1. Toulmin model of argument
British Logician
Frustrated with the inability of formal logic to explain everyday arguments
Came up with a model for practical reasoning

2. Two triads – first triad
Claim: the main point the arguer is trying to make-takes the form of a proposition
answering the question “So what is your point?”
You should send a birthday card to Nancy.
It is your turn to drive.
Three types of claims:
Fact
Value
Policy
Grounds: the proof or evidence arguer is offering, answering the questions “What is your proof?”, “How come?”, “Why?”, “What makes you say that?”
Because she sent you one on your birthday.
I drove last time.
Use evidence
Source credibility
Analysis & reasoning

3. First Triad continued
Warrant: the summary linking statement between the grounds and the claim.
This family usually remembers birthdays.
We usually take turns driving.
It also identifies the reasoning used in the grounds.
Generalization Cause
Analogy Authority
Sign Parallel Case
GASCAP

4. Toulmin’s second triad
Backing: provides additional evidence to support reasoning
Qualifier: the degree of force or probability to be attached to the claim
Rebuttal: admits to where circumstances or situations the argument would not hold