1. 1.13 Writing an Argument

2. Learning Targets
Identify the knowledge and skills needed to complete your Transfer Task successfully and reflect on prior learning that supports the knowledge and skills needed.
Examine the essential elements of an argument

3. Vocabulary to Know Define these words using the glossary in your book
Argument
Claim
Counterclaim
Concession
Refutation
Call to Action
You WILL have a quiz on this vocabulary

4. What is an argument?
An argument is a discussion in which reasons are put forward in support of and/or against a claim.
A written argument must meet several conditions in order to be a valid argument and not merely an effort to persuade.
The central claim must be debatable (can be argued)
The claim must be supported by evidence
The writer needs to address the opposition by acknowledging counterclaims and the evidence supporting them.

5. Elements of an Effective Argument
Introduction and Claim
Opening that grabs reader’s attention while stating the claim (a clear and straightforward statement of the writer’s belief about the topic
Supporting Paragraphs
The reasons offered in supported of a claim, supported by evidence!

6. Elements of an Effective Argument
Concession and/or Refutation:
Restatements of valid counterclaims made by the opposing side (concessions) or the writer’s arguments against those opposing viewpoints (refutations), explaining why the writer’s position is more valid
Conclusion/ Call to Action
Closing statements restating the major arguments in defense of a these (claim) with a final challenge to the reader to take action

7. Purpose of an Argument
To change a reader’s or listener’s point of view
To ask the reader or listener to take an action
To gain acceptance for the writer’s ideas about a problem or issue.

8. Five Ways Ed Pays Watch the video
On page 58, take notes on the reasons given in support of the central claim.
Be as specific as possible.
Include quotes from the narrator as you record evidence in support of each reason.
Five Ways Ed Pays

9. Which of these reasons was most persuasive?
Why?
Which of these reasons was least persuasive?

10. Identify Elements of an Argument
Read “Why College Isn’t for Everyone” on page 78.
Use one color highlighter to mark the claim
Use one color highlighter to mark the evidence
Use one color highlighter to mark the counterclaim
Fill out the graphic organizer for this article on page 81.

11. “Actually, College Is Very Much Worth It”
Use one color highlighter to mark the claim
Use one color highlighter to mark the evidence
Use one color highlighter to mark the counterclaim
Hint: In this article, the counterclaim comes in the first paragraph. Read carefully!
Fill out the graphic organizer for this article on page 81.