Writing Arguments That Matter

Gain confidence in your ability to master high school and college writing tasks by learning to ask compelling research questions and write effective arguments. In this course, we’ll walk through the steps of writing a persuasive argument from start to finish: from choosing an important and relevant topic, crafting a question and conducting research to writing an argument that contributes valuable and original insights. You’ll learn skills that’ll help you expertly navigate academic conversations and craft complex arguments, as well as strategies to make your writing more persuasive.

What You'll Learn

• How to craft compelling research questions
• Tips for finding and evaluating useful sources that advance your argument
• How to identify differences between weak and strong arguments
• Approaches for incorporating other perspectives into your writing
• Strategies that make your writing persuasive

Who Should Register

This course is for ninth to 12th graders who want to learn argumentative writing strategies. It's not a creative writing course, and it's not for those who need remedial writing help. All students should have a high level of English language proficiency. If you don't feel quite ready for this course, consider enrolling in Sharpen Your Writing Skills in winter quarter.

Instructor

TBD

More Information

This online course is taught via Canvas and/or Zoom video conferencing. Classes meet in real time and are not recorded. Activities are held both synchronously and asynchronously. The instructor uses a blend of whole group discussion, small group/partner work and individual work time.

To participate, you should have access to a computer with a high-speed internet connection and a headset and webcam. 

If you don’t already have a Gmail account, please create one prior to the first day. Your instructor will use this account to collaborate with you and distribute and access assignments.  

See the Policies page for details about registration, refunds, waitlists and more.

Earn a Digital Badge

After participating in this course, you can claim a Youth & Teen Programs digital badge that you can share with prospective colleges, universities and employers and on social media.

Details

Mar 22–May 17, 2025	Day Sat	Time 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
	Location UW Seattle	Cost $635
	Refund Deadline Feb 27, 2025	Register

Mar 25–May 29, 2025	Day Tue, Thu	Time 6 p.m.–7:30 p.m.
	Location Online	Cost $750
	Refund Deadline Feb 27, 2025	Register