Argumentative Essay Structure and Components

The video tutorial explains how to write effective argumentative essays by clearly stating claims, reasons, and evidence. It provides examples and exercises to help students identify and craft reason statements that introduce evidence. The tutorial also covers the structure of body paragraphs, emphasizing the importance of starting with a reason statement followed by supporting evidence. Students are guided through exercises to practice these skills and encouraged to apply them to their own writing.

What is the primary purpose of a claim in an argumentative essay?

• To introduce the topic

• To state the main idea or argument

• To provide evidence for the argument

• To summarize the essay

Which of the following best describes a reason in an argumentative essay?

• An unrelated fact

• A summary of the evidence

• A conclusion of the essay

• A statement that supports the claim

What should a good body paragraph in persuasive writing begin with?

• A conclusion

• A quote

• A question

• A reason statement

How many pieces of evidence are recommended to support a reason in a body paragraph?

• At least two

• At least three

• At least four

• At least one

In the exercise, what was identified as the reason statement in the example paragraph?

• Students need laptops for entertainment

• Having a laptop will help students get better grades

• Laptops are unnecessary

• Laptops are expensive

What was missing in the first body paragraph of the essay about vending machines?

• Evidence

• A reason statement

• A claim

• A conclusion

What was the suggested reason statement for the paragraph about vending machines affecting student health?

• Vending machines are popular

• Vending machines are convenient

• Vending machines can make students unhealthy

• Vending machines are cost-effective

What was the main idea of the second body paragraph about vending machines?

• Vending machines are fun

• Vending machines are necessary

• Vending machines are healthy

• Vending machines are a waste of money for students

What should you consider when writing a reason statement for a paragraph?

• The common theme of the evidence

• The length of the paragraph

• The conclusion of the essay

• The number of sentences

What is the benefit of clearly stating reasons backed by evidence in writing arguments?

• It confuses the reader

• It makes the essay longer

• It strengthens and clarifies the argument

• It reduces the need for a conclusion