Foundations of Argument Writing

An argument essay does several things:• The essay sets forth an opinion on a given

subject, • It addresses the topic thoroughly, • Provides a logical basis for the argument, • Addresses the counter argument (opposing

point of view), • And refutes the opposition and often poses

alternative solutions.

A persuasive essay looks at ONE SIDE of the ISSUE only. It often relies on emotion appeals (appeal to pathos) rather than logic (appeal to logos) to make its claims.

ARGUMENT PERSUASIONBalanced PersonalLogical and Rational Emotional/JudgmentalAppeals to Logos, ethos Appeals to pathosLooks at both sides of issue One-sided Cites EVIDENCE Evidence is limited or one-sidedObjective SubjectiveProvides Counter argument Doesn’t acknowledge opposing viewsAvoids use of First person pronouns Uses first-person pronouns “I”Proposes solutions or alternatives Stays on one point of view only

Elements of Argument—Terms and definitions:

• Claim: the position or assertion that supports an argument. This is the overall thesis the writer will argue for.

Elements of Argument—Terms and definitions:

• Evidence: the facts or reasons that support the claim. Evidence may include quotes or paraphrased information from texts you have read, research you have done, or applicable personal experiences.

Elements of Argument—Terms and definitions:

• Warrant: the chain of reasoning that connects the evidence to the claim.

• Often students forget to include the warrant, only providing evidence and neglecting to explain the connection between the evidence and the claim.

Elements of Argument—Terms and definitions:

• Counterclaim: an opposing position, assertion, or point of view.

• A proper argument considers the counterclaim(s) and refutes or disproves this counterclaim in order to strengthen their position.

• Without acknowledging and refuting the counterclaim, your argument is one-sided and incomplete.

Elements of Argument—Terms and definitions:

• Rebuttal: logical reasons for rejecting the counterclaim. (aka to refute )

The warrant is the most difficult concept for students to remember. It functions like analysis in an analytical essay. It is not enough that you present evidence; you must explain why your evidence proves or validates your claim.

Let’s Apply These Ideas:As we watch the video, look for the elements of argument we have discussed.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cXr2kF0zEgI (5:20)

Let’s Apply These Ideas:Ross:- His claim?- His evidence?- His warrant(s)?- Does he consider any

counterclaims?- Does he provide a

rebuttal to those counterclaims?

Phoebe:- Her claim?- Her evidence?- Her warrant(s)?- Does she consider any

counterclaims?- Does she provide a

rebuttal to those counterclaims?

Let’s Apply These Ideas:

Clean Water: Should the government raise water rates in order to better protect water and clean up contaminated water sources?

Using the back of your handout, begin to outline your response to this question based on your own opinion and our previous reading. What argument would you make? What side of the ongoing argument/conversation are you on? Why?