The Argumentative Essay Taking a Stand and Providing Adequate Support [See Prescribed Textbooks]

Concepts Related to Argumentation Logic Fallacy Types of reasoning Syllogism as means of testing steps in deductive reasoning Attributes defining effective argument

Logic To convince, information needs to be factual To convince, information also needs to be stated in a clear step-by-step fashion Failure to produce factual information or to state it in a clear step-by-step fashion is to commit fallacy. (Fallacy has different types.)

Types of Reasoning Providing examples prior to stating a culminating conclusion means reasoning inductively. [Inductive reasoning=specific to general] Making a general or broad statement prior to providing supporting examples means reasoning deductively. [Deductive reasoning=general to specific]

Syllogism and Deductive Reasoning A syllogism ensures that broad statements of deductive reasoning are clarified by specific statements. Syllogisms have three basic parts—Major premise, minor premise, and conclusion. When abroad statement is not supported or clarified by specific statements, the result becomes a fallacy.

Attributes That Define Effective Argument [Rhetorical Appeals] Logos—focuses on objectivity (impersonal/scientific essence) of provided evidence—e.g. statistics, photos, expert/authoritative views Ethos—focuses on the integrity of the information Pathos—focuses on subjectivity (personal/emotional essence) of evidence—e.g. family-related, political affiliation, religious affiliation, sport-related, etc.

Key Parts of an Argument--#1 Explanation Is the question which requires a “for” or “against” answer. Is the stand you take as an arguer. A quick one or two statement support which the arguer provides for the stand he/she takes. Issue Claim Grounds

Key Parts of an Argument--#2 Explanation Warrant Backing Qualifier Rebuttal The underlying philosophical/religious value of the arguer’s point. An elaborate set of evidence to support one’s claim [here’s the use of statistics, expert opinions, photos, anecdotes, etc.] Word or phrase which limits an otherwise broad statement [e.g. most, many, some, few, etc.] This is where the arguer rejects claims other than his/her own

Three Basic Approaches to Argument Explanation More feisty and less respectful type of argument; more of a debate; a win or lose type of argument. Less feisty and more respectful Not feisty. A more friendly type where the arguer is interested simply in sorting out varying opinions in order to find an amicable solution to a problem or controversy. Classical Toulmin Rogerian