Structure of a Counter-Argument

[T/P] Begin with a topic sentence: Introduce the opposing sides arguments.
You are acknowledging the other point of view. Use phrases such as the
following:
Some critics argue/assert/contend/claim/state . . .
Many believe that . . .
It has been argued/asserted/contended/claimed/stated . . .
Opponents argue/assert/contend/claim/state . . .

[E] Next, introduce the Expert Source that supports the

counterargument: This sentence supports your counter-argument with a
quotation or paraphrase of evidence from an expert.

[E] Followed by, an Explanation sentence: This sentence begins with a

transition (therefore, thus, to explain, as a result, to elaborate, in other words,
etc.) and explains the evidence and/or provides an example of what it is
saying.

[C] And the Concession sentence: Concede (acknowledge) the other sides
validity in a respectful way. Writing a concession sentence shows maturity.
and that you recognize and respect the views of others. You might begin with
phrases such as the following:
For this reason, opponents believe/argue/claim/contend/stress etc.
As a result of _______________, many believe/argue etc.
It is understandable why the opposition believes/argues etc.
Critics have a valid point about . . .

Rebutation/Rebuttal
When you refute or challenge the oppositions viewpoint, you should
remind readers of your stance. You might begin by using a phrase such as
the following:
Nevertheless/nonetheless/however + your argument
Though it is a valid point/argument + your argument
Even though (one part of the argument) is true, it still does not . . .
Though he/she/they make a good point, + your argument
Some advice on Rebuttal (self-read)
Make sure that you complete the rebuttal by refuting the actual
counterargument that you are using in this paragraph.
Do not argue against a different counterargument, as there are usually
several.
Stick to the one counterargument throughout the entire paragraph. If you want
to address more than one counter-argument, then you will need to do so in
separate paragraphs.
It helps to pick counterarguments that you can refute easily.
A Summary of the Counter-Argument and Rebuttal paragraph Format

(1) [P/T] Write the counter-argument by starting with a topic Sentence

bring in the assumption of the opposing party.
(2)[Ev] Introduce an expert source (or evidence) to support.
(3) [Ex] Explain your evidence.
(4) [C] Concede validity of the opposing side (however, be careful not
to support in your choice of words)
(5) [P/T] Refute with your argument based on the counter-argument
brought up.
(6) [E, E]Support with evidence and explain.

QNS - Is there a case for keeping animals in zoos?

[Point/Counterargument] Some may argue that there have been zoo
conservation efforts to aid the conservation of species such as the
Giant Panda [e.g.] facing extinction. [Explain] This might seem like a noble
goal as zoos claim to provide a safe environment and conduct breeding
programmes to multiply the endangered animal populations and eventually
release them into the wild.

[Point/Rebuttal] However, even though these efforts seem noble and altruistic,
they rarely translate into effective results. [Explain] Fundamentally, zoos are
profit-driven businesses and their efforts will never be completely altruistic.
[E.g.] For instance, zoos tend to pay more attention to breeding animals just
like the Great Panda, which are labelled as animals that are deemed cute or
large by the public, in order to appeal to more visitors and ultimately boost
their revenue.