Terms to know and how to apply them Overview of Argument: Terms to know and how to apply them

All writing begins with a claim. What do you think? Can it be argued?

The format of most arguments goes something like this: Introduce the topic at hand generally. Provide some context to the issue and give background. Make a claim that clearly states your position on the topic. Take a clear side. Present your reasons and evidence. Do this through quotes, examples, statistics, facts, etc. And then explain how these examples support and validate your thinking through your commentary. Anticipate some counterclaims to your position. Consider what those who do not think as you do would argue in return. Address these points by making a concession if they are valid, but expose the error of their thinking or refute how your points are stronger to return your audience to your points. Save your final, and strongest point to be your “mic drop” point. Head toward your conclusion with this final example and reason leaving a strong impact on your reader. Wrap up your thoughts and circle back to where you started in your introduction anecdote or hook.

SAMPLE CLAIMS: Prospero is a terrible father SAMPLE CLAIMS: Prospero is a terrible father. Prospero is a loving father. Alexander’s method of teaching is superior to Prospero’s.

If you start with a claim that has another possible viewpoint, you’re going to be able to write an argument. A good place to start with argument is actually considering the opposing viewpoint. We call this anticipating the counterargument. Think through your own reasons to support your claim. Then think through what counterarguments someone might raise to object to your points. How you respond is called a refutation. (The verb is “to refute.”) When we refute counterclaims, we bring up additional reasons to prove our way of thinking is better.

Here is some helpful language in creating refutations… When your opponent’s argument is true but yours is better: While it’s true that . . . but There is some truth to the argument that . . . However It is true that . . . However, When your opponent’s argument might be true but you are not sure: It may be true that . . . but Even if . . . Even if it’s true that . . . When your opponent’s argument is false: It’s not true that . . . They claim that . . . but in fact . . .