1. Writing Prompt
Pick one of the pictures on the table and identify what argument is presented through the use of the image. Explain what leads you to this conclusion.

2. What is happening in the photos?
Writing Prompt
What is happening in the photos?
What is an argument?
What ISN’T an argument?

3. What is Argument?
Argument Clinic

4. Argument Versus Persuasion
Uses evidence and reasoning to express a point of view and uncover a truth
Magazine and journal articles are arguments
Persuasion
Aggressively seeks to change the readers’ opinion and stimulate an action based on the author’s “truth.”
Debate and advertising are forms of persuasion
Both consider audience and purpose

5. Argument Versus Persuasion
Consider the images at in the envelope at your table
As a group, sort them on a scope with one end “Argument” and one end “Persuasion”

6. Argument Arguments based on Character Arguments based on Emotion
Arguments based on Facts and Reason

7. Logical and Emotional Arguments
With a partner write a logical and emotional claim for or against 2-3 of the listed topics.

8. Logical and Emotional Arguments
Healthy school lunches will boost a child’s immune system
Healthy school lunches are the right of every child living in poverty.

9. Types of Arguments Toulmin Argument Rogerian Argument Adversarial Tone
Although concessions may be made, arguments mostly based on refutation
Opponent is “wrong” and will be overcome by evidence
Nonconfrontational, collegial, friendly tone
Respects other’s views and allows for more than one truth
Seeks to achieve common ground, not to convince 100%

10. Rachel Bear and Paula Uriarte, Boise State Writing Project TCs
The Chin article
CLAIMS (what does she think? Column one)
The principles she articulates.
DATA (What makes her say so? Column two)
The standards.
What she knows about writing instruction.
WARRANTS (So what? Column three)
The so what connecting the standards and the principles.
The Chin principles from slide 16 are set up to mirror Toulmin without using the terminology. A note catcher similar to the one used on slide 16 can be used with students to begin exploring the parts of argument in a text.
Rachel Bear and Paula Uriarte, Boise State Writing Project TCs

11. Rachel Bear and Paula Uriarte, Boise State Writing Project TCs
The Toulmin Model
“Toulmin was looking for a method that accurately described the way that people make convincing and reasonable arguments.  Because Toulmin argument takes into account the complications in life—all those situations when we have to qualify our thoughts with words such as sometimes, often, presumably, unless and almost—his method isn’t as airtight as formal logic, that is, the kind that uses syllogisms.  But for exactly that reason, Toulmin logic has become a powerful and, for the most part, practical tool for shaping argument in the real world.” (Lunsford, Ruszkiewicz, Walters, 2004)
One reason Toulmin is a viable model is that it tries to replicate the way people argue in real life. It is useful to think of examples of this in the current news media or personal examples.
Rachel Bear and Paula Uriarte, Boise State Writing Project TCs

12. Elements of an Argument

13. What’s a good claim? Statement of BELIEF based on IDEAS
Should be ARGUABLE and DEFENSIBLE
Answers the question WHAT (do you think)
Should be based on EVIDENCE of some sort
Often QUALIFIED in real-world arguments
In order to live an epic life, individuals should press forward to accomplish their goals

14. What is data or evidence?
Answers the question What Makes You Say So?
Could be STATISTICS, RESEARCH DATA
Could also be ANECDOTES, EXAMPLES, STORIES, QUOTES
Abraham Lincoln studied law for three years on his own to become a lawyer.

15. What is a warrant? Explains how the EVIDENCE supports the CLAIM
Based on generally accepted RULES
In order to live an extraordinary life, an individual must accomplish worthwhile goals.

16. Counterclaims/Rebuttals
Shows awareness of potential audience rejections
Addresses what someone who objected might say and includes a response to the objection
Some might argue that there are people who just fall into fame; however, further investigation usually proves they paid the price at some time in their life.

17. Identify Argument Elements!
Identify the stories the writer uses as evidence
Identify the primary claim and counterclaim
Highlight all sentences that seem to state a reason to accept the writer’s claim about failure.

18. Argument Writing Tips Determine the claim/thesis/proposition
Take account of your audience
Gather the necessary supporting evidence
Settle on an organizational pattern
Consider counterclaims/rebuttals to your argument
Avoid faulty reasoning
Conclude forcefully – encourage specific course of action

19. Composing to Practice: Candy Bar Arguments
Your Task:
In your group of 3-4, utilize the given candy part to create an AD that argues that it is the best candy bar.
Work together to develop an ARGUMENT

20. Composing to Practice: Candy Bar Arguments
Group
Make claims – don’t forget to qualify
Gather data/evidence – from wrappers, from experience, from cell phone research
Explain why data/evidence supports the claim
Address counterarguments with rebuttals
Prepare & label argument on sheet and post when complete

21. Muddy/Marvy - Feedback
I’m not clear about …
I’m a bit confused about…
I’d like clarification on …
Question:
I really liked…
I understand…
I can really use …
Marvelous ……
Boise State Writing Project 2012