Exploration Questions for an Argumentative Essay

(Useful for Developing Ideas for an Argumentative Essay)

1. Is there a controversy associated with this topic? If so, briefly outline the nature of the controversy.
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2. Were you brought up to have an opinion on this controversy? What opinion did your family and community have on this topic?
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3. How did you school experience influence your conception of the topic? Did your teachers and classmates feel the same way about it as did your family? Were there any points of disagreement?
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4. Can you think of at least two people who hold differing views about this topic? If so, describe these people and summarize what you believe were their points of view.
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5. Has your opinion changed about this topic in any way? Why or why not?
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6. Do you think that this topic is important for people to think about? Why or why not?
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Source:

Clark, Irene L. Writing in the Center. 3rd ed. Iowa: Kendall/Hunt, 1998.