2. Read the article Identify the claim Identify the support (3-4)
Identify the evidence (1 for each support)
Identify the counterclaim and refutation
Identify the call to action
DO NOT FORM A PERSONAL OPINION YET. ALL YOU NEED TO DO IS OUTLINE THE ARGUMENT AS PRESENTED

3. Parts of an Argument
Introduction—gives important background (definitions, historical stuff, key people/dates/ideas)
Claim—aka a thesis; the thing the reader is supposed to be persuaded to think
Sometimes you find multiple claims or even implied claims
Support—aka a topic sentence; a subtopic that backs up the claim
Evidence—proof of support from a reputable expert
Counterclaim—the other side of the argument/what an opponent would say
Refutation—an explanation of why the counterclaim is flawed

4. Conclusion—a review of the argument
Call to action—what are readers supposed to do now

5. Assessing Validity Does the argument make sense?
Is there support that seems like it doesn’t prove what you think it should prove?
Does the evidence seem false or overly simple?

6. Outlining an argument
When you outline an argument, you have to strive to be unbiased
Summarize all sides equally
Use neutral words that don’t reveal your personal opinions either way.
Issue Number 1: Immigration in America
Outline the argument in a 1-page essay
Give a brief introduction
Give one paragraph for each side of the argument
Write a short conclusion to summarize the issue
DO NOT BE SENSATIONALIST

7. Research Time Go to www.BalancedPolitics.org On the Home/Issues page,
You are required to read the information on Legal Immigration
You should also select one other issue DEALING WITH IMMIGRATION to read
Write your argument outline and submit it online.

8. Building an argument To build an argument, you start with a stance
No fenceposts
Select one of the religious/morality based topics presented in class
Develop a complete argument for yourself…including a counterargument

9. Detecting an argument
Implied claims

10. Supporting an argument

11. Delivering an argument