1. Toulmin Method of Logic
Claim
Data
Warrant/Bridge
Backing/Foundation
Counterclaim
Rebuttal

2. Toulmin Method of Logic
CLAIM
The overall THESIS the writer will argue for

3. Toulmin Method of Logic
DATA
Evidence gathered to support the claim

4. Toulmin Method of Logic
WARRANT
(aka BRIDGE)
Explanation of why or how the data supports the claim, the underlying assumption that connects your data to your claim

5. Toulmin Method of Logic
BACKING
(aka FOUNDATION)
Additional logic or reasoning that may be necessary to support the warrant

6. Toulmin Method of Logic
COUNTERCLAIM
A claim that negates or disagrees with the claim/thesis
(the opposing argument)

7. Toulmin Method of Logic
REBUTTAL
Evidence that negates or disagrees with the counterclaim (shoot down the counterclaim)

8. Toulmin Method of Logic
Important:
BRIDGE
If you don’t adequately explain how your data supports your thesis, readers may draw very different conclusions.
2. COUNTERCLAIM/REBUTTAL
If you avoid the opposing side of the argument, you come across as less credible (ETHOS) and less informed about your topic.