1. Writing Arguments to Support Claims In Middle School FACS and Technology Education

2. What is an Argument? An argument is a claim that must be supported by evidence. An argument is a reasoned logical way of demonstrating that the writer’s position, belief, or conclusion is valid.

3. Arguments are used to Change the audience’s point of view. Cause some action from the audience. Convince the audience to accept the speaker’s explanation or evaluation of a concept, issue or problem.

4. Argument Attempts to convince the audience to accept a claim as truth. Focuses on evidence. Is grounded in facts, data, and logic. Requires critical reading of source information for evidence. Addresses counterclaims fairly in order to present a complete argument.

5. Argument is NOT Persuasion Persuasion Appeals to credibility, character, or authority of writer Uses emotional appeals to convince audience Argument Focuses on evidence Uses facts, data & logic

6. Claims of Cause & EffectClaims of Definition or Fact Claims about Values Claims about Solutions or Policies Types of Claims

7. Claims of Cause & Effect Argues that one person, thing, or event caused something else to occur Claims of Definition or Fact Argues what a definition is or if something accepted as a “fact” is really so

8. Types of Claims Claims about Values Argues the worth of something and whether we value it or not Claims about Solutions or Policies Argues for or against specific approaches to problems

9. What Makes an Effective Claim? Takes a clear position Is debatable – people could reasonably have different opinions on the issue Is narrow enough to be supported effectively within the scope of the assignment

10. What is Universal Design for Learning (UDL)? A framework for designing curriculum in all content areas Provides rich supports for learning Reduces barriers to curriculum Maintains high achievement standards for all

11. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Three Key Ideas of UDL: Represent information for students in multiple formats and media Provide multiple pathways for students’ actions and expression Provide multiple ways to engage students’ interest and motivation

12. UDL Resources for Argument Writing Cause and Effect Graphic Organizers:http://www.educationoasis.com/curriculum/ GO/cause_effect.htmhttp://www.educationoasis.com/curriculum/ GO/cause_effect.htm Big6 Resources for Research & Evaluation of Sources http://doc.hcpss.org:8080/docushare/dsweb/View/Colle ction-15440 http://doc.hcpss.org:8080/docushare/dsweb/View/Colle ction-15440 Making Informed Decisions and Critical Thinkinghttp://www.pbslearningmedia.org/content/e4b7 14ae-96b9-4103-aa49-0467c27d0073/http://www.pbslearningmedia.org/content/e4b7 14ae-96b9-4103-aa49-0467c27d0073/