1. What is an Argument?
“Not an inch to the west! Not an inch to the east!
I’ll stay here, not budging! I can and I will. If it makes you and me and the whole world stand still!”
--from Dr. Suess’ “The Zax"

2. So what is an argument?

3. Why write an argument? Suggest a certain view on a topic
Propose a solution
to a problem
Offer a plan
of action that
should be followed.
A writer’s goal when arguing is always to persuade the audience to see his/her point of view on a topic.

4. Parts of An Argument Position/ Claim Reason(s) Supporting details
Explanation
Supporting details

5. Parts of an Argument (In Essay Structure)
Position/Claim
Reasons
Supporting Details
(Thesis)
(Analysis)
(Body Paragraphs)
Explanation
(Specific examples, quotes)

6. What are some types of support writers could use?

7. More Types of Support Vivid descriptions Examples Analogy (Comparison)
Personal examples
Specific examples
General examples
Hypothetical examples
Anecdote (Narrative)
Vivid descriptions
Analogy (Comparison)
Outside sources
Facts, statistics, research findings
Expert opinion
Causes & Effects

8. Counterargument & Refutation
Writer often address a major concern from the opposing side.
Why do we do this?
Introduce the opposing
concerns
Explain why it’s wrong, weak or limited
This point is invalid because…
That may be true, but….

9. Counter-Arguments In Real Life!
I should be allowed to go
the movies.
Counter-argument:
I know that you think its
too late because I have
school tomorrow.
Refute:
But I’ve already done all my
homework and tomorrow is
a late day.

10. Audience
The audience will influence the content and style a writer will use.
Content includes….
reasons, counter-arguments, supporting details/ evidence.
Style includes….
word choice, tone, formal/ informal elements, relationship to reader (POV)

11. Parts of Your Argument What is your position on ________’s essay?
What elements of the essay make it _________?
What examples do you have to prove
_______, _________, and ________ ?
(the elements)
Explain: How do the examples prove your position?