QUESTION 3: Argument Essay QuickAdvice
1. GOAL--persuasion (if you're not developing an argument you missed the point)
2. Must have a THESIS (statement of your stance/opinion)
3. THESIS should at least partially answer the question posed in the prompt!
4. You have to answer the question the prompt asks--not the question you wish it asked! Otherwise, you can't score above 3/6.
5. A way to set up a thesis: "Although many may feel that _____________, thesis goes here______________________.
5.5. Consider starting intro with a scenario
5.75. OR just write a traditional intro with some sort of qualified universal truth followed by thoughts that lead to a thesis.
6. Line of Reasoning will come naturally with a thesis and topic sentences with transitions. (See blog on how easy LOR actually is) https://tracetheelateacher.blogspot.com/2026/03/demystifying-lor-for-ap-english-relax.html
7. Body paragraphs--each is a mini argument proving/addressing your thesis/stance
8. Body paragraphs: Topic Sentence/Example(claim) /Support
9. Support is COMMENTARY--go heavy on explanation
10. Cool conclusion!!! Can be short (3-4 sentences)
11. You can start conclusion with a question if you are up against time
12. Conclusion: final reflective thoughts, touch on universal truth
13. Consider who this will affect most and why/how?
14. Conclusion's last line? consider a call to action!!!!
15. THIS ESSAY can definitely be voice-driven!
16. That said, use your sophisticated punctuation (colons, semi colons, dashes)\
17. Vary your syntax with purposeful repetition, the occassional question/answer
18. A question/answer mid-paragraph can lengthen your commentary!
19. You have to sound like you CARE about this prompt (whether you do or not)
20. It should be fresh, interesting, and convincing
21. Anecdotes are a go!
21.5. It is FINE to use PERSONAL EXPERIENCE *develops ethos if appropriate for this question
22. Scenarios are a go! A quick scenario can be good for an intro or to further develop a point!!
23. Rebuttal section can be GOOD--it shows you have looked at at least the main objection other side would offer. It also adds commentary and a fresh angle
24. Rebuttal--you can concede--opponent is partially right, BUT consider this..
25. Rebuttal--otherwise blow opposing point out of the water!
24. Defending the idea in the prompt works!
25. Challening the idea in the prompt works and is sometimes more interesting!
26. Qualifying in some cases makes you sound more logical--"For most people" instead of "Everyone feels..."
26.5. Try not to let qualifying make you seem indecisive--use INTENTIONAL qualification
27. Ummmm....go back and read the darn prompt. Are you answering THE question they are asking?
28. See PEER HUGO and SEE IT below for possible topic ideas
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