Grade 7 · Writing to Argue · Argument Essays and Presentations
Writing an Argument Essay
Plan and draft a four-paragraph argument with a counter-argument and a rebuttal.
Learning objectives
- Write a thesis with a reason attached
- Structure body paragraphs with CER
- Answer a counter-argument with a rebuttal
Common Core ELA alignment
W.7.1
Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence, acknowledging alternate or opposing claims. Grade 7 emphasis: analyse how choices in a text create effects, and handle two related texts independently.
W.7.4
Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization and style are appropriate to task, purpose and audience. Grade 7 emphasis: analyse how choices in a text create effects, and handle two related texts independently.
W.7.5
Develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting or trying a new approach. Grade 7 emphasis: analyse how choices in a text create effects, and handle two related texts independently.
MYP criteria
- Criterion B — Organizing
- Criterion C — Producing text
- Criterion D — Using language
ENGAGE
The strongest essays argue with themselves
Weak essays list reasons. Strong essays admit the best objection and answer it. That single move is usually the difference between a good grade and a top one.
Think about it
- Why does admitting an objection make you more convincing?
- What is the risk of ignoring one?
EXPLAIN
The four-paragraph frame
| Paragraph | Contents |
|---|---|
| Introduction | Context in one sentence, then a thesis: claim plus because plus reason. |
| Body 1 | Strongest reason, evidence, reasoning, link. |
| Body 2 | Counter-argument stated fairly, then rebuttal with evidence. |
| Conclusion | Restate the thesis differently and answer so what. |
Thesis formula
- Weak: This essay is about homework.
- Better: Homework should be capped at one hour a night because unlimited tasks harm sleep more than they raise results.
Rebuttal language
- Admittedly, ... However, ...
- While it is true that ..., the evidence shows ...
- This objection matters, but it applies only when ...
Common mistake
A counter-argument you never answer is not balance, it is a hole in your essay.
EXPLORE
Fix a thesis
- I will talk about school uniform.
- School uniform is good.
- School uniform should stay because it reduces the visible cost pressure on families.
Think about it
- Rank the three from weakest to strongest and say why.
- Write a counter-argument to the strongest one, plus a rebuttal.
MYP_PRACTICE
Criterion B, C and D task
Write a four-paragraph argument essay of 350 to 450 words on a question you care about. Requirements: a because thesis, at least two pieces of cited evidence, one full counter-argument with rebuttal, and a conclusion that does not simply repeat the introduction.
- Plan in a four-box outline first.
- Draft without editing.
- Revise for structure, then proofread for sentence errors.
EXIT_TICKET
Check yourself
Think about it
- Write your thesis in one sentence.
- What is the best objection to it?
Interactive practice · outline builder
Build the four-box outline
Complete each box before drafting: thesis, strongest reason with evidence, counter plus rebuttal, and so what.
Boxes
Your answer
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Key vocabulary
- Thesis
- The sentence stating your claim and main reason.
- Counter-argument
- The strongest point against your claim, stated fairly.
- Rebuttal
- Your reasoned answer to the counter-argument.
- Cohesion
- The linking that makes paragraphs flow logically.
Practice questions
0/2 correct
Level 1 · Criterion B
Which is the strongest thesis?
Level 2 · Criterion C
Where does the rebuttal belong?
MYP criterion tasks
Level 3 · Criterion B
Write a counter-argument and rebuttal for the uniform thesis.
Reflect & track
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