Statement of fact:

Small cars get better fuel mileage than 4x4 pickup trucks.

Arguable thesis statement:

The government should ban 4x4 pickup trucks except for work-related use.

Statement of fact:

Foul language is common in movies.

Arguable thesis statement:

The amount of foul language in movies is disproportionate to the amount of foul language in real life.

Statement of fact:

Most students use electronic devices for studying and research.

Arguable thesis statement:

Schools should implement a ban on the use of electronic devices in classrooms to enhance focus and academic performance.

Statement of fact:

Fast food consumption is linked to obesity and health issues.

Arguable thesis statement:

Governments should impose higher taxes on fast food to discourage unhealthy eating habits and alleviate the burden on public healthcare systems.

Statement of fact:

Social media platforms play a significant role in shaping public opinion.

Arguable thesis statement:

Social media companies should be held accountable for regulating the spread of misinformation to ensure a more informed and responsible society.

Ang tesis na pangungusap (thesis statement)

Ang pinakabuod ng pananaliksik sapagkat dito inilalahad ang pangunahing ideya ng paksa. Kung tutuusin, ang paglalahad ng tesis ay paggigiit o pagpapahayag ng isang partikular na posisyon o paninindigan kaugnay ng isang paksa.

1. Kinakailangan munang magtukoy ng isang partikular na pangkalahatang paksa

2. Mula rito pwedeng humalaw ng higit na mas espesipiko at mas malinaw na ideyang nais patunayan o pabulaanan

3. Matapos sa pagtiyak ng isang interes ng mananaliksik, makakabuo ka na nang tesis na pangungusap.

Read this example of an argumentative essay. 

SHOULD LIBRARIES BE REPLACED BY TABLETS? 

As online learning becomes more common and more resources are converted to digital form, some people have suggested that public libraries should be shut down and, in their place, everyone should be given a device with an e-reader subscription. 

Proponents of this ideas state that it will help people save money because libraries are expensive to maintain. They also believe it will encourage more people to read because they won’t have to travel to a library to get a book; they can simply click on what they want to read and read it from wherever they are. They could also access more materials because libraries won’t have to buy physical copies of books; they can simply rent out as many digital copies as they need. 

However, it would be a serious mistake to replace libraries with tablets. First, digital books and resources are associated with less learning and more problems than print resources. A study done on tablet vs book reading found that people read 20-30% slower than tablets, retain 20% less information, and understand 10% less of what they read compared to people who read the same information in print. should not add to these problems by giving people, especially young people, more reasons to look at screens. 

While replacing libraries with tablets may seem like a simple solution, it would encourage people to spend even more time looking at digital screens, despite the myriad issues surrounding them. It would also end access to many of the benefits of libraries that people have come to rely on. In many areas, libraries are such an important part of the community network that they could never be replaced by a simple object. 

Directions/ Instructions:

After studying the parts of an argumentative essay, it is time for you to start with the steps in writing an argumentative essay by following the simple steps provided in the chart/table below. 

Activity A. IDENTIFYING PARTS OF AN ESSAY. Before you start writing your own argumentative essay, you should be knowledgeable on the necessary parts of an argumentative essay which helps to make your points clear and strong. Be guided by the table below in identifying the parts of an argumentative essay and write the sentences on your paper.  

Sample Argumentative Essay

Skills vs. Knowledge in Education

Jonan Donaldson

Most education systems all over the world are based on the idea that students get and remember information from teachers and books. These systems test this knowledge with standardized tests which compare students to each-other. They only test the kind of information which is possible to measure in tests. The goal is gaining information, not developing skills by which to use and make information. Unlike the old style of education where people remembered things in order to pass tests and get higher scores than other students, the modern world calls for a new kind of education in which the focus is deep understanding, creativity, and information management skills.

Most education systems in the world are designed to make students remember things. One reason is that schools feel the need to compare students. 

They do this by giving tests. They want to be able to give grades and decide which students are smart and which are not. They function as a sorting mechanism for society. From the earliest grades, students are put on tracks that will decide their futures. Another reason is that schools like to make students remember things is that by doing so they will be able to test their knowledge and determine if they remember or not. They believe that if students remember things it is the same as understanding those things. Schools also like to impart knowledge because in this way, although students can have different individual skills, they can all have the same knowledge.

In the modern world skills are more important than knowledge. If a person knows many facts, it is impressive, but not very useful. It is of much greater importance to be able to find information quickly, organize that information, analyze and understand the main ideas, put different pieces of information together (synthesize), and create new information. Together these skills make what we call information management and innovation, the skills which are most desired in the business world.

Introduction _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________. 

