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ArgumentEssayPowerPoint-1.pptxArgumentative Writing
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An argumentative essay
Makes claims based on factual evidence (research)
Makes counterclaims – the author takes opposing views into account.
Neutralizes or “defeats” serious opposing ideas
Convinces audience through the merit and rationality of the claim and proofs offered
Logic-based
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ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY
The argumentative essay
is a genre of writing that requires you to:
1. investigate a topic;
2. collect, generate, and evaluate evidence; and
3. establish a position on the topic in a concise manner.
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Everyday Life Example
When we argue:
Bob: Batman is not a true superhero.
Suzy: Why?
Bob: He is not out to save mankind; he just wants to avenge his parents’ deaths.
Suzy: I thought the movie was good because the acting was believable.
Bob’s bad response: You are an idiot.
Bob’s good response: Yes the acting was good but the horrible special effects were too distracting and caused some awkward moments.
Claim
Evidence
Counterclaim
Refutation
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Counterargument/Counterclaim
An argument that stands in opposition to your argument/claim. The counterargument is your opponent’s (the other side’s) argument that tries to explains why you are wrong.
Elements of Argumentation
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Refutation
Simply disproving an opposing argument. It is an important skill because it is how a writer successfully convinces the audience of the validity of his/her own argument.
*You must have a two sentence refutation statement in your intro paragraph.
Elements of Argumentation
Methods
Introduce the Opposing Argument:
The writer summarizes the opposition's viewpoint openly and honestly. Ignoring the opposition is futile in that the audience is aware of the opposing arguments and will doubt the credibility of a presentation that chooses to ignore the opposition rather than deal with it.
Ways writers can begin: But _______ is not completely inaccurate. It is often argued that... It is true that... Opposing views claim...
Acknowledge parts of the opposition that are valid
The writer acknowledges that some of the opposition's claims may be valid, but the writer still shows that his own claims are stronger. The strength of the writer's claims are more convincing than the opposing viewpoints. A writer might explain the opposition's weakest points, contrasting them with his argument's strongest points.
Ways writers can begin: Admittedly, Certainly, Of course, One cannot deny that... At the same time...
3/12/2019
Free PowerPoint Template from www.brainybetty.com
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Counter the Argument
Introduce the rebuttal of the concession argument. The writer refutes the opposition's claims showing they are incorrect or inconsequential--not a real problem.
Ways writers can begin: Nevertheless, However, On the other hand, But...
Introduce the Conclusion
The conclusion should summarize why the counter argument is not a sufficient solution.
Ways writers can begin Thus, Therefore, As a result, Sometimes writers might just want to restate his/her position simply.
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Effective Counterarguments
Consider your audience when you address the counterargument.
Conceding to some of your opposition’s concerns can demonstrate respect for their opinions.
Remain tactful yet firm.
Using rude or deprecating language can cause your audience to reject your position without carefully considering your claims.
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Offering a Counterargument
Addressing the claims of the opposition is an important component in building a convincing argument.
It demonstrates your credibility as a writer – you have researched multiple sides of the argument and have come to an informed decision.
It shows you have considered other points of view – that other points of view are valid and reasonable.
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The Rhetorical Triangle – remember me?
Don’t forget to incorporate elements of ethos, pathos, and logos.
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What is a Thesis Statement?
The MOST IMPORTANT SENTENCE in your paper
Lets the reader know the main idea of the paper
Answers the question: “What am I trying to prove?”
Not a factual statement, but a claim that has to be proven throughout the paper
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Organizing Your Argument
Title
Introduction
Thesis statement
Body Paragraphs
Constructing Topic Sentences
Building Main Points
Countering the Opposition
Conclusion
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Thesis Practice
Which thesis statement is the most effective for an argument about the need for V-chips in television sets?
Parents, often too busy to watch television shows with their families, can monitor their children’s viewing habits with the aid of the V-chip.
To help parents monitor their children’s viewing habits, the V-chip should be a required feature for television sets sold in the U.S.
This paper will describe a V-chip and examine the uses of the V-chip in American-made television sets.
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Paragraphs may be ordered in several ways, depending upon the topic and purpose of your argument:
General to specific information
Most important point to least important point
Weakest claim to strongest claim
Body Paragraphs
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Research in Body Paragraphs
Researched material can aid you in proving the claims of your argument and disproving oppositional claims.
Be sure to use your research to support the claims made in your topic sentences – make your research work to prove your argument.
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Recap: Organizing Your Argument
Title
Introduction
Thesis statement
Body Paragraphs
Constructing Topic Sentences
Building Main Points
Countering the Opposition
Conclusion
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Key Terms to Learn
1. a person who disagrees with something and speaks against it
2. the act or process of forming reasons, drawing conclusions, and applying them to a case in discussion
3. point or statement that supports one’s ideas and/or thesis
4. point or statement in opposition to the argument being made in a written document or speech
5. the process of discrediting the arguments that oppose your thesis statement
6. someone who argues in favor of something; advocate
Argumentation ___
Refutation _____
Proponent _____
Opponent _____
Counter Argument (CON) ____
Pro Argument (PRO) _____
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