Final answer:
An argumentative essay requires investigating an idea, evaluating evidence, and establishing a position. Unlike expository, descriptive, or narrative essays, an argumentative essay argues a clear standpoint, aiming to persuade the reader.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of essay you're asking about is known as an argumentative essay. This kind of essay involves investigating an idea by conducting research, evaluating text-based evidence, and establishing a position on that idea. The structure typically includes an introduction where the thesis statement is presented, body paragraphs where evidence is provided to support the thesis, and a concluding paragraph that summarizes the argument and restates the thesis considering the evidence presented.
An argumentative essay differs from an expository essay, which aims to explain or clarify a topic systematically without forming an opinion. In contrast to a descriptive essay that paints a picture with words or a narrative essay that tells a story, an argumentative essay takes a clear stance on a subject and aims to persuade the reader to see the issue from the author's point of view.
Introductory paragraphs in an argumentative essay introduce the topic and assert the author's position, the body paragraphs present and analyze evidence that supports the position, and the concluding paragraph typically reinforces the thesis statement by synthesizing the information presented.