Body Part 1 – Evidence

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________. 

Body Part 2 - Counter-argument

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________. 

Body Part 3 – Rebuttal

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________. 

Conclusion

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________. 

Introduction:

An argumentative essay is a genre of writing that aims to persuade readers to adopt a certain viewpoint or take a specific action. It typically consists of a clear thesis statement, well-reasoned arguments, supporting evidence, and a counterargument. The goal is not just to present information but to engage readers in critical thinking and encourage them to form their own opinions on the topic.

Thesis Statement:

"In the 21st century, students face unique challenges in the digital age, and it is crucial for educational institutions to adapt their methods to foster critical thinking, digital literacy, and a holistic approach to student well-being."

Body Paragraphs:

Paragraph 1 - Digital Literacy:

In the contemporary era, students are surrounded by a constant influx of information through digital platforms. Therefore, it is essential to equip them with the skills to critically evaluate online content, discern reliable sources, and navigate the complexities of the digital landscape.

Paragraph 2 - Critical Thinking:

Critical thinking has become increasingly important in a world bombarded by diverse perspectives. Students need to develop the ability to analyze information, question assumptions, and construct well-reasoned arguments. This skill not only aids academic success but also prepares them for active participation in a globalized society.

Paragraph 3 - Holistic Student Well-being:

Beyond academics, the 21st-century student faces various socio-emotional challenges. Educational institutions should prioritize fostering a supportive environment that addresses mental health, emotional intelligence, and overall well-being. A balanced education considers the whole student, preparing them for success in both academic and personal spheres.

Counterargument:

While some argue that traditional educational methods are sufficient, it is evident that the rapidly evolving landscape requires adaptation. Ignoring the unique challenges of the 21st century may hinder students from fully realizing their potential in an ever-changing world.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, an argumentative essay provides a platform to discuss and advocate for necessary changes in educational approaches. Adapting to the needs of 21st-century students involves a focus on digital literacy, critical thinking, and holistic well-being, ensuring that they are not only academically prepared but also equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern world.

Sure, I can help you create a quiz about argumentative essays, including statements of fact and arguable thesis statements. Here are some questions:

Question: What is the primary purpose of an argumentative essay?

a) To inform

b) To entertain

c) To persuade

d) To describe

Question: Which of the following is an example of a statement of fact?

a) "Chocolate is the most popular flavor of ice cream."

b) "The government should implement stricter regulations on pollution."

c) "School uniforms improve academic performance."

d) "The internet has changed the way people communicate."

Question: True or False? A statement of fact is always arguable.

Question: What is the purpose of including evidence in an argumentative essay?

a) To confuse the reader

b) To make the essay longer

c) To support and strengthen the argument

d) To provide background information

Question: Identify the arguable thesis statement among the following:

a) "Climate change is a global issue that needs urgent attention."

b) "The government should invest more in renewable energy sources to combat climate change."

c) "Bananas are a rich source of potassium."

d) "Everyone should exercise regularly for a healthy lifestyle."

Question: Which of the following topics is more suitable for an argumentative essay?

a) "The benefits of drinking water"

b) "Should the government ban single-use plastic bags?"

c) "Different types of clouds"

d) "My favorite childhood memory"

Question: What distinguishes an arguable thesis statement from a statement of fact?

a) An arguable thesis is based on personal opinion, while a statement of fact is objective.

b) An arguable thesis can be debated or challenged, while a statement of fact is indisputable.

c) An arguable thesis is always longer than a statement of fact.

d) An arguable thesis is only found in the conclusion of an essay.

Question: In an argumentative essay, which section typically presents the opposing viewpoint and counterarguments?

a) Introduction

b) Body paragraphs

c) Conclusion

d) Thesis statement

Question: Which of the following statements would be more appropriate for an argumentative essay rather than an informative essay?

a) "The history of the Roman Empire"

b) "The importance of voting in a democracy"

c) "The life cycle of butterflies"

d) "How to bake a chocolate cake"

Question: What role does the thesis statement play in an argumentative essay?

a) It provides background information.

b) It summarizes the entire essay.

c) It presents the main argument and indicates the writer's stance.

d) It is optional and can be omitted.

Answers:

c) To persuade

a) "Chocolate is the most popular flavor of ice cream."

False

c) To support and strengthen the argument

b) "The government should invest more in renewable energy sources to combat climate change."

b) "Should the government ban single-use plastic bags?"

b) An arguable thesis can be debated or challenged, while a statement of fact is indisputable.

b) Body paragraphs

b) "The importance of voting in a democracy"

c) It presents the main argument and indicates the writer's stance.