Argument vs.
Assertion
Assertion
• A judgment or conclusion that is presented by itself
without reasons to support it
o EX: Mr. Jones is a horrible teacher.
• Made to seem as though idea is an accepted fact
• Often results from subjective reasoning
o A conclusion obtained from reasons an individual
believes to be true
o Individual accepts the conclusion, he asserts it as
fact
Assertion Con’t
• Labeling (name-calling)
o Occur in emotionally charged situations
• Not dominated by logical reasoning
o Considered a type of assertion
• Innuendo
o An assertion that is not directly stated, but
implied or hinted at
Argument
• Conversation that contains at least two statements
o Includes one reason and one conclusion
• Some arguments contain 3 parts:
o 1. reason (evidence)
o 2. signpost word/transition
• Therefore, hence, accordingly, as a result, so,
consequently, thus, because, since, as
indicated by…
o 3. conclusion
Argument Example
Reason
Signpost word
Conclusion
Exercise stimulates
the brain, releases
endorphins, and
heightens
awareness;
therefore, athletes
are better students
than others.