Building Strong Arguments: The Art of Debate in English

Les clés de la leçon

Mot	Traduction
build an argument	construire un argument
claim	affirmation / thèse
evidence	preuve / exemple
concession	concession / reconnaissance du point de vue adverse
signposting phrases	phrases de transition / marqueurs de discours

Imagine this...

You're scrolling through your phone and a friend messages: "Homework should be banned!" You feel strongly about it — but how do you reply so that your friend actually listens? You could just say "No it shouldn't!"... or you could build an argument that convinces.

Welcome to your first lesson in argumentation at B2 level. By the end, you'll be able to defend an opinion in English — clearly, logically, and persuasively — whether you're speaking or writing.

Step 1: What is an argument?

An argument is not shouting louder. It's a clear structure:

Claim (your opinion) → Reason (why) → Evidence (proof/example) → Link back

Think of it as a sandwich: your opinion is the top bread, your evidence is the filling, and your conclusion is the bottom bread.

Example:

• Claim: Social media harms teenagers' sleep.
• Reason: because the blue light and constant notifications keep the brain alert.
• Evidence: For instance, a 2022 study found teens using phones at night slept 40 minutes less on average.
• Link: This shows why limiting screen time before bed matters.

Step 2: The connectors that glue your ideas

At B2, you're expected to move beyond and, but, so. Use richer linking words:

Function	Connectors
Add an idea	moreover, furthermore, in addition
Contrast	however, nevertheless, on the other hand
Give a reason	since, due to, because of
Show a result	therefore, consequently, as a result
Give an example	for instance, such as, namely
Conclude	to sum up, overall, in conclusion

Example:

Many people love online learning. However, it can feel isolating. Therefore, schools should combine it with in-person meetings.

Step 3: Anticipate the other side (the "concession")

A B2 argument shows you've thought about objections. This makes you sound mature and convincing.

Use this pattern:

Admittedly, [opposing point]. Nevertheless, [your stronger point].

Example:

Admittedly, video games can be addictive. Nevertheless, when played in moderation, they improve reaction time and problem-solving skills.

Step 4: Speaking vs. Writing

• Writing: organise into paragraphs, one idea each. Start with a topic sentence.
• Speaking: use signposting phrases — "Let me start by...", "My main point is...", "In short..." — and keep eye contact and steady rhythm.

The logic is the same; only the packaging changes.

À retenir

• A strong argument = Claim + Reason + Evidence + Link, not just an opinion.
• Use varied connectors (however, moreover, therefore, for instance) to guide your reader/listener.
• Concede the opposing view (Admittedly... Nevertheless...) to sound balanced and convincing.
• One idea per paragraph when writing; use signposting phrases when speaking.
• Always link back to your main point at the end.

Corrections

Exercise 1: (b) However. The two sentences contrast (expensive vs. prices falling), so you need a contrast connector. Therefore shows result, and for instance introduces an example — neither fits here.

Exercise 2: Correct order = 2 → 4 → 3 → 1.

Ecotourism benefits the environment because it makes people value wildlife. For example, entry fees fund national parks. This shows tourism can protect nature. This follows Claim → Reason → Evidence → Link. Notice how each connector does its job.

Exercise 3: Example answer:

"Admittedly, fast fashion is cheap and lets everyone follow trends. Nevertheless, it pollutes rivers and creates huge waste, so its true cost is far too high." You kept your claim but showed you understand the other side — that's exactly the B2 skill.

Keep practising: pick any topic you care about and build the four-part sandwich!