Formulating Arguments and Improving Speaking Skills Logic and Debate Formulating Arguments and Improving Speaking Skills

What is Logic? Merriam Webster: “the science that studies the formal processes used in thinking and reasoning” Key Words Science, studies Formal Thinking, reasoning

Informal Logic Used to assess and analyze arguments Process: Identify claim/argument Analyze support and evidence Identify logical fallacies: break downs and incorrect structuring of arguments and beliefs

Fact vs. Opinion Facts are more trustworthy than opinions Facts can be checked Use facts to support arguments Opinions are not trustworthy Avoid using opinions in arguments Everyone has different opinions

Fact vs. Opinion Activity: http://www.teachingandlearningresources.co.uk/factoropinion.shtml

Sequence of Events If sequence is not logical, it can cause confusion and inaccuracies Chronological order Use transitions Examples? At first, then, suddenly, next, after

Sequence of Events Activity http://www.quia.com/pp/1146.html?AP_rand=1740646461

Cause and Effect Shows relationships between events This happened because this happened Use transitions Examples? Due to, because, therefore, consequently, so, since, because of, but

Cause and Effect Activity: http://lrs.ed.uiuc.edu/students/fwalters/cause.html

Preparing for a Debate Topic Take a stand Research Sources to support your argument Sources should be credible and reliable (facts not opinions) Structure your argument

Structure of Argument Claim/Argument Reason Reason Reason Evidence

Speaking Skills Make note-cards Look at the audience highlight key words for emphasis Look at the audience Speak loudly, slowly, and clearly Avoid mispronunciations and stutters Shows lack of confidence, lack of vocabulary knowledge Be aware of body movements Distracting, shows nervousness or lack of focus