Quick Think: Bellwork To get us back thinking about writing, think about the BIG three for each paragraph. Write these down on a sheet of paper. Introduction Body Paragraphs Conclusion

Argumentative Writing

An argument… I want you to think about an argument you have had with a parent…. Curfew Going on a trip Cellphone Write down three reasons to convince them that YOU ARE CORRECT!

An argument involves the process of… establishing a claim and then proving it with the use of logical reasoning, examples, and research.

Wait… What is a claim? A claim is an assertion of the truth of something, typically one that is disputed or in doubt. In other words, you are stating your opinion on a particular topic as FACT and that is your claim. Example: In my opinion, schools should require students to wear uniforms.

An Effective Claim Takes a clear position Is narrow enough to be supported within essay Can be supported by facts or citations from a text

Examples… Claim is to Argumentative Essay as Thesis is to Informative Essay. Although some people may think otherwise, marijuana should be legalized for medicinal purposes. Despite all other arguments, marijuana should not be legalized for medicinal purposes.

Characteristics of Argument Writing Convinces reader claim is true Uses evidence—facts and data Acknowledges counterclaims—the other side of the argument Example: If lawyers do not have enough evidence, they can not prove the other person guilty.

Choosing the BEST thesis/claim Choose a thesis/claim 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.

What is the difference between argumentative and persuasive? An argument, by definition, has two sides. In an argumentative essay, you ADDRESS the counterargument. We call that the counterclaim paragraph.

Addressing the counterclaim… Refutes or proves wrong, another point Recognizes the other side’s points BUT shows why your claim is better!

Taken from Georgetown University Introduction to Presenting Cases 101 Argument: the heart  of the  brief. This  section  contains  your favorable interpretation, analysis, and application of the law to your client’s  case. The argument section still uses the basic concepts of legal writing, including logical large and small­ scale organization, and case analysis. The argument  section also still addresses  counter arguments. However, what  makes  the argument  section most effective is how counterarguments are distinguished  and  thus  rendered inapplicable  to  your case. Instead of objectively examining both  sides of the case, weaknesses in your client’s case are minimized, while strengths in your client’s case are highlighted.

Quick Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZFIL-A6r08