Argumentative-Paper Structure
The following general structure that you’ll apply to thinking, arguing, and writing should serve to force critical analysis of your own ideas and others’. Central to the idea of argument is a fair balancing of positions; ultimately, you will avoid such logical pitfalls as “straw man argument” and “either/or” thinking by building the strongest case on all sides of a given issue. In development, your thesis statement will flow through this structure and eventually synthesize with the opposition you describe.
One important thing to note in considering this outline is that the numeric divisions suggest sections (NOT paragraphs) of your essay. In order to logically develop your thesis and persuade a reader along the way, you as a writer have the obligation to prove a case by fulfilling the ideas required in each of the following sections.
I. Introduction
A. Grounding of issues in a stylistically strong and focused opening
B. Articulation of main thesis statement
II. Facts of the Case
A. Construction of all relevant facts, definitions, historical background, etc.
B. Exposition of all relevant details, sources, and ideas as foundation for argument
III. Opposition
A. Fair presentation of opposing viewpoints to your own that serve to critique your thesis
B. Even-handed construction of an alternate case to challenge your own
IV. Refutation: Fair and systematic rebuttal of Opposition
V. Concession and Synthesis
A. Admission of points you will concede to the Opposition
B. Synthesis of these points and reconstruction of stronger thesis
C. Final compelling arguments
VI. Conclusion: Restatement of thesis as developed throughout the essay
Consider this structure, first, by plugging in the details of classically polarized arguments (e.g. pro/con on the death penalty, abortion, prayer in schools, etc.). Secondly, employ this structure with your own ideas developing toward a final research paper, and start drafting a customized outline.
Posted by Benjamin at October 19, 2006 11:27 AM
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