Simple Argumentative Essay Outline For High School Students

Writing a high-quality argumentative essay can be hard, especially for high school students who are still learning to write effectively. Most high school students have to write at least one argumentative essay during their time in high school.

Since many need help figuring out where to start or how to organize their thoughts. Let’s see how you can structure your thoughts to create a well-written argumentative essay. 

What Is An Argumentative Essay

An argumentative essay is a piece of writing that takes a stance on an issue. It could be as simple as “Cats are better than dogs” or “The death penalty should be abolished.” Regardless of your topic sentence, an argumentative essay aims to convince your reader that your point of view is correct.

Types Of Essays

There are four main types of essays, each with a unique purpose and structure. Here’s a brief overview of each type:

1. Expository essays provide information about a topic. They describe or explain something, often using examples.
2. Persuasive essays aim to convince the reader to agree with the writer’s opinion. They use logic, facts, and emotional appeals to make their case.
3. Analytical essays analyze something, often an issue or text. They usually use evidence to support their claims.
4. Argumentative essays argue for or against a particular position. They take a strong stand on an issue and try to persuade the reader to agree with their point of view.

There are four key ingredients you need to use in your writing process: research, structure, style, and persuasion. Let’s take a closer look at each one.

Research

Before arguing, you need to know what you’re talking about. This means doing homework and being familiar with the opposing side’s point of view. Only then will you be able to craft an argument that stands up to scrutiny.

Structure

A good argumentative essay has a clear structure: an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction introduces the topic and states the thesis—the essay’s main point. 

The body paragraphs each present a different piece of evidence or reasoning in support of the thesis. And finally, the conclusion sums up the arguments and drives home the point of the essay. 

Style

Regarding style, there’s one golden rule: clarity is key. An argumentative essay is not the place for flowery language or grandiose claims. Stick to simple, straightforward language and let your arguments speak for themselves.

Persuasion

This is the most important ingredient in an argumentative essay. After all, what’s the point of writing if you can convince anyone to agree with you?

The key to persuasion is making sure that your arguments are sound and logical—and using emotional appeals sparingly (if at all). 

Remember, the goal is to win over what you’re writing for, not alienate them with too much emotion or information. 

Argumentative Essay Outline Template 

Here is an outline template you can use to create an outline for your argumentative essay. 

Introduction

There are three things you need to add to your introductory paragraph. 

Hook

Grab the reader’s attention with an interesting opening. You can start with a strong headline that makes them curious about what you have to say. Or, you can begin with an interesting story or anecdote that will pique their interest.

Background Information

Provide some context for your argument that helps you maintain their interest as they read your argumentative essay. 

Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is a sentence or two that states your main argument. It should be specific and focused so that it can be effectively argued. A good thesis statement should be debatable; it should make an arguable claim that can be supported by evidence.

Body Paragraphs

Typically, there are three argumentative essay body paragraphs. You can break them down into: 

• First ParagraphIntroduce your first argument and provide evidence to support your argument. 
• Second ParagraphIntroduce your second argument or refute an opposing argument. 
• Third ParagraphIntroduce your third argument or make counter arguments with evidence to support it.

Conclusion

• Restate Your Thesis Statement.Briefly summarize your main points and inform your reader regarding your view. 
• Call To ActionEncourage the reader to do something after reading your essay.
• Closing ThoughtsLeave the reader with something to think about after reading your essay.

Sample Essay Topics

Here are some topics you can consider to create an argumentative essay. 

Argumentative Essay Topics For High School Students Studying English Literature 

• Is Shakespeare Still Relevant Today?
• Was Jane Austen a Feminist?
• How Do We Interpret the Classics in the Modern World?
• The Importance of Reading Literature.
• How Does Our Understanding of Literature Change as We Grow Older?
• The Relationship Between Literature and Life.
• The Power of Storytelling in Literature.
• The Role of Imagination in Literature.
• The Influence of Culture on Literature.
• The Boundaries of Literary Genres.

Argumentative Essay Topics For High School Students Interested In Sports

• The use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports.
• The role of media in covering sports.
• The issue of concussions in football.
• The pay gap between men and women in professional sports.
• The problem of racism in sports.
• The impact of social media on sports.
• The importance of college athletics.
• The business side of sports.
• The Olympics and its impact on the world of sports.
• What the future holds for the world of sports.

Argumentative Essay Outline For High School Students PDF

Here is an essay outline PDF you can refer to while writing an argumentative essay. 

Argumentative essays can be tough to write, but with a solid structure and some practice, you can nail them every time. Start by brainstorming your topic and finding sources that support your argument. Once you have a strong foundation, start outlining your essay and ensure each paragraph ties back to your thesis statement. 

Polish it off with a strong conclusion, and you’re good to go!

Looking for someone to write on your behalf? Get in touch to outsource your essay to an essay writer today.