Argument and discussion planning in detail

In a previous checkpoint, we saw how to plan quickly. In this checkpoint, we go through planning in more detail so that you can start to write out consistently robust plans that will set you up for success.

Let’s go through planning, in detail.

Persuasive Writing Plan

• Stance: write out your stance clearly (addressing the question directly).
  
• A1 (Argument 1): what’s your ‘claim’ in one clear sentence. This should answer “why you support your stance” – “because…”. If this is not clear, then address this.
• A2 (Argument 2): what’s your ‘claim’ in one clear sentence. This should answer “why you support your stance” – “because…”. If this is not clear, then address this. This should be different from A1. It’s not different if you use different words but same meaning. It’s different if it’s a different argument.
• CA&R (Counter-argument and reorientation – optional): Write this out in two full sentences using [“Those opposed would say….”. “However,….”] Check to make sure that the reorientation directly addresses the counter-argument and that the counter-argument selected is strong. Do not include if the inclusion of this paragraph is going to weaken your overall piece.

Discussion Writing Plan

• Point 1 (one side): what’s the ‘claim’ in one clear sentence. This should answer [“why people support this side” – “because…”]. If this is not clear, then address this.
• Point 2 (the other side): what’s the ‘claim’ in one clear sentence. This should answer [“why people support this other side…” – “because…”]. If this is not clear, then address this. This should be different from Point 1. It’s not different if you use different words but same meaning. It’s different if it’s a different point.
• Opinion: in one sentence, state what side you’re on and why. The ‘why’ is important and should be insightful - a deeper insight may be developed from exploring either point 1 or point 2 (depending on your opinion) in more detail.

The stance

There are a number of different positions based on the style of writing requested in your exam. For example:

• Argumentative – requires you to choose one side.
• Discussion – evaluate both sides – you may not have to choose a position and can be located in the middle.

In terms of choosing the position you'll take, this is how I recommend going about it for:

Persuasive writing

• Choose an interesting position if you can find interesting arguments – as this will allow your piece to really stand out.
  
• If not, then choose the 'easiest' position. This is the one where you have prior knowledge of and can come up with 2 arguments quickly for. Remember, it is an exam and it is better to come out with a ‘common’ yet well-written essay as that will score better than an essay that struggles to convey what is intended.
• A note about ‘controversial’ sides – typically the exam tests your writing so the ‘side’ you choose shouldn’t come into play. However, assessors are human and humans can have biases so while it shouldn’t affect your mark, this part is generally uncontrollable. Students who have, in the past, chosen a side that many would not choose and argued well, have made their piece stand out. If unsure, take the safer route to make the process easier.

Discussion writing

• After stating both sides, and if you're asked to choose one side, then make it evident. If not, then you can say an 'it depends' type of argument with special insight into the issue as to why you chose your ‘side’.
• Your position choice should be evident in your planning.

Examples

Watch video to see worked example/s relating to position choice and planning:

A high-flying executive stole over $6 million from her employer used a portion of that money to fund clinical trials of a new drug that has helped save the lives of over 12 babies born with severe neurological illnesses, including her own. This former executive has been lauded as both a hero but also hated. Do you think it is wrong to obtain money for a worthy cause at any cost? Why/why not?

Discuss the benefits and disadvantages of implementing a global language across all nations.

Key Rules to remember:

• If you are supposed to choose a position, do so.
• Choose the position that is unique that you can do in the exam (while unique is ideal, it is better to go with what you can do successfully in the exam – remember, common but well-written is also very good).
• Persuasive requires one position (don’t do ‘it depends’) and discussion requires you to consider both sides equally with your view on one side, if requested.
• Follow the plan carefully – a well-constructed plan, although it looks simple, requires a lot of thought.
  
• Your plan, if done correctly, will be the first step in writing a successful story.

Practice time!

Now, it's your turn to practice.

The questions in this checkpoint are provided to help you develop your writing skills.

To do your practice questions, click on the below to download your question paper. You can print it out or work from the electronic version. We do recommend that you write your answers by hand in a notebook or on paper.

PDW-CP5-Questions.pdf

Once you have completed your questions, review the suggested solutions. You can download (and print if you wish) the PDF suggested solutions and/or watch the suggested solutions video (all below).

Once you're done with reviewing the practice question suggested solutions, move on to the next checkpoint.

PDW-CP5-Answers.pdf

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