Setting Up an Argument

State the "controversy" in the form of a yes/no question. Is it a good idea for a person in Taipei to own a car? Should guns be made legal? Should television and movies be censored? Divide your paper into two parts: Pro (for) and Con (against) List your notes under each heading, i.e. what are the ideas that support the argument ( pro ) and what are the ideas that refute it (con)? Decide which side of the argument you will argue for, i.e. "Take a Stand". Organize your notes. You may choose to present your argument "50/50" pro/con or "80/20", but whatever you do, make sure you are responsible to the other side. (Don't just give your opinions without recognizing those of others.) Remember to support your opinions with: facts statistics evidence examples quotes paraphrasing experience Write your drafts(s). Revise and Edit