1.3 Developing paragraphs as part of an effective argument

3 min read•june 18, 2024

Sahithi Morla

AP English Language ✍🏽

224 resources

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Welcome to 1.3! Raise your hand if you’re excited to learn how to develop paragraphs in an effective argument. 🙋

What is the Purpose of Paragraphs?

Paragraphs are units of writing that are made up of a group of sentences that focus on a single topic or idea. These sentences are typically organized logically and coherently and work together to support the overall argument or main idea of the piece of writing. Paragraphs are used in various forms of writing, such as essays, research papers, and articles. They are important in organizing and developing ideas. They are also used to signal a change of topic or provide evidence supporting a thesis statement. Generally, a paragraph consists of a topic sentence, several supporting sentences, and a concluding sentence.

Paragraph Structure

Each paragraph should follow the AEC structure.

A	An assertion is a statement or claim that is made without providing evidence or proof. It is a declaration of something to be true or real, based on the speaker or writer's belief or understanding. n argumentative writing, assertions are used to present the writer's position on a topic.
E	Evidence refers to any information that is used to support or refute a claim or assertion. It can take many forms such as facts, data, statistics, testimonials, examples, observations, expert opinions, and research studies.
C	The commentary provides a deeper understanding of the subject or text being analyzed. It usually includes the writer's or speaker's own thoughts, insights, and opinions on the topic.

What is an Effective Argument?

An effective argument includes:

A clear and specific thesis statement.
Evidence that supports the thesis.
Logical reasoning that connects the evidence to the thesis.

Additionally, an effective argument often includes counterarguments and refutations, as well as an acknowledgment of the complexity of the issue being discussed. The language and style of the argument should be appropriate for the audience and purpose and be effectively organized and well-written. 📑

How to Develop Paragraphs as part of an Effective Argument

To develop effective paragraphs as part of an argument, you can follow these steps:

Begin each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that relates to the thesis and previews the main point of the paragraph.
Provide evidence, examples, or anecdotes to support the topic sentence. This evidence should be relevant, credible, and appropriate for the audience and purpose.
Use logical reasoning to connect the evidence to the topic sentence and thesis. This will help strengthen the argument and clarify the connection between the evidence and the overall argument.
Include transition words and phrases to link the paragraphs together and to guide the reader through the argument.
Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion paragraph. Instead, summarize the main points of the argument and restate the thesis.
Finally, proofread and edit your work for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. A polished and well-written argument will be more effective in persuading your audience.

It is essential to remember that the organization of your argument is key 🔑. Make sure to structure your argument in a way that is easy to follow and makes logical sense.

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🤔Exam Skills

🥇Unit 1 – Claims, Reasoning, & Evidence

1.0Unit 1 Overview: Claims, Reasoning, and Evidence

1.1Identifying the purpose and intended audience of a text

1.2Examining how evidence supports a claim

1.3Developing paragraphs as part of an effective argument

🗂️Unit 2 – Organizing Information for a Specific Audience

👀Unit 3 – Perspectives & How Arguments Relate

🔚Unit 4 – How writers develop arguments, intros, & conclusions

🎀Unit 5 – How a writer brings all parts of an argument together

👥Unit 6 – Position, Perspective, & Bias