Kempner High School

Argumentative Essay

For complete directions, access the Argumentative Essay Packet below:

Argumentative Essay Pack - Part I

Argumentative Essay Packet - Part II

Guidelines for Selecting a Successful Argumentative Essay Topic

1. Is the topic narrow enough to be successfully and convincingly developed in a 1-2 page paper? A very specific topic, well presented, is more effective than a broad (seemingly more significant) topic that can't be developed fully.
2. Is there a legitimate opposition?
3. Can you refute the opposition's argument (counterargument)?
4. Can your position be argued and supported primarily with fact and logic rather than emotion, or a morality-based stance?
5. Is it an issue you have experience with or have a vested interested in? To be convincing, your voice must be heard.

Research using the databases listed below to find credible information to back up your arguments. 

Britannica Procon.Org - Browse pros and cons of debatable issues, as well as a host of reference information relevant to those issues.

Opposing Viewpoints - Offers material to support differing views and help students develop critical thinking skills on thousands of current social topics.

For additional research, consider using the following sources: 

Gale in Context High School - General Research for Topic Overviews

Gale eBooks - Access to trustworthy eBook resources to enrich their learning, delivered through a user-friendly platform.

Library Catalog - Use the library catalog to look up books about particular hot topics.