ENGL 112 Toulmin Argument Paper ----- at least 1200 words

Try it Toulmin Style!

Here's a basic introduction to Toulmin. (Note: He says "evidence or grounds" when we say "backing"—same thing.)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NreDN7PTOD8

Here is a video tutorial on Toulmin (three parts): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gRaC_vZiD8

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bYDO75QNPPA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GRDYspT1u68

The following exercise is designed to instruct you in the Toulmin method of argumentation. (Adapted from X.J. Kennedy, The Bedford Guide for College Writers.)

For this exercise, think about how you would answer the three questions about claim, backing, and warrant for each item. I'll start! 1. I see that it's snowing outside, so I should wear my boots. What is the claim? I should wear my boots. What is the backing? It is snowing outside. What is the warrant? Snow could hurt my feet.

2. Ivy Tech should adopt a better learning management system because Blackboard's slow and limited functionality impedes student online learning. What is the claim? Ivy Tech should change learning management systems. What is the backing? Blackboard is slow with limited functionality. What is the warrant? Online learning is dependent on good technology.

3. James Joyce's narrative experiment of the use of stream-of-consciousness makes Ulysses an example of a modernist novel.

What is the claim? Ulysses is a modernist novel.

What is the backing? Joyce uses the experiment of stream-of-consciousness narration in this novel.

What is the warrant? One feature of modernist novels is an experiment with narrative techniques.

4. The United States should provide free housing to everyone because many citizens lack decent housing. What is the claim? What is the backing? What is the warrant?

5. By expanding the capacity for "word-of-mouth" recommendation, social media is the best form of book marketing for authors. What is the claim?

What is the backing? What is the warrant?