Tenets to Argumentation AP Language

Definition of Argumentation: The form of writing that takes a stand on an issue and attempts to convince readers by presenting a logical sequence of points supported by evidence. Unlike persuasion, which uses a number of different appeals, argumentation is primarily an appeal to reason.

Types of Argumentation: Inductive Deductive To arrange an argument so that it leads from particulars to universals, using specific cases to draw a conclusion. Example: Regular exercise promotes weight loss. Exercise lowers stress levels. Exercise improves mood and outlook. Exercise contributes to better health. (Read page 116 of the textbook.) To reach a conclusion by starting with a general principle or universal truth (major premise) and apply it to a specific case (minor premise). Deductive reasoning is often structured as a syllogism, a logical structure that uses the major premise and minor premise to reach a necessary conclusion.

Deductive continued: Major Premise: Exercise contributes to better health. Minor Premise: Yoga is a type of exercise. Conclusion: Yoga contributes to better health. The strength of deductive logic is that if the first two premises are true, then the conclusion is logically valid. Keep in mind, though, that if either premise is false (or questionable in any way), the conclusion is subject to challenge.

Questionable Premise: Major Premise: Celebrities are role models for young people. Minor Premise: Lindsey Lohan is a celebrity. Conclusion: Lindsey Lohan is a role model for young people. As you can see, the conclusion is logically valid—but is it true? You can challenge the conclusion by challenging the veracity of the major premise—whether all celebrities are role models for young people. (Read the top of page 120.) (Inductive and Deductive handout.)

Methods of Argumentation: Defend To maintain by argument, evidence, etc.; uphold: She defended her claim successfully. To support (an argument, theory, etc.) in the face of criticism; prove the validity of (a dissertation, thesis, or the like) by answering arguments and questions put by a committee of specialists. Refute To prove to be false or erroneous, as an opinion or charge. To disagree. Qualify (yes, but or no, but) To modify, limit, or restrict, as by giving exceptions. To make less harsh or severe; moderate.

Qualifying an Argument: (Qualify Notes 2 handout.) Read and discuss.