ARGUMENT & PERSUASIVE TECHNIQUES From: Holt Literature 8 th Grade

ARGUMENT & PERSUASIVE TECHNIQUES

From: Holt Literature8th Grade

QuickWrite

What does it mean to “state your case”?

When did you successfully “state your case” and get something you wanted? Explain how you succeeded; what did you do?

What is Argument?

You argue effectively when you present a case provide support for your case anticipate objections and give counter-

arguments

Read the article “French Fries” P. 983. What claim is the author making? What support does he provide for his

case?

Argument Terms Thesis- the position of the essay; the speaker

states his/her point of view on the issue.

Example: While facts are certainly a necessary part of learning, the opportunity for creative, individual thinking is an essential part of the academic process, and must not be overlooked.

Argument Terms Assertion/Claim - an opinion which is stated

as a fact. You can argue for or against the claim, but MUST always back it up with support.

Example: Students should put their academic work above all other considerations.

Example:: The Texas 10% college admission rule is unfair to students who attend the top academic colleges.

Argument Terms Concession/counter-argument- to consider

the opposite point of view.

Example: Some students believe that grades are unfair. They argue that no grade can accurately reflect a student’s understanding. They believe that we should abolish the numerical grading system.

Example: It is true that some teenagers abuse their privileges. A few teens drive recklessly. Some act without thinking.

Argument Terms Rebuttal- to provide evidence that discredits

the concession you’ve made to the other point of view. The speaker shows why, through evidence, his/her argument is stonger.

Example: However, stronger examples exist that prove my claim.

Example: Many teens contribute to volunteer organizations, demonstrating their responsibility. Many teens study hard to achieve good grades, demonstrating their motivation to succeed.

Rhetorical/Persuasive Styles

Ethos: based on the speaker’s character. An ethos-driven essay relies on the author’s reputation.

EX: http://www.rpi.edu/dept/llc/webclass/web/project1/group4/commercial.html


Pathos: based on emotion/feelings. Advertisements tend to be pathos-driven.

EX: http://www.rpi.edu/dept/llc/webclass/web/project1/group4/env.html


Logos: based on logic or reason. Documents distributed by companies or corporations are logos-driven. Scholarly documents are also often logos-driven.

EX: http://www.rpi.edu/dept/llc/webclass/web/project1/group4/research.html

Persuasive Techniques with Examples

How do people persuade us? What appeals do they use?

Bandwagon- appeals to our desire to belong Ethical- appeals to our sense of right/wrong Fear- appeals to our desire to be safe/healthy Pity- appeals to our compassion/caring for others Loaded Terms- Using strong emotional (positive or

negative) language

EXAMPLE “from Against Competition”

Can you identify the appeal that is used?

Analyze Persuasive Text“Should the Driving Age be Raised to 18?”

Read the article p.986. Fill in the chart with the claim made, the

appeal used, and the support/evidence given.

Study the poster p. 987. Fill in the chart with the claim made, the

appeal used, and the support/evidence given.

Answer the question at the bottom of the chart.

Analyze Persuasive Text“Should the Driving Age be Raised to 18?”

Claim Made Type ofAppeal

Evidence Given

Editorial

Poster

Which text is most successful at persuading you? Explain why it works.

Timed Writing- 15 minutes Write an Opinion Statement (a statement of what

you feel or believe) and give 3 pieces of evidence to support your opinion. Avoid logical fallacies!

1 Paragraph: introduce your claim, body support your claim with 3 pieces of evidence or reasons, conclusion where you summarize your opinion.

Prompt: “Should students at TMS be allowed to use cell phones during the school day on campus?”