Argumentative essays have all of the elements that you would normally include in a paper: an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. However, arguments require two elements that you don’t need in an informative essay: an opposing claim and a rebuttal. Keep reading to learn about the elements of the argumentative essay, as well as a structure you can use for writing your arguments.

Argumentative Writing Elements: Claim, Evidence, Reasoning, Opposing Claim, Rebuttal

Example Elements

The following paragraph illustrates elements of the argument. Pay attention to the color-coding to identify each of the elements.

Printer-Friendly Handout

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Test your Knowledge!

Ready to test your mastery of argumentative elements? Take the Elements of Argument Quick Quiz!

Structuring an Argumentative Essay

Now that you have a command of the elements, let’s talk about structure. What do you do if you have to formulate your argument into an entire essay? Never fear! Below you’ll find two handy outlines to help you structure your brilliant ideas into an argumentative essay. (You might also want to check out these pages on introductions, body paragraphs, evidence, and conclusions for more explanation and examples.) 

Argumentative Essay Graphic Organizer: One Opposing Claim

This structure emphasizes reasons to support your claim. 

Argumentative Essay Graphic Organizer: One Opposing Claim

Argumentative Essay Graphic Organizer: Multiple Opposing Claims

This structure emphasizes rebuttals to refute (invalidate) the opposing point of view. 

Teaching Resources

More Arguments!

Get the expanded content, including blank graphic organizers, notes, activities, and example essays to help students write their own argumentative essays. Now available at the Super ELA! TPT Store.

Argumentative Essay Notes
Ultimate Argumentative Essay Bundle
Argumentative Essay Graphic Organizer (One Opposing Claim) + Example Essay
Argumentative Essay Graphic Organizer (Multiple Opposing Claims) + Example Essay
Argumentative Essay Graphic Organizers (One Opposing Claim and Multiple Opposing Claims) + Example Essay

Writing Concepts

Writing Strong Introductions
The Quote Sandwich
Writing Strong Conclusions
Write Strong Body Paragraphs with PEEL
Passive Voice vs. Active Voice
Types of Claims
CER Paragraphs
Elements of Argumentative Essays

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