APA Guidelines

Hi class,

Doing citations is really important in academic writing, but learning the specific ways to cite is very challenging. Today I only focused on APA styles, but it's always hard for one class to cover how to use the APA styles in a proper manner. I strongly encourage you to practice the APA styles when you write on argumentative essays, and I will ask you to use citations in a correct way when you work on research papers.

I know you need more time to get familiar with the APA styles, but get prepared yourself for the world of the academic writing! Please visit the following link, and you will find further information about the APA. Click on here!

Joy

How to use a comma

One student asked me when to use a comma and when to exclude a comma, so I introduce a link that has detailed information about using commas. Hope it helps. Here's the link:
Click on here!

Joy

Argumentative essays (2)

In argumentative essays, the introductory paragraph should have a thesis statement that shows your opinion on the issue. If often mentions the opposing view first.

• E.g. Police departments say that the laws to control teenage gangs are necessary, but I believe that such laws are unfair, unconstitutional, and counterproductive.

When you state an opinion, you should indicate that it is an opinion by using a transition expression.

• In my opinion, everyone should be allowed to own a gun.
• In my view, no one should be allowed to own a gun.
• I believe that a Honda is better than a Toyota.
• I think a Lexus is better than a Honda.

In the body paragraphs, support your opinion with reasons. Each reason is a paragraph in the finished essay.

E.g. Theses statement: Although many people feel that doctors must do everything possible to keep their patients alive, I believe that euthanasia should be legalized for three reasons.

• Reason A: These patients have no change of recovery. --> body1
• Reason B: Medical costs are very high. --> body2
• Reason C: The family suffers. --> body3

In the concluding paragraph, you may (1) restate your thesis statement in different words or (2) summarize your reasons. In your final comment, you may call for action, as in the following example. Your final comment should be powerful –one that your readers will remember.

Argumentative essays (1)

An argumentative essay is built around a specific statement (or main premise) that is debatable within the field in which you are studying. In other words, your readers may agree or disagree with the statement. Your essay will need to support that statement in a manner that convinces your readers of its truth.

Debatable statements
Statements with which other people might or might not agree. These are sometimes called "arguments", "assertions", "propositions" or "premises".

• E.g. Solar energy is the best way of meeting Australia's energy needs in the 21st century.

Non-debatable statements
Statements with which nobody would normally disagree or argue. These are sometimes called "facts".

• E.g. Coal and oil are the main sources of energy in Australia in the 20th century.

Remember!

When you write an argumentative essay, your topic sentence is an opinion. You can support your topic sentence with both opinions and facts. It is better to use facts, but it is possible to use opinions. Your paper will be stronger if you use more facts, however.

Joy