1. The Do’s and Don’ts Argumentative Writing

2. Why learn to write an argument? Being able to write an argument helps you to become a logical communicator.

3. What is an argument? An argument is a claim or position supported by reasons and evidence.

4. What are the elements (parts) of an argument? 1. Claim – a writer’s position on a problem or issue (In writing, your claim will be your thesis statement.)

5. What are the elements (parts) of an argument? 2. Reason – This explains WHY you made your claim or WHY you believe the way you do. (In an argument essay, you will need 3 main reasons.

6. What are the elements (parts) of an argument? 3. Counterargument – This is an argument made against your point-of-view. It shows the other side of the argument. (You must be able to explain why other side is wrong.)

7. What are the elements (parts) of an argument? 4. Support – Support includes reasons and evidence that are used to prove your point.

8. How do I know the argument is strong? 1. The reasons – Make sense.

9. How do I know the argument is strong? 2. The reasons – are presented in a logical and effective order.

10. How do I know the argument is strong? 3. The claim and reasons – are adequately supported by solid evidence.

11. How do I know the argument is strong? 4. The evidence – is adequate (enough of it), accurate, and appropriate.

12. How do I know the argument is strong? 5. The logic is – Sound/Solid (no instances of faulty reasoning).

13. How do I know the argument is strong? 6. The argument– anticipates counterarguments and explains why they are wrong.

14. Ways to support an argument: Statistics Facts that are stated in numbers Examples Specific instances that explain points Observations Events/situations that you yourself have seen

15. Anecdotes Brief stories that illustrate points. Quotations Direct statements from authorities (experts) Ways to support an argument: Support your opinion! Why do you feel the way you do about the issue? What facts, statistics, examples, quotations, anecdotes, or expert opinion support your view? Can you argue against the counterarguments?

16. How will my paper look when I’m finished? Paragraph 1: Introduction States the issue, your position, and your reasons. Paragraph 2: Counterargument States the opposing viewpoint on the issue and why it is wrong.

17. How will my paper look when I’m finished? Paragraphs 3,4,5: Reasons 1,2,3 Each paragraph will present a different reason why you believe the way you do with evidence to support. Paragraph 2: Counterargument Explain why the reader should care. Answer “So What?” End with a call to action.

18. What will make my argument weak? Types of Fallacy (faulty reasoning) Definition Example 1. Circular reasoning Repeating the same argument in different words “I’m tired because I don’t have any energy.”

19. What will make my argument weak? Types of Fallacy (faulty reasoning) Definition Example 2. Overgeneralizat ion Making a claim too broad (words like all, everyone, never, etc.) “You never get me anything.”

20. What will make my argument weak? Types of Fallacy (faulty reasoning) Definition Example 3. Hasty generalization Offers too little evidence or biased evidence “She left after fifteen minutes. She must not like us.”

21. What will make my argument weak? Types of Fallacy (faulty reasoning) Definition Example 4. Stereotyping Statements based on gender, ethnicity, race, social group, etc. “All rock stars are self-centered.”

22. Traits of Strong Writing: 1. Ideas – logical/focused, clear and easy to understand, connect/supported by evidence 2. Organization – Ideas are easy to follow and don’t jump around. Writer uses strong transitions and proper structure.

23. Traits of Strong Writing: 3. Conventions – Language and tone are consistent. Sentences are detailed and writer varies word choice. Few grammatical mistakes. 4. Content and Understanding – Content demonstrates in-depth understanding or prompt/topic.