1. Tracing & Evaluating an Argument
Argumentative Essay

2. 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

3. 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.

4. How to TRACE an ARGUMENT
Step 1: State your claim.
What your position on a particular subject?

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

6. 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

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

8. 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?

9. 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?

10. 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.

11. 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.

12. 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.”

13. 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

14. 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?

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

16. Answers What is an argument? A claim
What are three of the four steps to evaluating an argument?
Identify claim
Evaluate support
Connects Support to claim
What is counter argument/Refute the counter argument
What is ethos? Credibility
What is pathos? Emotion
What is logos? Logic-facts

17. Except NEVER use first or second person!!!!