Writing An Argument Portfolio. The final draft of your original argumentative essay, of nature

Answer 1

Creating an argument portfolio involves presenting a well-structured argumentative essay along with supplementary materials that enhance your main argument. Below, you'll find a draft outline for an argumentative essay on the topic of nature, along with a sample introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Following the essay, I'll provide additional components you can include in your portfolio.

Argumentative Essay Outline: The Importance of Preserving Nature

I. Introduction

• Hook: The beauty of nature has inspired poets and philosophers for centuries, but its degradation poses a threat to our survival.
• Background Information: Brief overview of the environmental crises facing the planet, including climate change, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity.
• Thesis Statement: Immediate action is necessary to preserve our natural environment, not only to protect the Earth’s ecosystems but also to ensure the survival and prosperity of future generations.

II. Body Paragraphs

• A. The Ecological Importance of Nature

  1. Topic Sentence: Nature is vital for maintaining ecological balance.
  2. Evidence: The role of forests in carbon storage and oxygen production.
  3. Explanation: Healthy ecosystems provide essential services such as clean air, water filtration, and soil fertility.

• B. The Economic Value of Nature

  1. Topic Sentence: Preserving nature has significant economic benefits.
  2. Evidence: Statistics on ecotourism and biodiversity's role in pharmaceutical advancements.
  3. Explanation: Sustainable practices can lead to long-term economic stability and job creation.

• C. The Psychological and Cultural Impact of Nature

  1. Topic Sentence: Nature contributes to mental health and cultural identity.
  2. Evidence: Studies linking time in nature to reduced stress and improved mental clarity.
  3. Explanation: Parks, natural reserves, and wilderness areas enhance quality of life and foster community.

• D. Counterargument and Rebuttal

  1. Acknowledge: Some argue that economic growth must take precedence over environmental concerns.
  2. Refute: Short-term economic benefits often lead to long-term consequences that ultimately harm the economy and society.

III. Conclusion

• Restate Thesis: Protecting nature is not merely an aesthetic concern; it is a necessity for our ecological health, economy, and mental well-being.
• Call to Action: Urge readers to advocate for sustainable practices, support conservation initiatives, and educate others on the importance of preserving our planet.

Additional Portfolio Components

1. Annotated Bibliography: Provide a list of sources you consulted for your essay, summarizing the main points and relevance of each source.

2. Reflection Piece: Write a short reflection on the writing process. Discuss what you learned about the topic and any challenges faced in crafting your argument.

3. Visual Aids: Include graphs, charts, or images that illustrate the importance of nature, such as deforestation rates or biodiversity statistics.

4. Persuasive Letter: Draft a letter addressed to a local government official advocating for environmental policies based on your essay’s arguments.

5. Research Notes: Keep copies of your notes that highlight your initial thoughts, research findings, and key quotes that helped formulate your essay.

6. Peer Review Feedback: If applicable, include any feedback you received from peers or instructors and how it influenced your final draft.

7. Revisions Log: Document the changes you made from your first draft to the final submission, explaining the reasoning behind each significant revision.

By incorporating these elements into your portfolio, you will provide a comprehensive view of your argumentative writing process and deepen the impact of your essay on the importance of preserving nature.