Argument Writing

An argument in writing IS DIFFERENT THAN ARGUING WITH A PARENT OR FRIEND

What is an argument?

Characteristics of Argument Writing Convinces reader claim is true Uses evidence—facts and data Acknowledges counterclaims—the other side of the argument

Critical thinking. Argument is not simply a dispute, as when people disagree with one another or yell at each other. Argument is about making a case in support of a claim in everyday affairs—in science, in policy making,in courtrooms, and so forth. Appeals to people’s logic Claims, evidence, and rebuttals

Sound Reasoning One type of arguing is called “reasoning.” When using reasoning in your argument, you use logic or common sense to persuade—you use brain power to convince the other person. This type of argument often uses reasonable sounding opinions that help prove the point. Using good reasoning is often called “sound reasoning.” Reasoning doesn’t require the person to prove what they have said with facts, they just need to make sure what they are saying sounds reasonable.

Sound Reasoning Animal Experimentation – against (should not experiment on animals to test things like drugs that people will eventually use) People and animals are different genetically and therefore it is useless to use animals in experiments to see the effects of some substances on people— they are too different to be compared to people. It is better to use people directly since the results of experiments on animals aren’t reliable since what you see on animals is different than what you would see with humans.

Reasoning Samples If a criminal attacks you on the street or in your home, you cannot afford to wait 30 minutes, 20 minutes, or even 10 minutes for the police to arrive—if you even get the chance to call police and they come. Ten minutes is more than enough time for a thug to rob, murder, or cripple you for life. In fact, the Supreme Court has ruled that you, as an individual, have no right to protection by the police. Their only obligation is to protect “society”— whatever that means. So if you want to protect your home and family, you have to rely upon yourself. And self-defense does work.

An Effective Argument Takes a clear position Has two sides Is narrow enough to be supported within essay Can be supported by facts or citations from a text Or you can provide sound reasoning

Types of Arguments Cause and effect—a person, thing, or event caused something else to happen

Types of Arguments Claims of definition or fact—argue what a definition is or if something is really a fact Example: The assassination of JFK was a conspiracy

Types of Arguments Claims about values—argue the worth of something and if it is valued. Ex: iPhones are better than Android devices

Types of Arguments Claims about solutions or policies—argue for or against certain approaches to problems. Example: Cafeteria Seating, Cell Phones

Counterclaim The opposing viewpoint’s response to your argument or one of your claims.

Addressing the counterclaim… Refutes or proves wrong, another point Recognizes the other side’s points Lends credence to the writer’s claims

Writing is Like Art Different approaches can all results in a masterpiece 3 ways to include the counterclaim…find what works for you.

5 Paragraph Format Include a counterclaim to each of your topics and place those counterclaims in each of your body paragraphs you may only have one or two counterclaims and you incorporate those into your body paragraphs Think about the style of Zero Zoos

5 Paragraph Format Introduction Reason 1 Reason 2 Counterclaim(s) Conclusion

6 Paragraph Format Introduction Reason 1 Reason 2 Reason 3 Counterclaim Conclusion

Components of Effective Argument Writing? Clear and forceful claim Well-constructed argument Strong textual support with explanations of text support if possible, sound reasoning can work too Addresses counterclaims with a rebuttal Strong conclusion- Call to Action