Benefits of structuring arguments before and while developing written documents.

Sample Solution

Policy Argument: Mandatory Paid Parental Leave in the United States

Specific and Evaluative Claim: The United States should implement a national policy of mandatory paid parental leave for all new parents, regardless of employment status or company size. This would significantly improve child well-being, promote gender equality, and strengthen the American workforce.

Benefits of Structuring Arguments:

Structuring arguments provides a clear roadmap for crafting persuasive and well-supported written documents. Here's how it benefits the writing process:

• Clarity: Defining a specific and evaluative claim establishes a clear focus. It prevents tangents and ensures the argument stays on topic.
• Organization: Structure helps organize thoughts and evidence logically. The argument progresses from introduction to supporting points, counterarguments, and a conclusion with a call to action.
• Strength: A structured argument strengthens your case by building upon evidence and anticipating opposing viewpoints.
• Efficiency: Structured writing saves time in the long run. Organized thoughts allow for more focused writing and reduce the need for major revisions later.

Applying Structure to the Parental Leave Argument:

Imagine structuring a persuasive essay supporting mandatory parental leave:

• Introduction: Briefly discuss the lack of paid parental leave in the US compared to other developed nations.
• Body Paragraphs:
  • Benefits for Children: Explain how paid leave allows parents to bond with their newborns, leading to better cognitive development and emotional well-being.
  • Benefits for Gender Equality: Show how paid leave encourages fathers to take an active role in childcare, promoting equality in domestic responsibilities and career advancement for mothers.
  • Benefits for the Workforce: Discuss how paid leave reduces employee stress and turnover, leading to a more productive and loyal workforce.

Full Answer Section

• Body Paragraphs:
  • Benefits for Children: Explain how paid leave allows parents to bond with their newborns, leading to better cognitive development and emotional well-being.
  • Benefits for Gender Equality: Show how paid leave encourages fathers to take an active role in childcare, promoting equality in domestic responsibilities and career advancement for mothers.
  • Benefits for the Workforce: Discuss how paid leave reduces employee stress and turnover, leading to a more productive and loyal workforce.
• Addressing Counterarguments: Acknowledge concerns like increased business costs and potential abuse. Present evidence to counter these concerns, such as tax breaks for businesses and measures to prevent misuse.
• Conclusion: Recap the key points and reiterate the advantages of a national paid leave policy. Urge the audience to support its implementation.

By structuring your writing around the defined claim and using evidence to support your points, you can develop a strong argument for mandatory paid parental leave, advocating for its positive impacts on families, businesses, and society as a whole.