Activity

The classic “Rhetorica ad Herennium” suggests that in a standard format for argument (widely followed today in any five part essay) there are six steps:
Exordium, in which the writer uses relevant generalities, anecdotes, quotes, or analogies to capture attention and then connects them to the specific topic
Narratio, in which the author succinctly states what will be the argument, thesis or point that is to be proven
Divisio, in which the author outlines the main points, or reviews the debate to clarify what needs to be discussed further
Confirmatio, which sets out the arguments (often three) for the thesis that the author supports as well as evidence supporting them
Refutatio, which sets out and refutes the opposing arguments
Conclusio, which is a summary of the argument, describing the urgency of the viewpoint and actions that could be taken