Analyzing Arguments What cultural contexts inform the argument---and what do they tell you about where the writer or creator is coming fro? What emotional, ethical, and logical appeals does the argument make? How does the writer or creator establish credibility? What sources does the argument rely on? How current and reliable are they? Are some perspectives left out? What effect does this exclusion have on the argument?

Analyzing Arguments What is the main proposition/claim of the verbal or visual argument? What reasons (subclaims or premises) and assumptions support and underlie the claims? What additional evidence backs up the assumptions and premises?

Analyzing Arguments Do the premises/subclaims reflect the proposition/thesis accurately? What fallacies can you identify? What effect do they have on the argument’s persuasiveness? What overall impression does the argument create? Are you convinced?