Before you begin: Complete your reading/research for the Rogerian Argument so that you are informed about your issue
and understand the main claim and sub-claims of each perspective.
Instructions:
1. Study the PowerPoint presentations, “Rogerian Argument Outline,” ‘Rogerian Argument Thesis Statement,” and
“Rogerian Argument Common Ground, paying careful attention to the examples provided.
2. Study the document, ‘Rogerian Argument Annotated Essay Outline” to understand the structure of the Rogerian
Argument and to learn what the focus of each paragraph should be.
3. Follow the structure in the outline document and create an outline for your Rogerian argument essay.
• As part of the information you include for your Introduction Paragraph, write a complete thesis statement.
Type the thesis in bold font to make it easy for your instructor to locate it.
• At a minimum, the body paragraph outlines should include complete topic sentences for each paragraph and two or
three supporting reasons with evidence from your research sources.
• When you get to the Compromise/Solution section (body paragraph 6 on the outline), take time to consider a
compromise that allows both sides to achieve part of their goal, that is measurable and feasible, and that does not
ask one side to simply change their minds. Then, use complete sentences to fully explain your proposed
compromise/solution. Your compromise must be supported by evidence from your research. Appealing to logos
can be a helpful tactic here.
4. Finish the outline with a few notes on what you will include in the conclusion paragraph.
Creating a robust outline by following these instructions carefully will make it easier to write your Rogerian Argument essay next
week, and it will also allow your instructor the opportunity to provide feedback on how you are planning your essay, which often
helps increase your final essay grade.