An argument essay has two goals: to persuade reader to accept his/her position on an issue.

to demonstrate why s/he defends this point of view on an issue. Here the writer must explain his/her reasoning behind his/her position.

argument = a dialog, set in writing, between the writer and the readers. I introduce the subject makes his/her claim, discuss any necessary background information present the evidence for his/her position.

The argument should include:

Statement and brief explanation of the question or problem, justifying its importance if necessary. Statement of the position you are taking the claim. The evidence (reasons) for the position are presented next. The writer adds as much evidence as s/he can think of to support his/her point of view. Conclusion: assess the original position using the evidence.

Remember: An argument should present a claim (an opinion) supported by reasoning and evidence, which persuades your reader that the idea your paper is defending is a valid one.

Very important The little conjunctions: and, but, nor, for, yet, or, and so show that ideas are somehow connected The conjunctive adverbs such as: however, moreover, nevertheless, on the other hand do the same job.

Other linking words Addition: again, also, and, and then, besides, equally important, finally, first, further, furthermore, in addition, in the first place, last, moreover, next, second, still, too Comparison: also, in the same way, likewise, similarly Contrast: although, and yet, at the same time, despite that, even though, however, in contrast, in spite of, nevertheless, on the contrary, on the other hand, otherwise,

Example: for example, for instance, in other words, it is true,

Summary: all in all, as has been said, finally, in conclusion, in summary, to summarize

Time sequence: again, also, and then, before, besides, earlier, eventually, finally, furthermore, in addition, in the first place, meanwhile, moreover, then,

1st paragraph Useful expressions

What comes to my mind when discussing....is... Almost every day you hear.... Today we are repeatedly confronted with the problem of.... Some (experts/people/of my friends) say... A friend of mine said... Recently I have read that.... When discussing.....I remember.... Therefore one should discuss..../ask the question if..../it is interesting to weigh up the pros and cons of.../the benefits and drawbacks of..../the arguments in favour of and against... It seems to me that..... Quite frankly, I tend to think that...

2nd paragraph Useful expressions

Useful expressions for your arguments Firstly/In the first place....Let us start by considering...Let us first consider the question of...I should like to begin with...The first obvious advantage/disadvantage of... Secondly....Moreover....Furthermore....Another thing is....Another point in favour of/against... is...

2nd paragraph continued Always add examples / explanations / reasons / consequences... It is essential to form paragraphs. Each paragraph must have a key sentence at the beginning). Dont write any one-sentence-paragraphs. Examples: Take for example.....Take for instance... One example out of many is... Just look at.... This idea can best be illustrated by an example...

Last paragraph
In the conclusion clearly express your opinion. Sum up your main arguments in your own words but do not repeat any phrases that have already been used. Do not introduce new arguments here. Make your ending personal. Think about possible consequences and effects of your opinion. Express your hopes for the future. In conclusion, let me say that.... All things considered, I must say that... From all this one must conclude that... Perhaps the future will show that.... I hope that in the future.........