argument. It is used to persuade the audience and make the argument more convincing.Logical Reasoning
: Logical reasoning refers to the process of using rational thinking and evidence to draw conclusions or make judgments. It involves analyzing information, identifying patterns, and making logical connections.Refutation
: Refutation is the act of proving an argument or claim false or invalid by presenting evidence or counterarguments that contradict it.Supporting Sentences
: Supporting sentences are sentences in an essay that provide additional information, examples, evidence, or explanations to support the main idea presented in the topic sentence or thesis statement.Thesis Statement
: A thesis statement is a clear and concise sentence that presents the main argument or claim of an essay. It serves as a roadmap for the reader, outlining the main points that will be discussed in the essay.Topic Sentence
: A topic sentence is usually found at the beginning of a paragraph and serves as its main idea. It introduces what will be discussed in that paragraph and helps maintain coherence within an essay by connecting back to the thesis statement.Transition Words
: Transition words are words or phrases that connect ideas within sentences, paragraphs, or essays. They help guide readers through different parts of an argument and improve overall coherence.
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