A critical look at Garford’s AB AB AB approach to argumentative essay writing

Abstract

This paper discusses Garford’s (1988) AB AB AB Approach to Argumentative essay writing. It notes the importance of argumentation in life in general. It, however, observes that argument is a complex activity and student writers need to be instructed on how best to construct effective arguments. It is shown that while Garford’s attempt is intended to meet this need, it seems to be confusing students more than it is helping them. The paper notes the strengths of Garford’s approach and shows how and where it is a problem and then discusses how this can be rectified. It is suggested that students be introduced to a variety of approaches and encouraged to come up with their own, thereby developing their own creativity.