Argument Writing

Uses logic and reason to show that one argument is better than another An Argument Uses logic and reason to show that one argument is better than another My argument can beat up your argument.

A strong argument uses sound reasoning and solid evidence to support a claim.

How can I argue? A good argument relies on these parts: A supportable claim Compelling reasons to support the claim Specific evidence to support the reasons

What’s in a Claim? Your claim is the statement you are supporting, or arguing in favor of. A claim is a person's position on a particular issue. A claim is an opinion rather than a fact.

What’s in a Claim (2)? A claim is a person's position, or opinion on a particular issue. The following are claims: Applesauce is disgusting. Pygmy marmosets are the most adorable creatures in the world.

A claim is an opinion, rather than a fact. Pygmy marmosets are small monkeys that live in South America. Pygmy marmosets should be provided to all school teachers.

Marmoset

Give me one good reason… In argument writing, the claim is supported by reasons. Reasons tell your reader why he should agree with your claim. Choose reasons that are important to your reader.

Claim: Pygmy marmosets should be provided to all school teachers. Reason 1: Cute things reduce stress. Reason 2: If teachers were less stressed, they would be nicer. Reason 3: If teachers were nicer, school would be more fun.

Where can we get you a marmoset? If your reader cares about your reasons, he is more likely to agree with your claim.

But can you prove it? Every reason needs to be supported by evidence that helps prove the claim. Your evidence must be both specific and relevant.

“Cute things reduce stress.” A study of college students, conducted at Hiroshima University, showed that people who watched videos of cute animals performed better on concentration tasks than people who watched videos of appealing food. Good evidence!

Stress Relief Good Better

“Cute things reduce stress.” “People like things that are cute.” Bad evidence!

Other thoughts on evidence The kind of evidence that the writer would use depends on the type of argument you’re making. You would never use evidence about lizards in an argument about marmosets. The evidence used to support the reasons is what convinces the reader to accept the claim.

Counter Argument A counter argument expresses the opinion of someone who disagrees with the claim. This marmoset disapproves of your claim.

Do I need a counter argument? Yes. If it’s done well, a counter argument actually makes the writer's argument stronger. It gives the writer a chance to respond to the reader's objections before the reader can present them. A counter argument shows that the writer is a reasonable person who has considered both sides of the debate.

Making a Good Counter Argument The trick to making a strong counter argument is to present the other side’s opinion in a way that makes your reader want to disagree with it. Mention the other side has a valid point, but focus on why their valid point isn’t as important as your valid points.

Example Counter Argument While it’s true that pygmy marmosets can be loud and messy, it isn’t fair to claim they have no place in an educational environment. In fact, pygmy marmosets are very social and interested in helping others.

Exit Ticket * Name one thing you learned about argument writing today. * Name one question you still have about argument writing.