The following three outlines are examples of how you can organize your thoughts, ideas, and facts in a classical argumentative essay.

Argumentative/Persuasive Essay

Plan A Outline

I. Introduction:

A. Background information (One of the following methods).

Definition of the topic

Description/Explanation of the topic. For example: Describe what is DACA and give a historical background about DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)

B. Introduce the topic of controversy or the argumentative topic. For example, “Should the U.S. honor DACA signed by President Obama in 2012?” ,or “Should the children of illegal immigrants who were brought into the U.S. before the age of 16 be given a path to citizenship?”

C. State what the proponents and opponents claim.

For example: The proponents of DACA claim that these young people belong to this country, but no other, because this is where they feel akin to and call home. On the other hand, the opponents claim that giving lawful status to these children will encourage others to bring their children to the U.S., thereby causing lawlessness and creating disadvantages for the United States.

D. Begin your refutation or rebuttal (Disprove or prove the opposite side wrong), and state your argument (Thesis statement of intent and opinion.

For example: However, the claims that the children of illegal immigrants take away resources from the legal citizens and cause lawlessness are completely false, and there is no evidence that would validate these claims. In fact, these young people contribute extensively to every part of the U.S. society. Therefore, DACA and a path to legal status for the children of illegal immigrants should be reinforced/reinstated.

II. Premise # 1 (Pro-argument or reason #1) and supporting details.

For example: Children of illegal immigrants should be given legal status because they will have a chance to be educated, thereby contributing to a highly educated society.

(i.e. If they are legal, they can get financial aid, educational loans, in-state tuition….)

III. Premise #2 (Pro-argument or reason #2) and supporting details.

For example: If the children of illegal immigrants are given legal status, they will contribute to the workforce, thereby lowering the unemployment rate, increasing tax revenues, and improving the U.S. economy.

IV. Premise #3 (Pro-argument or reason #3) and supporting details.

For example: The strongest argument in support of these children, or now adults, is that many of them are serving in the U.S. military, so they are a major part of the troops making the country secure nationally and internationally.

V. Counterargument and refutation:

For example: The opponents of DACA assert that these children will take away the benefits that are given lawfully to legal residents and citizens. However, there is no evidence that this claim is valid, and the opposite is true. Indeed, there is strong evidence that DACA and any effort on behalf of giving legal status to the children of illegal immigrants have contributed to many advances in U.S. society.

VI. Conclusion.

Plan B Argumentative/Persuasive Outline

I. Introduction: (Follow the same steps as “Plan A”

II. Counterargument and refutation

III. Premise #1 (Pro-argument)

IV. Premise #2

V. Premise #3

VI. Conclusion

The only difference between Plan A and Plan B is that your “Counterargument and refutation” paragraph comes right after your introduction, and you will follow the same steps for your premises or reasons.

Plan C Argumentative/Persuasive Outline

I. Introduction (Follow the same steps as in Plan A and B.)

II. Counterargument #1 and refutation

For example: The opponents of DACA contend that this policy will have a serious effect on every aspect of society. Educating the children of illegal immigrants will be costly and will drain the resources needed for educating the legal residents and citizens. However, there is no evidence that is true. The majority of these children, or adults, will remain in society illegally, and if they are not educated, they will be a burden on society in future……….

III. Counterargument #2 and refutation

For example: The opponents claim that DACA and the path to legal status will diminish employment opportunities for the legal residents and citizens. However, the opposite is true. With legal status, the now-adults will be able to improve the U. S. economy by working and adding to the tax revenues……….

IV. Counterargument #3 and refutation.

For example: The opponents contend that giving legal status to the children of illegal immigrants will contribute to the lawlessness in society. However, many of these children, or adults, will be going to school, working, or serving in the military. Therefore, they will be the protectors of our society and will bring in a sense of security to the country. In fact, if they cannot go to school, work, or serve in the military, they will be on the streets committing crimes……

V. Conclusion