English 10 / Unit 8: Writing Arguments
8.6 Style and Tone in Argument
Notes
How you argue matters as much as what you argue.
- Use a formal, objective tone: avoid slang, insults and "you guys."
- Avoid unsupported absolutes (always, never, everyone) unless you can prove them.
- Prefer precise words over vague ones ("reduces absences by 12 percent" vs. "makes things better").
- Avoid fallacies and loaded language, which can weaken credibility with skeptical readers.
- Know your audience: arguing to a school board differs from arguing to classmates.
Practice
Which sentence best fits a formal argumentative essay?
It is formal, precise and supported.
"Every single student hates the new schedule." The main weakness is:
"Every single" cannot be proved and invites easy rebuttal.
A student writing to the city council about park funding should mainly:
Effective arguments fit their audience.
Ready for more? Take the Unit 8 test.