The APA style argument essay is 1,600–1,800 words and must incorporate a minimum of four secondary sources:
At least two articles from Penn Foster’s digital library database, Gale Academic OneFile Select
At least one nonprofit or government organization (online or print). Look for website domains .org, .edu, and .gov.
One source that you choose.
Example:
I. Introduction: Ends with thesis statement (Topic + Opinion + the three reasons you feel that way= Thesis statement).
Thesis statement example for a topic on nutrition: A vegan diet, while a healthy and ethical way to consume food, can cause hormonal imbalances, vitamin deficiencies, and protein deficiencies.
II. Body paragraph 1: Topic sentence must state the first reason for your argument (can cause hormonal imbalances). The rest of the paragraph must be about that reason.
III. Body paragraph 2: Topic sentence must state the second reason for your argument (can cause vitamin deficiencies). The rest of the paragraph must be about that reason.
IV. Body paragraph 3: Topic sentence must state the third reason for your argument (can cause protein deficiencies). The rest of the paragraph must be about that reason.
V. Opposition and Rebuttal: This paragraph must start out with experts who oppose your argument (they think vegan diets are safe and healthy) and must end with your rebuttal and proof that your argument is sound.
VI. Conclusion: Must reiterate the thesis and summarize it while giving readers a sense of closure.
Your essay will have six solid paragraphs per this blueprint. Your essay must include in-text citations and a References page. Here is a link to a student’s sample paper. Make sure your paper is formatted in a similar way. You do not need to include a cover page.
https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_formatting_and_style_guide/documents/APA%207%20Student%20Sample%20Paper.pdf
Here is another link to a different section of the same website that will show you how to cite sources in detail. You will always need to use a guide like these to complete your research papers.
https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_formatting_and_style_guide/general_format.html
Please remember that all paragraphs must be indented, and the content of your essay must be double-spaced.