A model for argumentative writing The Toulmin Model A model for argumentative writing

What is the Toulmin model The toulmin model is just that…a model. It is an example of how to write an argument. Your writing may not be in the same order as the model, but it should contain all of the elements.

claim The claim is what you are trying to prove with your argument. You should gather evidence before deciding on your claim. the claim will be written in the thesis statement of your essay.

evidence The evidence is the data or details that prove the claim. You will find the details in your literary text or research. Be sure to cite the source for your evidence.

How to write with evidence: Because… For instance… According to the text… On page _____, it said… The author stated…

warrant The warrant is the most commonly missed element of arguments. The warrant tells the reader how the evidence is relevant to the claim. It answers the question: so what?

counterclaim Readers will not always believe your claim unless you can prove their own views wrong. The counterclaim is the other side of the argument. Make sure when your present the counterclaim that you don’t start arguing both sides.

rebuttal Once you present the counterclaim, you must disprove it. Sometimes you can’t completely disprove the counterclaim. You will have to simply show that your claim is stronger and point out the weaknesses in the other claim.

conclusion At the end of your argument, you need to summarize the evidence and make statement about the claim. This is your conclusion. The conclusion is often the thesis of the paper.