What are the main elements of an argumentative essay? Objective Rationale Today we will produce clear, concise notes from a Power Point And, identify important elements of an academic argumentative essay We need to know what is expected when we write an argumentative essay

Tracing & Evaluating an Argument Argumentative Essay 7W4 Produce clear and coherent functional writing (notes)

Words you Need to Know! Argument: The speaker states a claim supported by reasons and evidence Claim: The speaker’s position on a problem or an issue Support: Reasons and evidence used to prove the claim The strength of an argument relies on the support/evidence, not the actual “claim.” Reasons: Declarations made to explain an action or belief Evidence: Includes specific facts, statistics, or examples

Support Types of Support Evidence Reasons There are several types of support for an argument, but let’s look at the basics: Support Reasons Evidence Statements that explain or prove your position on something. Specific facts, examples, information.

How to TRACE an ARGUMENT Step 1: State your claim. What your position on a particular subject? Your claim needs to be clear and singular. DO NOT ARGUE WITH YOURSELF IN A PAPER BY CLAIMING BOTH SIDES OF AN ARGUMENT

How to TRACE an ARGUMENT Step 2: Look for reasons and evidence. Find the support that backs up your argument/claim.

How to TRACE an ARGUMENT Step 3: Figure out how to connect the claim with your support. How can you connect each idea? Claim Reasons Evidence

How to TRACE an ARGUMENT Step 4: Identify counter-arguments. (Statements that have opposite viewpoints) How would people argue against your claim?

How to TRACE an ARGUMENT Step 5: Refute the counter-arguments. (why are the counter arguments wrong or irrelevant?) How will you answer their counterpoint?

How to EVALUATE an Argument Think about the writing you do here in the classroom— Does your argument make sense and have convincing reasons and evidence? Can you show opposing arguments on the topic and refute them? What other details can you use to build a convincing argument?

PERSUASIVE TECHNIQUES Persuasive techniques are used to get people to believe your argument or claim. There are three major types: Ethos: (Credibility/Character) This appeal brings in reliable experts or acts as proof that the author/speaker is an expert in the topic. Logos: (Logic) This appeal brings in raw statistics or facts to backup the argument. Pathos: (Emotion) This appeal brings in emotions to connect with the audience, like fear, happiness, or guilt.

Here’s an EXAMPLE! By Mr. Kyle Deminie Thor is the best Avenger. He is the son of Odin, literally the Norse God of Asgard, which means his hero-ness is more credible since he was born as one, not becoming one through riches or creepy science experiments. He understands his powers come from his behavior, as he lost them for a while when he was acting badly, unlike Hulk, who only has powers when he is unstable emotionally. He has an amazing accent which makes people want to listen to him and do what he says. For these reasons, Thor is the best Avenger.

TRACE IT! Claim? Support? “Thor is the best Avenger.” Evidence — “He is the son of Odin, literally the Norse God of Asgard.” Reasons — “which means his hero-ness is more credible since he was born as one...” Counter-Argument — “unlike Hulk, who only has powers when he is unstable emotionally.”

TRACE IT MORE! Reason: Counter: Pathos Thor is the best Avenger. He is the son of Odin, literally the Norse God of Asgard, which means his hero-ness is more credible since he was born as one, not becoming one through riches or creepy science experiments. He understands his powers come from his behavior, as he lost them for a while when he was acting badly, unlike Hulk, who only has powers when he is unstable emotionally. He has an amazing accent which makes people want to listen to him and do what he says. For these reasons, Thor is the best Avenger. Reason: Counter: Pathos

Other things to consider? EVALUATE IT Other things to consider? Does the evidence support the claim? Do the ideas make sense? Has the counter-argument been addressed? What persuasive techniques does the author/speaker use?

Do’s and Don’ts Do answer the prompt Don’t focus on just one article Do use evidence such as facts or expert opinion Don’t rely on philosophy Do use professional academic language Don’t ever use first or second person! Do be respectful of the counter-argument Don’t resort to name calling! Do be thorough (at least 300-500 words) Don’t be general in your points

Quick Quiz What is an argument? What are the five steps to evaluating an argument? What is ethos? What is pathos? What is logos?

Answers What is an argument? An argument is a claim supported by reasons and evidence. What are the five steps to evaluating an argument? Identify claim Evaluate support Connects Support to claim What is counter argument? Refute the counter argument What is ethos? Ethos shows Credibility. What is pathos? Pathos uses Emotion. What is logos? Logos is the use of Logic and facts.

Except NEVER use first or second person!!!!