How to Write an Argumentative Composition (Secondary School Guide)
- Sabreena Nazimudeen
- 11 minutes ago
- 4 min read
How to Write an Argumentative Composition (Secondary School Guide)
When students move into secondary school, composition writing changes significantly.
Instead of storytelling, students are now expected to present clear arguments, analyse ideas, and defend a position logically.
This is called argumentative writing.
Many students struggle at first because they are used to writing narratives with characters and events.However, argumentative writing is different. It requires reasoning, examples, and clear structure.
The good news is that once students understand the structure, it becomes very systematic and manageable.
The Basic Structure of an Argumentative Essay
An argumentative essay usually follows this structure:
1. Introduction
The introduction should:
Introduce the topic
Provide some context
Clearly state your stand
Example:
In recent years, social media has become an essential part of teenagers’ lives. While some believe that social media has negative effects on young people, others argue that it offers valuable opportunities for communication and learning. In my opinion, social media can be beneficial to teenagers if it is used responsibly.
The key is this:
Your reader should know exactly what your position is.
2. Body Paragraphs (Arguments)
Each paragraph should contain:
A clear point•
An explanation•
An example
Link back
For example:
Point: Firstly, social media allows teenagers to stay connected with their friends and family.
Explanation: This is especially important in today’s fast-paced world where people may not always have time to meet face-to-face.
Example: For instance, teenagers who move to a new school can still keep in touch with their old friends through messaging platforms and online communities.
Linkback: Therefore, social media help teenagers stay connected with their friends and family.
Each paragraph should focus on one main idea.
Usually, students should aim for 2–3 strong arguments.
3. Counter-Argument
Stronger essays include a counter-argument.
This shows that the student can consider different perspectives before defending their position.
Example:
Admittedly, excessive use of social media may lead to distractions and reduced academic focus. Some students may spend hours scrolling through their phones instead of studying. However, with proper time management and parental guidance, these negative effects can be minimised.
This demonstrates maturity in thinking, which examiners reward.
4. Conclusion
The conclusion should:
• Restate the stand•
Summarise the arguments•
End with a thoughtful final statement
Example:
In conclusion, although social media has its drawbacks, it also provides many benefits for teenagers. When used responsibly, it can strengthen relationships, promote learning and help young people stay connected in an increasingly digital world.
The Biggest Mistake Students Make
Many students:
❌ Repeat the same argument
❌ Write vague examples
❌ Do not clearly state their stand
❌ Jump between ideas without structure
Argumentative essays require clarity and logical progression.
This is why students benefit from using a structured planning method before writing.
Our Argumentative Essay Cheatsheet
At The Write Tribe, we train students to organise their arguments clearly before writing.
One of the tools we use is a simple argumentative essay cheatsheet.
It helps students quickly plan their ideas in the exam.
Argumentative Essay Planning Cheatsheet
Step 1: Decide Your Stand
Do you:
✔ Agree
✔ Disagree
✔ Partially agree
Step 2: Brainstorm 3 Strong Arguments
Argument 1
Explain → Example
Argument 2
Explain → Example
Argument 3
Explain → Example
Step 3: Counter-Argument
Opposing view →Why some people believe this →Rebuttal (why your argument still stands)
Step 4: Conclusion
Restate stand
Summarise main points
End with a thoughtful statement
Why This Method Works
Many students struggle with argumentative essays because they start writing without planning.
The cheatsheet forces students to:
✔ Think before writing
✔ Organise ideas logically
✔ Provide relevant examples
✔ Avoid repeating points
This makes their essays clearer, stronger and more convincing.
How We Train Students at The Write Tribe
At The Write Tribe, argumentative writing is taught through guided practice and structured feedback.
Our students learn to:
• Analyse argumentative topics
• Build strong points with clear examples
• Address counter-arguments effectively
• Write with logical flow and clarity
Just like composition writing, improvement comes through practice and rewrites.
Students write regularly, receive detailed feedback, and refine their essays through multiple drafts.
This process builds the critical thinking and writing skills needed to excel in secondary school English. We hope - How to Write an Argumentative Composition (Secondary School Guide) - has been useful for you. Check out our free resources for more.
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