Rogerian Argument Based on the principles of psychologist Carl Rogers

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Origins of this principle Origins of this principle Based on Carl Rogers’ theory that people involved in disputes should not respond to each other until they fully and fairly state the other person’s position.

The Purpose Using the Rogerian strategy will strengthen your argument. Rogerian strategy acknowledges differing viewpoints.

Parts of the Rogerian Argument 1. Introduction 2. Re-Statement 3. Writer’s position 4. Benefits to opponent

1. Introduction The writer describes an issue well enough to show that he/she fully understands. Recognizes that there is an opposing viewpoint. Respects the alternative position. “Let’s meet in the middle.”

2. Re-Statement The writer describes cases/contexts in which the alternative position may be legitimate. “You may be right sometimes…”

3. Writer’s Position / Explanation of the Speaker’s Stance The writer states his position and presents circumstances in which it is valid. This is where the writer supports his views with evidence. The writer states VALID POINTS of his argument. “This is why my position is right.”

4. Conclusion / Benefits to Opponent The writer explains to the opponent how the opponent would benefit from adopting the writer’s position. “See what you might gain by agreeing with me?”

Let’s Summarize… Rogerian arguments steer clear of inflammatory and stereotypical language. They emphasize how both sides of the argument might benefit by working together. They advocate a win-win outcome.

YOUR Rogerian Assignment Should include 4 paragraphs MLA Format Complete sentences and paragraphs

Acknowledge the opposing viewpoint. State your opinion. Imply that YOUR view stands on more solid ground. Paragraph 1

Provide a 2 to 3 sentence summary of the opposing viewpoint. Explain what is valuable about the opposition arguments. Paragraph 2

1-2 body paragraphs Use more detail to present your arguments by raising the opposing viewpoints Emphasize the most important and valid points of your argument You may concede the validity of some of those opposing viewpoints:  “Granted…”  “Nevertheless…”  “Even so…” Paragraph 3

Highlight the benefits of your argument Highlight the benefits to others if they change viewpoints Paragraph 4

Use the textbook (p ) for guidance MLA format Use in-text citations in EVERY paragraph Include a Works Cited Upload to TIIC YOUR Assignment

You have been seeing Chris for about a month. Chris lives about 30 minutes away from you. You have a date this Saturday, and Chris wants to take you to a limited-release movie that you’ve been wanting to see for months at the mall near where Chris lives. You know the movie won’t be shown in a closer theater. By the time the movie would be over, it would be past your curfew, and by the time you would get home, you would be about an hour past your curfew. You need to ask your parents’ permission to go with Chris, and although they like Chris, you know they are very strict when it comes to curfew. How are you going to convince them to let you go to this movie? Day 2 – Warm Up – A Hypothetical Situation:

How would you respond to this situation – from YOUR point of view?

Consider this from the OPPOSING viewpoint – What arguments might there be AGAINST your point of view?

How are you and your audience similar? What basic issues can you and your audience agree on?

Film clip Was this an effective argument???

SKIT

With a partner Get a topic Decide who is the “pro” / who is the “con” Create your OWN skit!