Argument and Persuasion: Claims, Counter-claims, Rebuttals

In Reading First identify the main idea or thesis. Then - Look for ideas that support the main idea – these are claims. Look for ideas that oppose the main idea – these are counter-claims. Look for arguments against the counter-claims - these are rebuttals.

In Reading Example: Main idea: Hunting season should be longer. Claim: Animal population too high. Claim: Some people hunt for food and need more time to get more food. Counter-claim: Many hunters only hunt for trophy and waste the meat. -Rebuttal: Research shows that 85% of hunters either keep the meat to eat or give it to someone else for food.* *Not real facts!

In Writing First, identify the issue/problem. Second, make a pro-con chart. Examine both sides and decide your position. Develop thesis statement. Choose strongest claims for main supporting arguments. Choose a counter-claim that you can refute (argue against or write a rebuttal for)

In Writing Create a working outline: Introduction: hook, issue, background, thesis Body 1: Claim (supporting argument), evidence, explanation, concluding sentence Body 2: Claim, evidence, explanation, concluding sentence Body 3: Counter-claim, rebuttal, evidence, explanation, conc. sentence Conclusion: thesis, call to action

In Writing Write first draft, focusing on content. Read and revise, focusing on content. Re-write, making revisions and corrections. Proofread and correct minor mistakes.

Pro-Con Chart Pro Con reasons “for” reasons “against”