Writing an Argumentative Essay Adapted from Materials Prepared by D. Dean

Persuasion vs. Argument Ethos (author credibility) Pathos (emotional appeals) Persuasion Logos (appeals to logic) Reason Argument

What is Argument? To change reader’s point of view To bring about some action on reader’s part To ask the reader to accept the writer’s explanation or evaluation of some concept , issue or problem

Checking Your Understanding: You decide-is it argument? Table 1 Table 2 Discuss Decide- Features: Discuss Decide- Features:

Features of Argument Claim Evidence: relevant and verifiable Warrant: explanation of how the evidence supports the claim; often common sense rules, laws, scientific principles or research, and well- considered definitions. Backing: support for the warrant (often extended definitions) Qualifications and Counter-arguments: acknowledgement of differing claims

Audience How do writers’ assumptions about audience affect production of a text? 1. How much to elaborate based on what they anticipate readers know 2. How much to tailor the development of claims 3. How much to care, since writers’ concerns are bigger when audience matters 4. How to accommodate audiences if writers don't identify with them

Choosing an arguable issue

Prewrite-Draft-(Peer) Review-Revision-Editing-Publish Writing is PROCESS Prewrite-Draft-(Peer) Review-Revision-Editing-Publish

Thesis Statements Concession The “but” to the “yes” Although… Assertion The argument (the “yes”) This… Reason(s) The synthesis of supporting points Because… Significance The “so what” of the argument; implications As a result…

General qualities of effective writing Grouping ideas into sentences and paragraphs that carry meaning efficiently and move ideas forward Creating an effective thesis Introducing an idea effectively Connecting ideas (between sentences and paragraphs) Punctuating correctly Creating and maintaining an appropriate tone Concluding meaningfully Using words eloquently

Ways to make connections Transitions Pointing words Repetition of key words and phrases Synonyms Idea hooks

Due 4 April: HOMEWORK Brainstorm three possible arguable topics that center around a theme of Things Fall Apart. (5 Points) Create a thesis statement as outlined on your handout from class for each topic. (15 points)