Introduction
An argumentative essay is one of the most common types of essays students are assigned in school. The goal of an argumentative essay is to convince the reader of the validity of a particular perspective on a contentious issue. Argumentative essays require thorough research to support assertions made and provide counterarguments to differing positions on the issue. There are several different types of argumentative essays that students may need to write depending on the topic and requirements of the assignment. This article explores five main types of argumentative essays that students often encounter.
Evaluative Argument
The evaluative argument, sometimes called an evaluative essay, requires students to make a judgment or evaluation on something based on established criteria. The topic being evaluated could be a book, movie, consumer product, performance, service, policy, etc. For example, a student may be asked to write an evaluative argument on which is the best smartphone on the market based on factors like cost, features, battery life, design, customer reviews and so on. Thesis statement of an evaluative argument clearly states an opinion on the relative merits of the topic based on predetermined evaluation criteria. Body paragraphs present evidence from research to support the thesis by discussing how the topic compares based on each individual criterion. Conclusion restates the thesis opinion on the overall merits of the topic based on the combined criteria analysis.
Causal Argument
A causal argument focuses on determining the causes or reasons behind a particular phenomenon or situation. The thesis presents the main cause believed to be responsible for something. Body paragraphs then logically explain how this cause leads to or results in the observed effect or condition. Evidence from research is used to support each step in the causal chain linking cause to effect. Counterarguments to other possible causes are addressed and refuted. Conclusion summarizes the overall causal relationship established between the stated cause and observed effect based on evidence presented. For example, a causal argument essay may explore the reasons behind an increase in youth obesity by presenting evidence that increased consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages is a primary cause.
Evaluative-Causal Hybrid
Some argumentative essays require combining elements of both evaluation and causation approaches. Such evaluative-causal hybrid essays first present criteria for evaluation similar to a pure evaluative argument. Rather than simply stating which topic merits a higher evaluation, the thesis and body paragraphs go on to explain how one topic’s superior evaluation based on presented criteria causes it to be more desirable or preferable compared to alternatives. Counterarguments are addressed by discussing how alternative topics rate lower based on criteria or how their relative weaknesses cause them to be less optimal choices. The conclusion restates the interconnected evaluative and causal relationship favoring one topic over others based on the combined criteria analysis and causal logic presented. This hybrid model allows for a more comprehensive style of argumentation.
Proposition of Action
While some essays only argue a position or cause, a proposition of action argument aims to convince the reader to support or take a specific action on an issue. Thesis clearly states what action should be taken. Body paragraphs provide logical, evidence-based reasons why the proposed action is necessary, beneficial or the optimal choice compared to alternatives. Counterarguments regarding other proposed actions or the status quo are addressed and refuted. Conclusion powerfully reiterates why supporting or taking the specified action is most prudent based on the reasoning and evidence given. For example, a proposition of action essay may argue local government should allocate more funding for public transportation based on congestion, environmental and economic benefits analysis.
Refutation
The refutation argument goes beyond just stating a position to instead directly confront and dispute opposing viewpoints on a controversial issue with counterarguments. Thesis does not just state the author’s position, but specifies which contrary position(s) will be addressed and refuted. Body paragraphs discuss the key reasons or evidence presented by a counterposition before providing well-supported counterarguments to rebut each major concern raised. Alternative perspectives receive fair but critical consideration before being refuted with logic and additional evidence. Conclusion does not merely restate the author’s position but emphasizes how the counterarguments refuted opposing viewpoints such that the author’s position stands as most reasonable and supported. Students may craft refutation essays on ongoing policy debates involving contesting positions, for example.
Conclusion
Argumentative essays come in a variety of formats depending on the topic and purpose of the argument being made. The evaluative, causal, evaluative-causal hybrid, proposition of action and refutation types represent common argument structures students may need to employ. Whichever type is assigned, thorough research and presentation of evidence are needed to support assertions, address counterarguments and convince readers of a particular perspective on a contentious issue. With practice analyzing different types of argumentative essays, students can develop strong argumentation skills applicable across many subjects.
Andrew Stroud