Building an argument that climbs

English · Writing Composition · ages 15-16

Name ______________________ Date ____________

How should paragraphs be ordered?
- Longest paragraph first
- New idea in each, unconnected
- So each later point depends on an earlier one
What makes a strong thesis?
- One arguable sentence with reasons built in
- A fact nobody disputes
- Three claims hedged together
You should answer the weakest version of the other side.
Circle one: True False
A paragraph serves neither the thesis nor its neighbours. What is the fix?
- Cut it or fix the thesis
- Move it to the opening
- Repeat it at the close
Your critic's best point stings. What do you do?
- Hide it from the reader
- Concede it fairly, then show your line holds
- Mock the critic instead
The conclusion should restate the claim in light of the proof.
Circle one: True False
Where does your strongest evidence belong?
- Scattered evenly everywhere
- Held back to the end, with the chain behind it
- Hidden in the introduction
An essay beats a feeble counter and claims victory. What is missing?
- A longer introduction
- More examples on its own side
- The strongest counter, honestly answered

Answer key

For grown-ups. Fold this page away before handing over the rest.

So each later point depends on an earlier one · Arguments climb. Each step must stand on the last.
One arguable sentence with reasons built in · One sentence, one argument, no hedging. Dispute is the fuel.
False · Weak counters prove nothing. Meet the best version head on.
Cut it or fix the thesis · Every paragraph must serve the chain. Loose ones go or reshape the claim.
Concede it fairly, then show your line holds · Honest concession hardens your line. Dodging weakens it.
True · The claim returns proven. The chain behind it gives it weight.
Held back to the end, with the chain behind it · Strong ground closes. The full chain makes it land hardest.
The strongest counter, honestly answered · Victory over a straw view is hollow. The best case must fall.