• How do I get an A?
                        To get an A, students have to demonstrate mastery of the Common Core State Standards associated with            
                        argumentative writing. These standards are listed below.


What is an Argumentative Essay?

Here are two examples of argumentative essays. They are both written by the same author, and in each one, he takes a different position. You can see he leads each argument with facts, not opinions, but his position is still conveyed through the facts he chooses to focus on and how he interprets them. 

Pro School Choice

school_choice_for.pdf
File Size: 19 kb
File Type: pdf
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AgAINST SCHOOL CHOICE

school_choice_against.pdf
File Size: 20 kb
File Type: pdf
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Common Core State Standards

  1. Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.

  1. Introduce claim(s), acknowledge alternate or opposing claims, and organize the reasons and evidence logically.

  1. Support claim(s) with logical reasoning and relevant evidence, using accurate, credible sources and demonstrating an understanding of the topic or text.

  1. Use words, phrases, and clauses to create cohesion
    and clarify the relationships among claim(s), reasons, and evidence.

  1. Establish and maintain a formal style.
To see these standards "translated" into kid-friendly language, click and view the file below.
ccss_argumentative__grades_6-8.pdf
File Size: 114 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File
  • What is the difference between an argumentative essay and a persuasive essay?
                        Persuasive writing and argumentative writing share many similarities but they are different from each other in                             very important ways. Most kids are more familiar with persuasive writing because it is easier for younger                                        children. Persuasive writing is about convincing someone of something using any way possible. Emotions (and flat                         out guilt trips) are acceptable forms of evidence. Bias is expected in your writing and you will probably only
                        explain your side of the issue. This is not acceptable in argumentative essays.
                       
                        In argumentative writing, the writer tries to explain an entire argument--both sides of a debatable issue. After                             they present facts and research about both sides, the author explains why one side has better evidence and why                             that evidence "wins." The writer can only use facts and logic, not emotions, to convince the reader which side is
                        the smart choice to pick.

                                     For more information, read this article on SmekensEducation.com: Argument v. Persuasive