2.4 Developing structure and integrating evidence to reflect a line of reasoning

2 min read•january 28, 2023

Sahithi Morla

AP English Language ✍🏽

224 resources

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Get ready for Topic 2.4! We will learn how to develop structure and integrate evidence to reflect a line of reasoning.

What is the Structure of an Argument?

Structure refers to the organization of a written piece and how the author uses literary devices to create meaning and convey their message. This can include elements such as the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion of an essay, as well as the use of rhetorical devices, syntax, and tone. Understanding the structure of a piece of writing is important for analyzing and interpreting its meaning and impact.

How to Develop Structure

Start with a clear thesis statement that lays out the main argument or point you want to make in your essay.
Use transitional devices, such as conjunctions and transitional phrases, to link your ideas and create coherence between paragraphs.
Use specific examples, evidence, and details to support your thesis and provide context for your arguments.
Use rhetorical strategies, such as appeals to logic, emotion, and credibility, to persuade your reader and strengthen your arguments.
Organize your essay into a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. The introduction should provide background information and preview the main points of the essay. The body should contain the bulk of your argument, and the conclusion should summarize your main points and restate your thesis. 📑
Use a variety of sentence structures, including simple, complex, and compound sentences, to create emphasis, variation, and interest.
Use figurative language and literary devices to add depth and meaning to your writing.

🤔 Remember that structure is closely related with the rhetorical analysis and argumentation, so focus on the prompt and how you can develop an argument that answers the prompt question.

How to Integrate Evidence to Reflect a Line of Reasoning

To integrate evidence to reflect a line of reasoning in an AP English Language and Composition essay ✍️, you should:

Carefully select evidence that supports your thesis and arguments. This can include quotes, statistics, facts, examples, and other types of data.
Use specific and concrete evidence to back up your claims. Avoid using vague or general statements that can't be supported by evidence.
Use evidence to illustrate your point and to provide context for your arguments.
Use evidence to refute counterarguments and to strengthen your own argument.
Use transitions to smoothly integrate evidence into your essay. This can include phrases like "for example," "in contrast," "according to," "in support of," etc.
Analyze the evidence you use by explaining how it relates to your argument and the overall purpose of your essay.
Use a combination of primary and secondary sources to make your argument more robust.

🤔 Remember that evidence alone does not make an argument, it is the way you use evidence to make a point that makes a good argument.

Browse Study Guides By Unit

🧠Exam Skills

📑Exam Review - Synthesis Essay

📝Exam Review - Rhetorical Analysis Essay

💬Exam Review - Argument Essay

🧐 Multiple Choice Questions

📆Big Reviews: Finals & Exam Prep

🥇Unit 1 – Claims, Reasoning, & Evidence

🗂️Unit 2 – Organizing Information for a Specific Audience

2.0Unit 2 Overview: Organizing Information for a Specific Audience

2.1Analyzing audience and its relationship to the purpose of an argument