Components of an Argument (Opposition/Refutation)
Argument essays contain these particular elements:
1. Debatable thesis statement in the introduction
2. Argument – paragraphs which show support for the author’s thesis (for example: reasons, evidence, data, statistics, etc.)
3. Counterargument (Opposition) – at least one paragraph which explains the opposite point of view
4. Concession – a sentence or two acknowledging that there could be some truth to the counterargument/opposition
5. Refutation (Rebuttal) – sentences which explain why the counterargument/opposition is not as strong as the original argument
Here are some ways to introduce a counterargument:
Some people believe that vaping is not as harmful as smoking cigarettes.
Critics argue that vaping is safer than conventional cigarettes.
On the other hand, one study has shown that vaping can help people quit smoking cigarettes.
Your paragraph would then go on to explain more about this position; you would give evidence here from your research about the point of view that opposes your own opinion.
Here are some ways to begin a concession and refutation:
While this may be true for some adults, the risks of vaping for adolescents outweigh its benefits.
Although these critics may have been correct before, new evidence shows that vaping is, in some cases, even more harmful than smoking.
This may have been accurate for adults wishing to quit smoking; however, there are other methods available to help people stop using cigarettes.
Your paragraph would then continue your refutation by explaining more reasons why the counterargument is weak. This also serves to explain why your original argument is strong. This is a good opportunity to prove to your readers that your original argument is the most worthy and to persuade them to agree with you.
