1. Purdue University Writing Lab Academic Argument Ms. Van Steenbergen * Slides with * created by Ms. V.

2. Purdue University Writing Lab Key Vocabulary*

3. Purdue University Writing Lab Ethos* SynonymsExplanation/ ExamplesImage ethics Refers to the trustworthiness of the speaker. Even though I didn’t understand all the information, I trusted my doctor’s advice

4. Purdue University Writing Lab Ethos, cont.* What does it look like?  Fair-minded  Restrained  Proper grammar/academic language Why use it?  It demonstrates the author’s reliability, lending more support to his or her argument.

5. Purdue University Writing Lab Logos* SynonymsExplanation/ ExamplesImage logic Refers to the attempt to appeal to intellect; use of logical reasoning. If a teenager is forced to register for the draft at 18, he or she should also be allowed to purchase alcohol.

6. Purdue University Writing Lab Logos, cont.* What does it look like?  Factual data (statistics)  Quotations  Citations from experts and authorities  Informed opinions Why use it?  It solicits a cognitive (thinking) response  It is most common in academic argument

7. Purdue University Writing Lab Pathos* SynonymsExplanation/ ExamplesImage Sympathy Empathy Refers to the appeal to one’s emotions (love, fear, patriotism, etc.) in an argument. All Americans should support the war in Iraq because it hurts the troops otherwise.

8. Purdue University Writing Lab Pathos, cont.* What does it look like?  Emotional tone & language  Vivid language  Stories/Narratives of emotional events Why use it?  It solicits an emotional response  More likely to move people to action

9. Purdue University Writing Lab Examples…* 1964 Johnson Election Commercial 2004 Kerry Election Commercial 1988 Bush Sr. Election Commercial 2000 Gore Election Commercial 1964 Johnson Election Commercial 2004 Kerry Election Commercial 1988 Bush Sr. Election Commercial 2000 Gore Election Commercial

10. Purdue University Writing Lab Fallacy* SynonymsExplanation/ ExamplesImage mistake Faulty reasoning; mistake in reasoning that will fool some people some of the time.

11. Purdue University Writing Lab Example: Fallacy* "We need safe storage laws." False. States that passed "safe storage" laws have high crime rates, especially higher rates of rape and aggravated assault against women. Source: "The Media Campaign Against Gun Ownership", The Phyllis Schlafly Report, Vol. 33, No. 11, June 2000.)

12. Purdue University Writing Lab Hyperbole* SynonymsExplanation/ ExamplesImage exaggeration Way of describing by saying it is much bigger, smaller, worse, etc. than it is. I was so hungry I was about to die. He is the best runner on earth

13. Purdue University Writing Lab Satire* Colbert Nation Example: Jackie Chan SynonymsExplanation/ ExamplesImage Mockery, spoof, irony A way of talking or writing about something (e.g. politics) in a way that makes them funny so their faults become obvious.

14. Purdue University Writing Lab Common ground* SynonymsExplanation/ ExamplesImage similar Making connections with readers so that your argument has more weight.

15. Purdue University Writing Lab Background* SynonymsExplanation/ ExamplesImage information Information about the topic so that readers have enough information to understand the argument

16. Purdue University Writing Lab Counterargument* SynonymsExplanation/ ExamplesImage Opposing view Addressing the other side of your issue so that you can then refute that side.

17. Purdue University Writing Lab What is an argument? An argument involves the process of establishing a claim and then proving it with the use of logical reasoning, examples, and research.

18. Purdue University Writing Lab Argument is…* A mode of academic writing. A way of looking at previous ideas in a NEW way. A method of entering a conversation about important issues. Pursuit of truth and greater understanding through research and persuasion.

19. Purdue University Writing Lab What argument is NOT:* Fighting or debate. Angry bashing of the “enemy.” A way to put down others or destroy others’ reputations. Lies, manipulation or outright deceit.

