April+14+-+How+to+write+a+Discursive+(Argument)+Essay+2

**Argumentative Essays (also known as Discursive Essays)**
====In an argumentative essay you give your __own opinion__ and then try to __convince other people__ you are right with your __reasons and examples__. You can see examples of the argumentative style of writing when you read editorial columns and letters in the NST.====

Before beginning to write an argumentative essay think about your own opinion and ask yourself:

 * ====Do you have a strong opinion?====
 * ====What have other people said on the subject and do you think they are right?====
 * ====Is there any other evidence (proof) you can think of to support your views?====

**To write an argumentative essay, use the following steps to help you:**

 * 1) ====Begin by introducing the debate topic in your own words.====
 * 2) ====Then write if you agree or disagree with the argument====
 * 3) ====Tell people why you hold that opinion and come up with ideas and examples to support (back up) your arguments. Try to put these ideas in an order with the most important ideas first and links between each idea so that the essay flows well.====
 * 4) ====Think about why people might have a different opinion (objections) and try to show why they are not important or they are not true.====
 * 5) ====Conclude with a brief summary and try to make a strong last sentence so that your readers will remember what you think and why they should agree with you.====