Argumentative

Simply put, an argument is an opinion (claim) supported by evidence.

Evidence can take on different forms depending on the nature of the argument, the purpose of the argument, and the needs of the audience.

¨Something that is argumentative is not and does not necessarily have to attempt to persuade. An argument is simply an opinion supported by evidence; persuasion involves moving people to act.

On the AP test, you will be tasked with writing an argumentative essay. Typically, you will be given either a quotation or a short passage that presents a claim. You will be asked to do one of the following tasks:

¤Defend, challenge, or qualify (the assertion)

¤Take a position and support it with appropriate evidence

¤Discuss the pros and cons and then take a position

¤Discuss both sides of a controversy and then propose a resolution