Key Takeaways
- The argumentative essay requires you to take and defend a position on a given issue in 30 minutes.
- A strong thesis statement clearly states your position and previews your main supporting points.
- Support your argument with specific evidence, examples, and logical reasoning.
- Address counterarguments to strengthen your position and demonstrate critical thinking.
- Essays are scored 1-6 holistically based on focus, organization, development, and language use.
Argumentative Essay Writing
Quick Answer: The Praxis Core argumentative essay gives you 30 minutes to take and defend a position on an issue. Score 5-6 essays have a clear thesis, well-developed supporting arguments with evidence, effective counterargument acknowledgment, logical organization, and generally correct grammar. Focus on argument quality over length.
The argumentative essay is one of two essays on the Writing subtest. You have 30 minutes to read a prompt, take a position, and write a persuasive essay defending your view.
Argumentative Essay Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Time | 30 minutes |
| Task | Take a position and defend it with evidence and reasoning |
| Scoring | 1-6 holistic scale |
| Format | Typed on computer with basic word processing |
| Goal | Demonstrate clear, logical, persuasive writing |
Essay Structure
Recommended Format (5 Paragraphs)
| Section | Purpose | Content |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction | Hook + Context + Thesis | Engage reader, provide background, state clear position |
| Body 1 | Strongest argument | Topic sentence + evidence + explanation |
| Body 2 | Second argument | Topic sentence + evidence + explanation |
| Body 3 | Counterargument + Rebuttal | Acknowledge opposition, then refute |
| Conclusion | Summary + Final thought | Restate thesis, summarize points, end memorably |
Thesis Statement Development
A strong thesis is specific, arguable, and previews your reasoning.
Thesis Formula
[Topic] + [Position] + [Reasons/Preview]
Thesis Examples
| Weak Thesis | Strong Thesis |
|---|---|
| Technology is important in education. | Technology enhances education by increasing student engagement, providing personalized learning opportunities, and preparing students for a digital workforce. |
| Schools should have dress codes. | Mandatory school uniforms improve academic performance by reducing distractions, promoting equality among students, and creating a more professional learning environment. |
| Reading is good for children. | Daily reading programs in elementary schools are essential because they build vocabulary, improve comprehension skills, and foster a lifelong love of learning. |
Supporting Your Argument
Types of Evidence
| Evidence Type | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Statistics/Data | Numerical support | "Studies show 85% of employers value communication skills." |
| Expert opinion | Authority support | "According to education researcher John Hattie..." |
| Examples | Specific instances | "For instance, Finland's education system demonstrates..." |
| Anecdotes | Personal/observed experiences | "In my experience as a teacher..." |
| Logical reasoning | Cause-effect, if-then | "If students learn critical thinking, then they will be better prepared for..." |
The PEEL Paragraph Structure
| Element | Function | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Point | Topic sentence stating your claim | Technology increases student engagement. |
| Evidence | Facts, examples, data | Research by Stanford University found that interactive software increased participation by 40%. |
| Explanation | Connect evidence to claim | This demonstrates that digital tools capture students' attention in ways traditional lectures cannot. |
| Link | Connect back to thesis | Therefore, technology is a powerful tool for improving educational outcomes. |
Addressing Counterarguments
Acknowledging and refuting opposing views strengthens your essay.
Counterargument Strategies
| Strategy | How It Works | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Acknowledge and refute | State the opposition, then explain why it's wrong | "Critics argue that technology is distracting; however, with proper classroom management..." |
| Concede but minimize | Accept a point but show it's outweighed | "While cost is a concern, the long-term benefits far exceed the initial investment." |
| Reframe | Show the counterargument actually supports you | "What opponents call 'distraction' is actually increased engagement with material." |
Counterargument Sentence Starters
| Function | Phrases |
|---|---|
| Introducing opposition | Some argue that..., Critics claim that..., Opponents suggest... |
| Transitioning to rebuttal | However..., Nevertheless..., Despite this view..., Yet... |
| Refuting | This argument fails because..., This overlooks..., In reality... |
Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt
Prompt: Some educators believe that students should be required to learn a second language beginning in elementary school, while others argue that language instruction should be optional and offered later in a student's education.
In your essay, take a position on this issue. You may write about either point of view or any perspective presented, or you may present a different point of view on the issue. Use specific reasons and examples to support your position.
Sample Thesis Responses
| Position | Thesis Example |
|---|---|
| For early language learning | Mandatory second language instruction should begin in elementary school because young children acquire languages more easily, bilingualism enhances cognitive development, and early exposure promotes cultural awareness in an increasingly global society. |
| Against mandatory early learning | While language learning has benefits, requiring second language instruction in elementary school would strain limited resources, add pressure to an already crowded curriculum, and prove less effective than instruction when students are mature enough to choose their own focus. |
Scoring Rubric Summary
| Score | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| 6 (Outstanding) | Clear, well-developed argument; strong evidence; addresses counterarguments; excellent organization; few errors |
| 5 (Strong) | Clear argument with good support; logical organization; addresses complexity; minor errors don't impede understanding |
| 4 (Adequate) | Clear position with reasonable support; generally organized; some development; noticeable errors but meaning clear |
| 3 (Limited) | Position stated but weakly supported; organization issues; limited development; errors interfere with meaning |
| 2 (Weak) | Unclear position or minimal support; poor organization; undeveloped; frequent errors impede understanding |
| 1 (Deficient) | No clear position; no meaningful support; incoherent; pervasive errors |
Time Management Strategy
| Time | Task |
|---|---|
| Minutes 1-3 | Read prompt, decide position, brainstorm 3 reasons |
| Minutes 3-5 | Create brief outline |
| Minutes 5-25 | Write essay (intro, body paragraphs, conclusion) |
| Minutes 25-30 | Review and edit for errors |
Common Argumentative Essay Mistakes
| Mistake | How to Avoid |
|---|---|
| No clear thesis | State your position directly in the introduction |
| Listing without explaining | After each point, explain why it matters |
| Ignoring counterarguments | Dedicate at least one paragraph to opposing views |
| No specific evidence | Use examples, data, or reasoning—not just opinions |
| Running out of time | Follow the time management strategy; don't over-plan |
| No conclusion | Always include a conclusion, even if brief |
Which thesis statement is MOST effective for an argumentative essay?
What is the BEST approach when addressing a counterargument in an argumentative essay?
A student writes: "Schools should have longer lunch periods. Everyone knows this would be better. Students would be happier and healthier." What is the main weakness of this argument?
According to the Praxis Core Writing scoring rubric, which characteristic distinguishes a score of 5-6 from a score of 3-4?