大学英语写作教程-第九单元.ppt

ARGUMENTATION WRITING The purpose of argumentation is to convince, so that the point in the argumentative paragraph or essay must be clear. The writer may try to make the reader agree his or her point of view or persuade the reader to change his mind or behavior. Additionally, the writers idea must be arguable. It cannot be a fact, for example, Beijing is the capital of China or personal preference, for example, Michael Jordan is my favorite basketball player. Otherwise, the argument will be meaningless. The other necessary elements in an argumentative essay are sufficient evidence and good logic. * Exploring the Main Traits on the Models How can you write an argumentation paragraph and essay? What are the main elements in them? You can first read the following model paragraphs: one is about punctuality; the other is about womens college education. After reading the two paragraphs and answering the analysis questions, you can find some similarities between them: * Model 1: An Argumentation Paragraph (1) When you are waiting in front of a theatre or at the train terminal, you will realize how important punctuality is. (2) Punctuality is really a virtue, especially in a modern city. (3) If everybody was punctual, there would be less suffering and sorrow. (4) Punctuality is the main constituent of good character. (5) A person who is on time for his appointment shows his real consideration for others. (6) On the other hand, a person who is always late shows his selfishness and thoughtlessness and he is not the person that is worthy to be friends with. (7) To be or not to be punctual is a habit. (8) So when we are young, we should try to be punctual every time and never be late for it is much more easily acquired in youth than when we are older. * Analysis Questions 1. About the content: a. What is the writers point of view about punctuality? b. How many good points of punctuality does the writer mention in the paragraph? What are they? c. What is the w