What is an argumentative essay and to achieve a high mark in it?

An argumentative essay is a genre of writing that requires the student to delve into a problem, provide arguments(evidence) and establish his/her opinion on the matter in a concise manner.The structure of the argumentative essay should be as follows:Introduction (First paragraph) which includes a clear and well-defined thesis statement.Body paragraphs that included evidential support. Each paragraph in this section must be limited to the discussion of 1 main idea. This provides clarity and direction of the essay. Every paragraph must have a logical connection back to the main thesis statement.However, argumentative essays should also consider and expand differing points of view. Depending on the assignment, students should write 1 or 2 paragraphs discussing contradicting opinion of the main topic.A conclusion that does not state the main topic and main thesis but rather readdresses it in light of the evidence the student provided throughout the whole essay.Finally, I would like to also mention that it is imperative that students have clear and logical transitions between the introduction, body, and conclusion.