1. Persuasive Techniques and Essay Writing
Mrs. Elias

2. What is an argument? A claim supported by reasons and evidence
NOT a fight or disagreement

3. What is a claim?
A claim is the writer’s position on a problem or issue
A claim can be stated directly or implied by the author

4. What is support?
Support is the reasons (asks WHY) and evidence that is used to “support” the claim
Supporting evidence can take many forms such as Facts, Statistics and Examples
Facts=can be proven
Statistics=numbers from research
Examples=real life stories

5. Elements of an Argument
Identify the CLAIM – what “should” happen or what action “should” occur as a result
Identify the REASONS “why”
Identify the SUPPORTING EVIDENCE and what form it takes
What is the author asking the reader to do (ACTION)

6. Counterargument and rebuttal
Evidence
Evidence
Counterargument and rebuttal
conclusion

7. Counterargument
Arguments made to address the points that someone with an opposing viewpoint may make
When reading arguments think…what might another who disagrees say and how would the author respond to this (response to counterargument)???
People who argue your point are called dissenters.

8. “Kids in Monument Park”
Read the article and please fill in the answers on the corresponding worksheet
Take notes on the page while reading the article paying particular attention to all of the argument elements previously discussed