Writing Prompt Pick one of the pictures on the table and identify what argument is presented through the use of the image. Explain what leads you to this conclusion.

What is happening in the photos? Writing Prompt What is happening in the photos? What is an argument? What ISN’T an argument?

What is Argument? Argument Clinic

Argument Versus Persuasion Uses evidence and reasoning to express a point of view and uncover a truth Magazine and journal articles are arguments Persuasion Aggressively seeks to change the readers’ opinion and stimulate an action based on the author’s “truth.” Debate and advertising are forms of persuasion Both consider audience and purpose

Argument Versus Persuasion Consider the images at in the envelope at your table As a group, sort them on a scope with one end “Argument” and one end “Persuasion”

Argument Arguments based on Character Arguments based on Emotion Arguments based on Facts and Reason

Logical and Emotional Arguments With a partner write a logical and emotional claim for or against 2-3 of the listed topics.

Logical and Emotional Arguments Healthy school lunches will boost a child’s immune system Healthy school lunches are the right of every child living in poverty.

Types of Arguments Toulmin Argument Rogerian Argument Adversarial Tone Although concessions may be made, arguments mostly based on refutation Opponent is “wrong” and will be overcome by evidence Nonconfrontational, collegial, friendly tone Respects other’s views and allows for more than one truth Seeks to achieve common ground, not to convince 100%

Rachel Bear and Paula Uriarte, Boise State Writing Project TCs The Chin article CLAIMS (what does she think? Column one) The principles she articulates. DATA (What makes her say so? Column two) The standards. What she knows about writing instruction. WARRANTS (So what? Column three) The so what connecting the standards and the principles. The Chin principles from slide 16 are set up to mirror Toulmin without using the terminology. A note catcher similar to the one used on slide 16 can be used with students to begin exploring the parts of argument in a text. Rachel Bear and Paula Uriarte, Boise State Writing Project TCs

Rachel Bear and Paula Uriarte, Boise State Writing Project TCs The Toulmin Model “Toulmin was looking for a method that accurately described the way that people make convincing and reasonable arguments.  Because Toulmin argument takes into account the complications in life—all those situations when we have to qualify our thoughts with words such as sometimes, often, presumably, unless and almost—his method isn’t as airtight as formal logic, that is, the kind that uses syllogisms.  But for exactly that reason, Toulmin logic has become a powerful and, for the most part, practical tool for shaping argument in the real world.” (Lunsford, Ruszkiewicz, Walters, 2004) One reason Toulmin is a viable model is that it tries to replicate the way people argue in real life. It is useful to think of examples of this in the current news media or personal examples. Rachel Bear and Paula Uriarte, Boise State Writing Project TCs

Elements of an Argument

What’s a good claim? Statement of BELIEF based on IDEAS Should be ARGUABLE and DEFENSIBLE Answers the question WHAT (do you think) Should be based on EVIDENCE of some sort Often QUALIFIED in real-world arguments In order to live an epic life, individuals should press forward to accomplish their goals

What is data or evidence? Answers the question What Makes You Say So? Could be STATISTICS, RESEARCH DATA Could also be ANECDOTES, EXAMPLES, STORIES, QUOTES Abraham Lincoln studied law for three years on his own to become a lawyer.

What is a warrant? Explains how the EVIDENCE supports the CLAIM Based on generally accepted RULES In order to live an extraordinary life, an individual must accomplish worthwhile goals.

Counterclaims/Rebuttals Shows awareness of potential audience rejections Addresses what someone who objected might say and includes a response to the objection Some might argue that there are people who just fall into fame; however, further investigation usually proves they paid the price at some time in their life.

Identify Argument Elements! Identify the stories the writer uses as evidence Identify the primary claim and counterclaim Highlight all sentences that seem to state a reason to accept the writer’s claim about failure.

Argument Writing Tips Determine the claim/thesis/proposition Take account of your audience Gather the necessary supporting evidence Settle on an organizational pattern Consider counterclaims/rebuttals to your argument Avoid faulty reasoning Conclude forcefully – encourage specific course of action

Composing to Practice: Candy Bar Arguments Your Task: In your group of 3-4, utilize the given candy part to create an AD that argues that it is the best candy bar. Work together to develop an ARGUMENT

Composing to Practice: Candy Bar Arguments Group Make claims – don’t forget to qualify Gather data/evidence – from wrappers, from experience, from cell phone research Explain why data/evidence supports the claim Address counterarguments with rebuttals Prepare & label argument on sheet and post when complete

Muddy/Marvy - Feedback I’m not clear about … I’m a bit confused about… I’d like clarification on … Question: I really liked… I understand… I can really use … Marvelous …… Boise State Writing Project 2012