1. The Toulmin Model

2. Who was Stephen Toulmin?
March 1922 – December 2009
Author, Educator, Philosopher
Created theories to deal with practical issues using moral reasoning.
Developed a system to break down any type of arguments and the assumptions that surround it.
Toulmin has influenced philosophy, rhetoric, and computer science.

3. The Toulmin Model Structure

4. Claim
Definition of Claim: An assertion usually supported with evidence. Usually includes a support, refute, or qualify statement. Example: Students should not have cell phones in school because it is a distraction in the classroom.

5. Grounds
Definition of Grounds: Evidence provided to bolster the Claim and support the Warrant.
Backing: In 2010, cell phone violations were the second most disciplined offense at Kentridge High School.

6. Warrant
Definition of Warrant: the implied statement that creates a logical connection between the Claim and the Backing.
Example: Even though cell phones are banned from school, it is assumed all students carry a cell phone with them, and many of them send text messages in class, but are never caught.

7. Rebuttal
Definition of Rebuttal: an answer that challenges or refutes a claim. Rebuttals may also be offered by writers who anticipate objections to the claims or evidence they offer.
Rebuttal Example: Parents may argue all students should carry cell phones with them in case of an emergency, like the Columbine shooting.

8. Qualifier
Definition of Qualifier: A word, or phrase, that limits the scope of a claim: Usually, Sometimes, In most cases, etc.
Qualifier: In most cases, it is highly unlikely an emergency will happen in school. Furthermore, the school could always contact parents making a phone call using a land line.

9. Create a Toulmin Model on your own
Qualifier – specific limits to you claim or warrant.
Grounds – reasons or evidence that supports the claim.
Claim – The position or claim being argued for.
Warrant – implied or stated principle that connects the grounds to the claim.
Rebuttal – counter arguments to the claim or warrant

10. iPad Scenario
State a Claim, the Grounds, and a Warrant supporting, refuting, or qualifying a Kent School Board initiative requiring all students to have an iPad to attend school in the Kent School District.

11. iPad Scenario continued
Claim:
Students should not be required to buy an iPad to attend a KSD school because it would cause an undo financial burden for families.
Backing:
The average iPad costs over $400 and would be unaffordable to most students.
Warrant:
All families who live within the KSD boundaries could afford an iPad.

12. Please write a Paraphrase on the Toulmin Model