ARGUMENTATIVE TEXT: MATERIAL
Definition
Argumentative Text is a type of text that presents a writer’s opinion or position about an issue and supports that position with logical reasons, evidence, facts, or examples.
The main purpose is to make readers understand, consider, or accept the writer’s point of view.
An argumentative text usually discusses an issue that may have different opinions or perspectives.
Examples of Issues
- Should students be allowed to use smartphones at school?
- Is social media beneficial for teenagers?
- Should school uniforms be mandatory?
- Should students have homework every day?
- Is online learning better than face-to-face learning?
Simple Formula
Argumentative Text = Issue + Position + Arguments + Evidence + Conclusion
Purpose of Argumentative Text
An argumentative text may have several purposes.
A. To Express an Opinion
The writer presents a clear opinion or position about an issue.
Students should be allowed to use smartphones for educational purposes.
B. To Convince the Reader
The writer provides reasons and evidence to make the argument convincing.
Instead of simply saying:
I think social media is bad.
The writer explains why:
Excessive use of social media can negatively affect students’ concentration.
C. To Present Different Perspectives
A strong argumentative text may recognize an opposing point of view.
Some people believe that social media helps teenagers communicate more easily. However, excessive use of social media can create several problems.
This shows that the writer understands that an issue can have different perspectives.
Generic Structure
An argumentative text generally consists of four main parts:
- Introduction
- Arguments
- Counter-Argument
- Conclusion
A. Introduction
The Introduction introduces the topic or issue and presents the writer’s main position.
It usually contains:
- background information;
- the issue;
- the writer’s position;
- the thesis statement.
What is a Thesis Statement?
A thesis statement is the main statement that shows the writer’s position toward the issue.
Example:
Social media has become an important part of teenagers’ lives. However, excessive use of social media can have more negative effects than positive ones.
The second sentence shows the writer’s position.
Key Question
What is the issue, and what does the writer believe about it?
B. Arguments
The Arguments section provides reasons that support the writer’s position.
A strong argument can follow this pattern:
Claim → Reason → Evidence/Example
Claim
The main point or argument.
Excessive use of social media can reduce students’ concentration.
Reason
An explanation of why the claim is valid.
Students who constantly check social media may find it difficult to focus on their studies.
Evidence or Example
Information that strengthens the argument.
For example, students may stop studying several times to check messages or social media notifications.
The stronger the reasoning and supporting evidence, the more convincing the argument becomes.
C. Counter-Argument
A counter-argument presents an opinion that is different from or opposite to the writer’s position.
The writer then responds to that opposing view.
Example:
Some people argue that social media helps teenagers communicate with friends and access information.
This is the opposing view.
The writer may respond:
However, excessive online interaction may reduce face-to-face communication and create other social problems.
Basic Pattern
Opposing View → Response → Writer’s Position
A counter-argument makes an argumentative text stronger because it shows that the writer has considered another perspective.
D. Conclusion
The Conclusion closes the discussion.
It usually:
- summarizes the main arguments;
- restates the writer’s position;
- gives a recommendation or suggestion when appropriate.
A conclusion should generally not introduce a completely new argument.
Example:
In conclusion, although social media provides many benefits, excessive use can negatively affect teenagers’ concentration and social interaction. Therefore, teenagers should use social media wisely and maintain a healthy balance between online and offline activities.
Structure at a Glance
| Structure | Main Function |
|---|---|
| Introduction | Introduces the issue and writer’s position |
| Arguments | Gives reasons and evidence supporting the position |
| Counter-Argument | Presents and responds to an opposing view |
| Conclusion | Summarizes and reinforces the writer’s position |
Easy Formula
ISSUE → POSITION → ARGUMENTS → COUNTER-ARGUMENT → CONCLUSION
Language Features
A. Simple Present Tense
Argumentative texts commonly use the Simple Present Tense because they discuss facts, opinions, general situations, and current issues.
Examples:
Social media affects teenagers’ behavior.
Technology provides many educational opportunities.
Students need enough time to rest.
B. Modal Verbs
Modal verbs are commonly used to express suggestions, obligations, possibilities, or opinions.
| Modal | Function | Example |
|---|---|---|
| should | recommendation | Students should use technology wisely. |
| must | obligation | Schools must provide a safe environment. |
| can | ability/possibility | Technology can help students learn. |
| could | possibility | Online learning could provide greater flexibility. |
| might | possibility | Excessive screen time might affect students’ concentration. |
C. Connective Words
Connective words connect ideas and make an argument more organized.
