Refutation Paragraphs
The refutation paragraph is normally found ONLY in argument essays and argument research
papers; it is also known as the concession paragraph. When students are writing an argumentative
essay, they need to acknowledge the valid points of the opposing argument, otherwise writers
sound narrow-minded and thereby less effective. So an effective refutation paragraph establishes
the ethos, or the writer's credibility with his/her audience. Rather than weakening the paper, a good
concession paragraph will actually strengthen the essay by showing that the writer has thoughtfully
considered both sides of the argument before arriving at the final argumentative position.
Be careful though, writers don't want the other side of the argument to sound better than his/her
own. One way of avoiding this is by answering or countering any of the points the other argument
has.
The refutation paragraphs typically:
Introduce the Opposing Argument
Acknowledge parts of the opposition that are valid
Counter the Argument
Introduce the Conclusion
Introduce the Opposing Argument
The writer summarizes the opposition's viewpoint openly and honestly. Ignoring the opposition is
futile in that the audience is aware of the opposing arguments and will doubt the credibility of a
presentation that chooses to ignore the opposition rather than deal with it.
Ways writers can begin:
The claim _______ is not completely inaccurate.
It is often argued that...
It is true that...
Opposing views claim...
Acknowledge parts of the opposition that are valid
The writer acknowledges that some of the opposition's claims may be valid, but the writer still
shows that his own claims are stronger. The strength of the writer's claims are more convincing
than the opposing viewpoints. A writer might explain the opposition's weakest points, contrasting
them with his argument's strongest points.
Ways writers can begin:
Admittedly,
Certainly,
Of course,
One cannot deny that...
At the same time...
