1. Parts of an argument
English II

2. Essential Question
What are the parts of an argument and how are they used to persuade an audience?

3. DO NOW 10/19/2015
Keller ISD is thinking of switching to school uniforms and has asked YOU to speak at the school board meeting to voice your opinion on this matter. Write a brief explanation of why you are/are not in favor of this much debated topic.

4. Part #1: Hook • The hook grabs the reader’s attention.
• It often establishes a connection between reader and writer and provides background information.
• It can be, but is not limited to, an anecdote, a definition, or a quotation.
After each of these slides, it’s important to ask students why this is important in any argument.
Why does an author need an effective hook?
To keep the reader engaged
So the reader will continue to read/listen and hear them out

5. Part #2: The position statement
The position statement comes in the opening section of your paper
It states your belief and what you wish to argue
It can be straightforward and clear. For example, “The minimum wage should be raised to $10.” Without evidence, this is just a claim, not an argument.
Why is it important that your claim comes in the first section of your paper?

6. Part #3: Support/Evidence
Your support is the reasoning behind your argument You provide supporting evidence for your claims through data, quotes, anecdotes, etc.
You use support to blend together logical (logos) and emotional appeals (pathos).

7. Logical Evidence
Refers to facts, or something that can be verified. Also refers to using logic to prove a point.
EX: Football leads to concussions. Because Bob plays football, Bob will get a concussion.

8. Empirical Evidence
Evidence that can be experienced and/or observed. Often, this is scientific research that gives hard data to back up a claim. No matter who observes this, it will not change.
EX: The thermometer reads 95 degrees. Therefore, it’s 95 degrees outside.

9. Anecdotal Evidence
An anecdote is a short and amusing or interesting story about a real incident or person. (Also known as a testimonial.)

10. Part #4: Counter Argument Paragraph (Refutations/Counterarguments )
A Counterargument is when you recognize the arguments made by the other side.
Counterarguments build your credibility by showing that you can discuss the topic objectively.
After your concession of they other side, you argue against the opposing viewpoint proving that your side has MORE validity.
Why is acknowledging the other side’s point of view important? Possibly addressing how to introduce a counterargument slide would be helpful…
Although (state relevant point from the other side), this still doesn't account for … (something like this).

11. Part #5: Call to Action!
It draws your argument to a close, restates your claim, and makes a final appeal to values.
This sums up the argument with a few final facts and appeals.
Since the goal of persuasion is to change someone’s thoughts, behaviors, or attitude this is where you tell your reader what you want them to do.

12. Let’s review... The parts of an argument are... Hook Claim
Support/Evidence
Counterargument
Call to action