Thesis Statements for Argument Essays

1. Thesis Statements for Argument Essays September 18, 2023

2. A thesis statement for an argument essay must clearly state the writer’s position on a real issue. It should not be a personal opinion that cannot be proven, like “Popcorn is more delicious than peanuts.” It often includes a word or phrase that signals an opinion (should, ought to, need to, have an obligation to, must). In addition, it may include phrases such as, “for a number of reasons” and “because of several factors,” that preview the reasons to be discussed. The most explicit thesis statement states the reasons the writer will use to support her argument. Study these examples:

3. Example of thesis statements

4. example • Topic: Education Reform • Thesis Statement: "To improve our education system and prepare students for the challenges of the future, we must invest in teacher training, update curriculum to include essential skills, and provide equitable access to quality education for all."

5. Write a pro thesis statement and a con thesis statement for each topic from Activity 2. When you finish, compare your answers with a partner’s.

6. Write your arguments 1. Topic: Social Media and Mental Health • Thesis Statement: "The correlation between excessive social media use and declining mental health is undeniable, necessitating a closer examination of how platforms are designed, their addictive nature, and the importance of digital well-being education." 2. Topic: Legalization of Marijuana • Thesis Statement: "The legalization of marijuana for both medicinal and recreational use is a prudent step, as it can generate revenue, reduce the burden on the criminal justice system, and regulate product quality and safety."

7. Adding Counterargument and Refutation Statements • To persuade the reader that a viewpoint is correct, the writer needs to include strong support. Another technique is to include a counterargument—an opposing viewpoint. The counterargument allows the writer to admit a potential flaw in her argument and then to address it. Introducing this counterargument adds credibility to an essay. It shows that the writer understands more than one point of view about the topic. After providing a counterargument, the writer must give a refutation—a response to the counterargument—that either disproves it or shows it to be less convincing than the thesis.

8. Steps you can follow: 1. Identify the Counterargument: Begin by identifying a valid counterargument or opposing viewpoint related to your thesis statement. Consider what someone who disagrees with your position might argue. 2. Present the Counterargument Clearly: In a separate paragraph or section of your essay, present the counterargument in a clear and unbiased manner. Avoid misrepresenting or oversimplifying the opposing viewpoint. 3. Acknowledge the Validity: Acknowledge the validity or merit of the counterargument. This demonstrates that you have considered opposing viewpoints seriously. 4. Refute the Counterargument: After presenting the counterargument, provide a strong and well-reasoned refutation. This is where you argue why the counterargument is ultimately flawed or less persuasive than your own position. Use evidence, logical reasoning, and examples to support your refutation. Explain why the counterargument doesn't hold up under scrutiny.

9. 5. Use Transition Phrases: Use transition phrases to signal the shift from the counterargument to your refutation. Phrases like "However," "Nevertheless," or "On the contrary" can be effective in making this transition clear. 6. Be Respectful and Objective: Maintain a respectful and objective tone throughout the counterargument and refutation. Avoid using emotional language or personal attacks. Stick to the facts and logical arguments. 7. Anticipate Potential Rebuttals: Consider potential rebuttals to your refutation and address them preemptively. This further strengthens your argument and demonstrates thorough consideration of the issue. 8. Provide a Strong Closing Statement: Summarize your refutation and reassert your thesis statement. Emphasize why your position remains the stronger one despite the counterargument.

10. Imagine that you are having an argument with a friend who disagrees with your opinion. What do you think will be the strongest argument against your point of view? That is your counterargument. How will you respond to the counterargument? The answer is your refutation. • Look at the following example. The counterargument is in italics and the refutation is underlined. • Some might say that in a democracy people should have the right to vote as well as not to vote. However, if few people vote, then the chosen candidate may not represent the whole electorate. • As you can see, what begins as a counterargument ends up as another reason in support of the writer’s opinion.

11. Writing a strong counterargument and refutation statement is essential in an argumentative essay. It demonstrates your awareness of opposing viewpoints and your ability to address and refute those arguments effectively.

12. Transitions for Counterarguments and Refutations Some common transitions for developing support in your argument and for addressing a counterargument

14. Highlight the transitions used to add information.

17. Identifying counterargument and refutation Reread Essay 7.1 and complete the tasks. 1. Write the counterargument(s) used by the writer. ____________________________________________________ 2. Paraphrase the refutation used by the writer._______________________________________________

18. Writing refutations for counterarguments • For each counterargument, write a one-sentence refutation. Include different transition words for each item.