CONCLUSIONS WORKSHEET

Your conclusion is an important part of every writing piece. In an argument, it is your last chance to make your

claim, restate your reasons, and give your reader something memorable to think about. Your conclusion to

your argument MUST have these parts:


I. Acknowledge an opposing viewpoint

Let your reader know you have thought about the OPPOSITE point of view. You do not need to argue

against it – just let your reader know you are aware of other opinions. Choose ONE of the following

ways to write this.

a. Use the sentence below as a basic guide to acknowledge an objection.

Example:

Some people say that lying protects people’s feelings and it doesn’t harm anyone if you

tell “white” lies, but being honest is still a better foundation for good relationships.

Some people say instead of lying just tell the truth so later you don't hurt someone's feelings when they find out.

(what someone who disagrees with your claim would say)

but the fact is __lying does not hurt anyone feeling if you are protecting them from getting hurt. _________________________________________________________________.

(your answer to their statement)

b. State the opposing viewpoint, but say it your own way.

Example:

It can be hard to tell the truth all the time, especially when a grandparent gives you an

ugly Christmas sweater, and no one wants to hurt Granny’s feelings. Still, being honest is

better in the long run. After all, the holiday comes every year!




II. Restate your claim

Do NOT repeat your original O/P statement! Say the same thing, but use different words. The

sentence(s) do not need to be an O/P statement.

III. Restate your three reasons

This can be one sentence or three sentences. Do NOT add any new reasons or repeat any evidence

you used in the body paragraphs.


IV. Leave your reader with a final thought

Choose ONE of the following ways to write your LAST SENTENCE.

a. Call to Action – Ask your reader to DO something based on their agreement with your position.

Example:

Next time a friend asks you if their hair looks crazy on “crazy hair day” and it looks the same

way it always does, don’t tell that white lie!


b. Logical Prediction – Make a prediction about what life would be like if everyone agreed with your

position.

Example:

If more people just started telling the truth more often, we wouldn’t have to worry about

whom we could trust.