What argument writing is NOT: A fight One position that is “right” and does not recognize other possibilities An opinion Based on feeling and emotions

Opinion vs. Argument Opinion Argument Opinion - I love my computer Reason - It's durable Example - I dropped it, a corner chipped off and it still worked Claim- the Dell 3000 is a great computer Reason - It's durable Example - I dropped it, a corner chipped off and it still worked Evidence - PC World ranked it #2 on its 2013 laptop rating list

Parts of a Powerful Argument

CLAIM = Statement the writer is proving true

ARGUMENT = Statement supporting the claim; a reason

EVIDENCE = Proof from a credible source supporting the argument; facts

EXPLANATION = What the evidence proves, how the evidence supports the argument

SO WHAT? = How the evidence and explanation support the claim

COUNTERCLAIM = a reasonable statement (with proof) opposing the writer’s claim; the other side

REBUTTAL = a reasonable statement (with proof) about why the counterclaim is not as important or strong as the claim

TONE FORMAL = serious OBJECTIVE = no opinions or personal pronouns

CLAIM Hybrid cars are an effective strategy to fight pollution.

ARGUMENT Driving a private car is a typical citizen's most air polluting activity.

EVIDENCE A 2007 study by the U. S. Dept. of T. estimates there are 254.4 million private cars in the U. S.

EXPLANATION Cars are a large source of private, as opposed to industry produced, air pollution.

SO WHAT? Switching to hybrid cars should have an impact, reducing pollution.

COUNTERCLAIM The nation should focus on building and encouraging mass transit systems

REBUTTAL Mass transit is not feasible in many rural and suburban areas, thus hybrid cars are a better solution.