A good written argument will attempt to persuade a reader. It should use reasons and evidence, not just words and style. There may not be an obviously correct answer to the problem, and there will be many opinions. However, the job of the writer is to give convincing evidence to the reader.

An argument should have a focus and a clear position.

Argumentation

Focus:

A focus is one central idea that controls the argument. The writer may use many strategies and much evidence to convince the reader, but the focus, or central idea, must stay the same.

  • For example, we can use freedom of speech as a focus.

Position:

A position is the opinion of the writer. It should come in the introduction and the thesis statement. The body paragraphs should confirm this position. It should not be contradicted.

  • An example of a position is that freedom of speech is a good thing for governments to give its citizens.

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