Argumentative Composition: A Step-by-Step Guide for Secondary School Students

An Argumentative Composition is a type of essay where you are required to investigate a topic, gather evidence, and take a stance either in favor of or against a specific issue.

Imagine you are having a debate in class where each side presents their points, but instead of speaking, you write everything down clearly and systematically.

Download an argumentative composition here.

What is an Argumentative Composition?

An Argumentative Composition requires you to explore both sides of a topic before forming an opinion. You must present strong reasons to support your position and back up your arguments with reliable evidence.

The purpose is to convince your reader to agree with you or at least understand why you hold a certain opinion.

Think of it like this: If your school is debating whether students should wear uniforms or not, your task in an argumentative essay would be to either support or oppose the use of uniforms, using logical arguments and facts.

You may also choose to present both sides evenly without taking a stance, depending on what the essay requires.

Example Topics:

• Pollution: Should industries be heavily regulated to prevent pollution, or do they have a right to operate freely for economic growth?
• Social Media: Is social media more harmful or beneficial to young people?
• Death Penalty: Should the death penalty be abolished?
• Renewable Energy: Can renewable energy replace fossil fuels completely?

Structure of an Argumentative Composition

In any argumentative composition, there’s a clear structure that helps organize your ideas. Follow this structure to make your writing logical and easy to understand:

1. Introduction

The introduction is the first part of your composition. This is where you lay the foundation for the discussion, grab the reader’s attention, and clearly state your stance on the issue.

Key elements of the introduction:

• Ask a question: This encourages the reader to think about the topic before reading your arguments.
  • Example: “What are the main causes of air pollution in urban areas, and what can be done to reduce them?”
• Define key terms: Some topics may involve complex or technical words that need explanation.
  • Example: “Pollution refers to the harmful introduction of substances into the environment, causing damage to the air, water, and soil.”
• Make a general statement: You can provide background information on the topic.
  • Example: “Pollution is one of the most critical issues facing our planet today. With increasing industrial activities, air and water pollution have become serious threats to both the environment and human health.”

State your position: After introducing the topic, clearly state your stance. Are you in favor, against, or neutral? This will guide the reader on what to expect.

• Example: “In this essay, I will argue in favour of stricter pollution control measures to protect the environment.”

2. Main Body

The body of the composition is where you present your arguments in detail. Here, you will provide facts, examples, and evidence to support your position.

Each paragraph should focus on one point and should be supported by evidence, such as facts, statistics, or examples.

For the Motion (Supporting the Topic)

When you agree with the topic, begin by discussing the opposing viewpoint briefly, then provide more arguments that support your stance.

• First Paragraph (Against): Present one or two points from the opposing side.
  • Example: “Some people argue that economic development requires industrial activity, which inevitably leads to pollution. They believe that restricting industrial activity will slow down economic growth.”
• Subsequent Paragraphs (For): Now, present your arguments supporting the motion with stronger points and evidence.
  • Example: “However, industrial activity can be regulated to reduce pollution without halting economic growth. Countries like Sweden have implemented strict environmental policies that balance industrial production with environmental protection. As a result, they have maintained economic stability while reducing pollution levels.”

Another example might be:

• “Pollution affects the health of millions of people. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), outdoor air pollution causes 4.2 million deaths every year. This shows the urgent need for stricter regulations to protect human health.”

Against the Motion (Opposing the Topic)

If you oppose the motion, start by discussing one or two arguments in favor of it, then follow with more paragraphs that present your opposing view.

• First Paragraph (For): Present the arguments that support the topic.
  • Example: “Proponents of single-use plastics argue that they are convenient and hygienic, especially for food packaging and medical supplies.”
• Subsequent Paragraphs (Against): Present your arguments against the topic, using evidence to support your points.
  • Example: “Despite their convenience, single-use plastics are one of the largest contributors to environmental pollution. According to a report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, by 2050, there will be more plastic in the oceans than fish, posing a serious threat to marine life. The harmful effects of plastic waste far outweigh its benefits.”

Neutral Stance (Balanced Argument)

If you are taking a neutral stance, present an equal number of paragraphs for and against the motion. Make sure your points are balanced and avoid showing bias.

• For: Present two paragraphs in favor of the motion.
  • Example: “Renewable energy sources, like solar and wind power, have the potential to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and help combat climate change.”
• Against: Present two paragraphs against the motion.
  • Example: “However, renewable energy is expensive to install, and the technology is not always reliable. Developing countries, in particular, may struggle to adopt renewable energy sources due to high costs and limited access to technology.”

3. Conclusion

The conclusion is where you wrap up your arguments. Depending on your stance, the conclusion can take different forms:

• Support Pros First: If you are for the motion, summarize the advantages first, then briefly mention the disadvantages.
  • Example: “In conclusion, while renewable energy requires significant investment, its long-term benefits for both the environment and economic stability make it essential for a sustainable future.”
• Support Cons First: If you are against the motion, summarize the disadvantages first, then mention the advantages.
  • Example: “Although single-use plastics are convenient, the long-term environmental damage they cause makes it clear that we must move toward sustainable alternatives.”
• Balanced Conclusion: If you are neutral, mention both pros and cons equally.
  • Example: “Pollution remains a complex issue with both environmental and economic implications. Striking a balance between industrial development and environmental protection is essential for ensuring a sustainable future.”
• Open-Ended Conclusion: If you want to leave the reader thinking or encourage action, you can use an open-ended conclusion.
  • Example: “Given the arguments for and against stricter pollution control measures, it is up to us as individuals to make informed decisions about how we treat our environment.”

Tips for Writing an Effective Argumentative Composition

1. Research Thoroughly: Use trusted sources like books, journals, government reports, or reliable websites to back up your arguments. Avoid using information from untrustworthy sites.
   • Example: If you’re arguing about the benefits of renewable energy, cite reports from reputable organizations like the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).
2. Stay Logical: Each paragraph should follow a logical sequence. Present one idea per paragraph and back it up with evidence.
3. Use Clear Examples: Relating your argument to real-life examples can make your essay more convincing.
   • Example: “Sweden is a prime example of a country that has balanced industrial activity with environmental protection. In 2020, Sweden achieved its goal of becoming carbon-neutral.”
4. Be Objective: Even if you have strong opinions, avoid using emotional language. Focus on presenting facts and logical reasoning.
5. Revise and Edit: Always review your composition after writing. Check for spelling, grammar, and clarity. Make sure that your arguments are solid and that you have presented a balanced perspective.

Final Thoughts

Writing an argumentative composition is a great way to develop critical thinking and persuasive writing skills.

By following a clear structure, presenting balanced arguments, and backing up your claims with solid evidence, you will be able to write convincing essays that engage your readers.

Practice these skills regularly, and soon you’ll find that writing an argumentative composition becomes second nature.