20. Purdue University Writing Lab Organizing Your Argument A presentation brought to you by the Purdue University Writing Lab

21. Purdue University Writing Lab Why is organization important in building an argument? Guides an audience through your reasoning process Offers a clear explanation of each argued point Demonstrates the credibility of the writer

22. Purdue University Writing Lab Organizing your argument Title Introduction  Thesis statement Body Paragraphs  Constructing Topic Sentences  Building Main Points  Countering the Opposition Conclusion

23. Purdue University Writing Lab Title--why do you need one? Introduces the topic of discussion to the audience Generates reader interest in the argument

24. Purdue University Writing Lab Creating a Title Try to grab attention by  offering a provocative image  picking up on words or examples offered in the body or conclusion of the paper  asking a question Avoid titles that are too general or lack character  Ex. “Argumentative Essay”

25. Purdue University Writing Lab Considering Titles Imagine you just wrote a paper offering solutions to the problem of road rage. Which do you consider to be the best title? Road Rage Can’t Drive 55 Road Rage: Curing Our Highway Epidemic

26. Purdue University Writing Lab What is an introduction? Acquaints the reader with the topic and purpose of the paper Generates the audience’s interest in the topic Offers a plan for the ensuing argument

27. Purdue University Writing Lab Methods for Constructing an Introduction personal anecdote example-real or hypothetical question quotation shocking statistics striking image

28. Purdue University Writing Lab What is a thesis statement? The MOST IMPORTANT SENTENCE in your paper Lets the reader know the main idea of the paper Answers the question: “What am I trying to prove?” Not a factual statement, but a claim that has to be proven throughout the paper

29. Purdue University Writing Lab Role of the thesis statement The thesis statement should guide your reader through your argument. The thesis statement is generally located in the introduction of the paper. A thesis statement may also be located within the body of the paper or in the conclusion, depending upon the purpose or argument of the paper.

30. Purdue University Writing Lab Which thesis statement is the most effective for an argument about the need for V-chips in television sets? Parents, often too busy to watch television shows with their families, can monitor their children’s viewing habits with the aid of the V-chip. To help parents monitor their children’s viewing habits, the V-chip should be a required feature for television sets sold in the U.S. This paper will describe a V-chip and examine the uses of the V-chip in American-made television sets.

31. Purdue University Writing Lab Body Paragraphs and Topic Sentences Body paragraphs build upon the claims made in the introductory paragraph(s) Organize with the use of topic sentences that illustrate the main idea of each paragraph. Offering a brief explanation of the history or recent developments in your topic within the early body paragraphs can help the audience to become familiarized with your topic and the complexity of the issue. (background)

32. Purdue University Writing Lab Body Paragraphs Paragraphs may be ordered in several ways, depending upon the topic and purpose of your argument:  General to specific information  Most important point to least important point  Weakest claim to strongest claim

33. Purdue University Writing Lab Offering a Counterargument Addressing the claims of the opposition is an important component in building a convincing argument. It demonstrates your credibility as a writer--you have researched multiple sides of the argument and have come to an informed decision.

34. Purdue University Writing Lab Offering a Counterargument Counterarguments may be located at various locations within your body paragraphs. You may choose to  build each of your main points as a contrast to oppositional claims.  offer a counterargument after you have articulated your main claims.

35. Purdue University Writing Lab Counterarguing effectively Consider your audience when you offer your counterargument. Conceding to some of your opposition’s concerns can demonstrate respect for their opinions. Remain tactful yet firm.  Using rude or deprecating language can cause your audience to reject your position without carefully considering your claims.

36. Purdue University Writing Lab Incorporating research into the body paragraphs Researched material can aid you in proving the claims of your argument and disproving oppositional claims. Be sure to use your research to support the claims made in your topic sentences-- make your research work to prove your argument!

37. Purdue University Writing Lab Conclusion -- The Big Finale Your conclusion should reemphasize the main points made in your paper. You may choose to reiterate a call to action or speculate on the future of your topic, when appropriate. Avoid raising new claims in your conclusion.

38. Purdue University Writing Lab Organizing your argument Title Introduction Body Paragraphs  Constructing Topic Sentences  Building Main Points  Countering the Opposition Conclusion

39. Purdue University Writing Lab Where can you go for additional help with organizing your argument? Purdue University Writing Lab Heavilon 226 Grammar Hotline: (765) 494-3723 Check our web site: http://owl.english.purdue.edu http://owl.english.purdue.edu Email brief questions: owl@owl.english.purdue.edu Purdue University Writing Lab