Writing to Argue

Here are the key points to remember when writing to argue in an exam.

Aimed at AQA English Paper 1, section B

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  • Created by: Bekki
  • Created on: 01-06-09 16:07

Writing an argument means expressing your opinion.

In order to achieve the top grade, you will need to cover three main points:

  • Argument
    • Express YOUR opinion about an argument
  • Counter Argument
    • Be awaare that someone else may have a different point of view
    • Include this viewpoint but discredit it with phrases like:
    • However this is not the case...
    • Im sure you will disagree with this statement
  • Balance
    • You need to achieve a balanced argument
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Structure

1. Introduction - Clearly state your opinion here

2. Main body of writing - Your argument, counter argument, other arguments, give evidence for and against

3. Conclusion - summerise your argument and the key points

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Techniques 1

  • Positive opening
    • Your opinion needs to be stated here
  • Evidence and justification
    • Give structure and reasoning to your argument
    • You could use PEE here
  • Connectives
    • To give your writing structure use: Firstly, Secondly, etc
    • To show cause and effect use: consequently, this means that, etc
    • to express comparisions (counter arguments) use: however, on the other hand
  • Rhetorical questions
    • Envolve the reader
    • Highlight an issue
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Techniques 2

Comparative devices

  • Emphasise main points
  • Make them stand out by attatching connotations
  • E.g. Similes, Metaphors
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Techniques 2

  • Exageration
    • Catch readers attention
    • Make them agree with you
  • Rule of three
    • Stress reasons in a way that stands out
    • Make them stronger
  • Personal tone
    • Makes the argument seem close to you and gives the reader the impression you do actually think about this topic
  • Present tense
    • Make your argument seem more 'in the now'
  • Personal Pronouns
    • Makes your argument more believable
    • Creates a relationship between writer and the audience
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Techniques 3

  • Exclamations
    • To stress importance of your argument
    • To discredit the other argument
  • Infinitive verb forms
    • Creates a formal tone
  • Colons
    • Makes a point clearer by adding a pause
  • Semi-colons
    • Useful for listing points in your argument
    • REMEMBER a colon begins the list and a semi colon breaks up the items listed
  • Clear conclusion
    • To summerise and restate your opinion
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