The Common Core and Argument Writing
Persuasion vs. Argument Ethos (author credibility) Pathos (emotional appeals) Persuasion Logos (logical appeals) Reason Argument
Common Core: What is Argument? To change reader’s point of viewTo bring about some action on the reader’s part To ask the reader to accept the writer’s explanation or evaluation of a concept, issue, or problem
Is it argument or persuasion?
Elements of Argument Claim Evidence/Grounds: relevant and verifiable Explanation/Warrant: explanation of how the evidence supports the claim; often common sense rules, laws, scientific principles or research, and well-considered definitions. Backing: support for the warrant (often extended definitions) Counter-arguments: acknowledgement of differing claims
Claim : Grandfather needs a hearing aid Evidence/Grounds: Over 70% of all people over 65 years have a hearing difficulty He constantly replies, “What I can’t hear you.” We constantly repeat ourselves to him
Claim: Grandfather needs a hearing aid Grounds: Over 70% of all people over 65 years have a hearing difficulty He constantly replies, “What? I can’t hear you.” We constantly repeat ourselves to him Warrant: A hearing aid helps most people to hear better. What other warrants can we add?
Creating an argument Claim A Miner would be a good mascot selection for our school. Evidence Mascots should be strong or tough and represent the area. They should be something people would be proud to be. Explanation Our area has mining as one of its primary industries, so the choice would represent our area. In addition, miners need to be tough because they do strenuous work—and dangerous work. They work hard to fill a need for people everywhere. That’s something to be proud of.
Warrants may be based on logos, ethos, or pathos, or values that are assumed to be shared with the listener. You try it! Complete the statement. Since most people believe _warrant___ and _evidence___ is a fact, _claim.. Reason(s) So Claim Since Warrant
Choosing an arguable issue Arguments need... An issue An arguer An audience Common ground A forum Audience outcomes Arguments fail with... No disagreement or reason to argue Risky or trivial issues Difficulty establishing common ground Standoffs or fights that result in negative outcomes