1. Argumentative Writing

2. Difference between argument and persuasion
Argumentative
Persuasive
Makes claims based on factual evidence
May make a claim based on opinion
Makes counter-claims. The author takes opposing view points.
May not take opposing ideas into account.
Neutralizes serious opposing ideas
Convinces audience through claims and proof
Convinces audience through emotion
Often compares texts or ideas
Logic-based
Emotion-based

3. Key Terms
Teachers may also need to emphasize an idea many students may resist: that their argument is made stronger by introducing a good, solid counterclaim. (Note: Some students will think this idea is whackadoo – why, they’ll reason, should you put words in the mouth of your opponent?) Teachers will need to demonstrate the value of the “preemptive strike,” the virtue of framing the other person’s argument to one’s own advantage.

4. Finding Arguments
What is the speaker’s claim? What does he want you to believe?
What reasons does he give for his claim?
What facts, quotations, evidence, or specific details does he give to support those reasons?
Is there a counterclaim? What is it?

5. Formatting your essay Make a claim Present a counterclaim
Neutralize counterclaim
Present key points proving your claim
Clarify the relationship(s) between the texts and claims
Make one last key point in your conclusion that proves your point
Make sure to establish and maintain a formal style and objective tone
Maintain academic diction
Use words and phrases to line the major sections of the text to create cohesive writing

6. We choose to go to the moon
Claim:
Counterclaim: