Starting to learn 8th-grade argumentative essays should ideally begin in the 7th grade. This allows students to gradually develop the critical thinking and writing skills necessary for more complex argumentation. According to the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), by the 7th grade, students should be able to analyze and evaluate arguments, which is a foundational skill for writing effective argumentative essays. Delaying the introduction of this genre can hinder students' ability to master these skills by the time they reach 8th grade.