Assignment Sheet: Argument Paper

The strongest argument paper will not only argue its points well, but also find ways to diffuse potential opposition. Think of the opposing arguments like bombs. The bombs will not blow up in your face if you diffuse them by addressing the opposition's concerns in your paper.

Sometimes it is hard to think about the opposite point of view, especially when you feel strongly about the perspective from which you are arguing. Here are a few hints about how to recognize potential weaknesses in and opposition to your argument.

Make a list of the points of your argument. What ideas represent the opposite points of view? Which of these arguments are likely to be raised against you?
Does your argument, or at least the way you described it, rely on specific conditions? For example, will only rich people be able to access the materials or resources upon which your argument relies? Will your argument only work when the sun shines, but fall apart when it rains? Address such conditions in your paper to broaden your argument's application or to narrow the argument's application to a specific group of people or a specific situation.
Research and/or interview a variety of sources to get a sense about how a mix of people feel about your argument and issue. Identify people or groups who support and oppose your argument. Address both arguments in your paper.

Back To The Paper Bank

The OWL is an extension of the Community College of Denver Writing Center.
For more information contact

Bret Hann, Writing Center Coordinator
303-556-4709

This project was made possible in part by a grant from the Technology Learning Grant and Revolving Loan Program, State of Colorado, Department of Higher Education. We are also grateful for the ongoing support of Colorado Community Colleges Online (CCCOnline).

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