Argumentative Writing

Argumentative writing ranges from general discussion of social issues to strong argument from a stern standpoint. It involves giving opinions, reasoning and logical discussion.

1.      Language

-       Most argumentative writing involves general issues such as the contribution and destruction of technology, the invasion of computer and the choice between health and wealth. In these cases, simple present tense is preferred because the points will sound more universal and objective.

e.g. Many people are blind to their own mistakes.

        Learning through our mother tongue is more effective.

-      Defining the topic is very important in the argument. Sometimes the topic is very obvious (e.g. Is it good to be the eldest child?) but it can be quite ambiguous (e.g. Is Hong Kong a cultural desert?) at times. You can clarify the topic in these ways.

e.g. First of all, let us look at what … means.

        … refers to ...

-      You can put forward your ideas like these:

e.g. I believe / suppose / think …

        It seems / occurs to me that …

        To me, … (subject + verb + object) …

-      When you agree to a certain point, state it clearly.

e.g. It is obvious / undeniable / plain that …

        I absolutely / completely agree to …

        There is no doubt …

-      When you disagree with others’ opinions, as in the case of a debate, argue like these:

e.g. There is no evidence to say that …

       I strongly object to …

       I can hardly agree with …

       I can see no reason why …

-      Anticipate what arguments others may bring out and attack in advance.

e.g. Only illogical people will teach children by beating.

-      To make your points sound logical, the cause-effect reasoning technique must be employed.

We don’t smoke because we care about ourselves.

-      To increase persuasive power, you may like to add in some emphatic structures.

     e.g. I do support the Government to propose compulsory organ donation after death.

      Rarely do we care about the environment we are living in. What nonsense!

2.      Organization and Style

-      An argumentative essay can take various forms. The following outline is for your reference:

A.     Introduction / clarifying the topic

B.     Present your own ideas logically

C.     Anticipate and attack opposite ideas.

D.     Conclusion

-      An argumentative essay need not to be 100% lopsided. You will have more to write if you basically agree / disagree to the topic but have some reservation. (be aware of “fence-riding)

-      The skills of compare and contrast, weighing advantages and disadvantages etc. can always help up your argument.

-       Balance your arguments when you are instructed to analyze both the pros and cons of a topic.

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