Introduction
Greetings Grade 10!
In this WebQuest you are going to learn how to write an argumentative essay.
- For an introduction to the topic covered, please watch the following video:
Task
You have been tasked with writing an argumentative essay.
- Write an argumentative essay of 300-350 words in length of the following topic:
Online learning is better than face-to-face learning.
- Refer to the following resource for an example of an argumentative essay and the general features:
https://my.uq.edu.au/files/10945/example-argumentative-essay.pdf
- We shall now proceed on with the writing process.
Process
Follow the steps provided to help you complete your essay.
STEP 1: PLAN YOUR ESSAY - consult resource number 1
- Research your topic.
- Separate the negative and positive points.
- Choose whether you AGREE or DISAGREE with the topic - You HAVE to take a stance.
- Choose TWO points supporting your argument and ONE point opposing your argument.
- Brainstorm ideas for and against the topic using a mind-map/ diagram.
- WRITE YOUR FIRST DRAFT!!!
Essay Format:
- Introduction (Thesis statement) - consult resource number 2
- Body paragraph (supporting argument)
- Body paragraph (supporting argument)
- Body paragraph (opposing argument)
- Conclusion (Restate your main argument by summarizing) - consult resource number 3
Write each body paragraph using the PEEL method: consult resource number 4
P - Point
E - Evidence
E - Explanation
L - Link
STEP 2: REVISING AND EDITING YOUR FIRST DRAFT - consult resource number 5
When editing your first draft check the following aspects:
- Format (paragraphs and length of sentences)
- Content (Is the content relevant, accurate and logically developed?)
- Spelling and Punctuation
- Grammar
STEP 3: PRESENT YOUR FINAL DRAFT
- After revising and editing your first draft, rewrite your essay neatly and legibly
Resources:
- Watch the following video on how to plan your essay:
- Watch the following video on how to write an eye-catching introduction:
https://youtu.be/msaynBwwxkA - How to use the PEEL Method for the Body Paragraphs:
https://youtu.be/tn62_f1wSXE - Watch the following video on how to write a strong Conclusion:
https://youtu.be/2UElC_YZ0Eo - Watch the following video to help you with the revision and editing process:
https://youtu.be/z_x8ZbsCU4c
Evaluation
SELF-ASSESSMENT:
- Once you have finished rewriting your final draft, use the following checklist to ensure that all aspects of the argumentative essay are included:
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CHECKLIST |
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I started my essay with an enticing hook, and I did not use the words “agree” or “disagree” in my introduction. |
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I am not sticking to one viewpoint (lapsing into discursive writing) |
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I gave my readers food for thought. |
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I am giving opinions and making statements with no examples thereof or substantiation. |
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I have answered the question. |
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My planning is poor which leads to a muddled and unclear argument. |
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I provided proper evidence to back my arguments. |
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I am forgetting to constantly refer back to the thesis statement as I plan the essay. |
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My arguments are clear and specific. |
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I have made language and spelling errors. |
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My conclusion summarizes my arguments and emphasizes my thesis. |
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I am forcing my opinion on my reader. |
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The length of my essay is 300 – 350 words. |
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I am using slang or informal language. |
- You may also access the following checklist using the link provided, if you prefer to download and print it: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rcOeSa-PeCyZDb0ydGMZT-fT_3oPPuZS/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=105060118832140930088&rtpof=true&sd=true
- After using the checklist you may now submit your essay on the link provided in Google Classroom.
FORMAL ASSESSMENT:
- Your essay will be assessed using the following rubric:
https://pier.macmillan.yale.edu/sites/default/files/files/Argumentative%20essay%20rubric.pdf
Conclusion
After this WebQuest you should now be:
- able to understand the features of an argumentative essay
- able to write and produce an argumentative essay
- better equipped to express a specific view.
This will assist with your creative writing assessment as well as research tasks.