Writing Arguments to Support Claims

In Career & Technology Education

What is Argument?

Arguments are used to

ArgumentAttempts to convince the audience to accept a

claim as truth.

Focuses on evidence.

Is grounded in facts, data, and logic.

Requires critical reading of source information for evidence.

Addresses counterclaims fairly in order to present a complete argument.

Argument is NOT Persuasion

Claims of Cause & Effect Claims of Definition or Fact

Claims about Values Claims about Solutions or Policies

Types of Claims

Types of ClaimsClaims of Cause & Effect

Argues that one person, thing, or event caused something else to occur

Claims of Definition or Fact

Argues what a definition is or if something accepted as a “fact” is really so

Types of ClaimsClaims about Values

Argues the worth of something and whether we value it or not

Claims about Solutions or Policies

Argues for or against specific approaches to problems

What Makes an Effective Claim?

Takes a clear position

Is debatable – people could reasonably have different opinions on the issue

Is narrow enough to be supported effectively within the scope of the assignment

What is Universal Design for Learning (UDL)?

A framework for designing curriculum in all content areas

Provides rich supports for learning

Reduces barriers to curriculum

Maintains high achievement standards for all

Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

Three Key Ideas of UDL:

Represent information for students in multiple formats and media

Provide multiple pathways for students’ actions and expression

Provide multiple ways to engage students’ interest and motivation

UDL Resources for Argument Writing

Cause and Effect Graphic Organizers:http://www.educationoasis.com/curriculum/GO/cause_effect.htm

Big6 Resources for Research & Evaluation of Sources http://doc.hcpss.org:8080/docushare/dsweb/View/Collection-15440

Making Informed Decisions and Critical Thinkinghttp://www.pbslearningmedia.org/content/e4b714ae-96b9-4103-aa49-0467c27d0073/