Adding Ideas
- firstly
- secondly
- moreover
- furthermore
- in addition
- besides
Example:
Furthermore, technology provides students with access to a wide range of information.
Showing Contrast
- however
- although
- on the other hand
- in contrast
- nevertheless
Example:
However, technology can also create distractions.
Showing Cause and Effect
- because
- since
- therefore
- thus
- as a result
- consequently
Example:
Students spend too much time online. As a result, they may have less time to study.
Concluding
- in conclusion
- to sum up
- overall
- therefore
Opinion and Argument
Students need to understand the difference between an opinion and an argument.
Opinion
I think students should read more books.
This only tells us what the writer thinks.
Argument
Students should read more books because reading can improve their vocabulary and comprehension.
Now the writer gives a reason.
Strong Argument
Students should read more books because regular reading can improve vocabulary and comprehension. For example, students who regularly read academic texts are exposed to a wider range of words and sentence structures.
Now the writer provides:
Opinion + Reason + Example
Remember
Opinion = What you think
Argument = Why you think it
Strong Argument = Why you think it + Evidence/Example
Argumentative Text vs. Discussion Text
Argumentative Text and Discussion Text are similar because both may discuss an issue from different perspectives. However, their main focus is different.
| Argumentative Text | Discussion Text |
|---|---|
| Supports a particular position | Discusses different sides of an issue |
| The writer usually has a clear position | The discussion may be more balanced |
| Focuses on building a convincing argument | Focuses on presenting and examining different views |
| Uses reasons and evidence to support the position | Presents arguments for and/or against an issue |
Easy Way to Remember
Argumentative Text:
“Here is why my position is stronger.”
Discussion Text:
“Here are the different perspectives on this issue.”
Example of an Argumentative Text
The Impact of Social Media on Teenagers
Introduction
In today’s digital era, social media has become an important part of teenagers’ lives. It allows young people to communicate, share information, and express themselves. However, excessive use of social media can create several problems. This essay argues that the negative effects of excessive social media use can outweigh its benefits.
Arguments
Firstly, excessive social media use can reduce students’ concentration. Teenagers who constantly check their phones may find it difficult to focus on their studies.
Secondly, social media can affect teenagers’ mental well-being. Constant exposure to unrealistic lifestyles and online comparisons may make young people feel insecure about themselves.
Furthermore, social media can provide useful educational opportunities. Students can access learning materials, educational videos, and information from different sources.
Counter-Argument
Some people argue that social media helps teenagers maintain relationships and communicate with others. This is true to some extent. However, excessive online interaction may reduce face-to-face communication and lead to social isolation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, social media provides many benefits, especially for communication and education. Nevertheless, excessive use can negatively affect teenagers’ concentration, mental well-being, and social interaction. Therefore, teenagers should use social media wisely and maintain a healthy balance between their online and offline activities.
How to Analyze an Argumentative Text
When answering an argumentative-text question, do not immediately translate the entire text.
Use the following steps.
Step 1 — Identify the Issue
Ask:
What issue is being discussed?
Step 2 — Find the Thesis Statement
Ask:
What is the writer’s position?
Look for the sentence that expresses the writer’s main opinion.
Step 3 — Find the Main Arguments
Ask:
Why does the writer have this opinion?
Identify the main reasons supporting the writer’s position.
Step 4 — Find the Evidence
Ask:
What supports the argument?
Look for:
- facts;
- examples;
- explanations;
- data;
- expert opinions.
Step 5 — Identify the Counter-Argument
Ask:
What does the opposing side believe?
Then determine how the writer responds to that opinion.
Step 6 — Identify the Conclusion
Ask:
What does the writer finally believe?
The answer is usually found in the final paragraph.
🎯 QUICK REVIEW
Remember the basic structure:
ISSUE
↓
THESIS / POSITION
↓
ARGUMENT + EVIDENCE
↓
COUNTER-ARGUMENT + RESPONSE
↓
CONCLUSION
And when analyzing an argumentative text, ask:
What is the issue?
What does the writer believe?
Why does the writer believe it?
What does the opposing side say?
How does the writer respond?
What is the final conclusion?