What rhetorical mode should students use when writing an essay that takes a stand on an issue?

When writing an essay that takes a stand on an issue, the appropriate rhetorical mode is argumentation. This mode focuses on presenting a viewpoint or position and providing evidence, reasoning, and persuasive techniques to convince the audience of that stance. In argumentation, students not only state their claim but also support it with facts, examples, and logical reasoning, allowing them to effectively engage with opposing viewpoints and counterarguments.

Argumentation encourages critical thinking and helps students develop their persuasive writing skills, which are essential when addressing contentious topics. It enables the writer to articulate their perspective clearly and to persuade the audience by backing their assertions with credible evidence and rhetoric.

In contrast, description would entail detailing sensory experiences or characteristics without necessarily taking a stance. Exposition is primarily about informing or explaining a topic rather than advocating for a particular viewpoint, while narration focuses on storytelling and recounting events, which does not align with the objective of persuading the reader regarding a specific issue.