Helpful Terms in Persuasion
1. Assertion: an opinion stated as fact. All arguments contain an assertion. When you write
an essay, your thesis statement is an assertion.
Thesis for argumentation: start your thesis with a concession (see next page for the
language of concession), then address the prompt and state your position. See the
examples below:
Prompt: Is it better to live in a small town or a big city?
Ex. 1: Although many would prefer the excitement of a large city, I believe that small
town is the best place in which to truly develop as a person.
Ex. 2: It seems clear that a small town provides a person with all that they need;
however, a large city allows people to live the best life that they can.
*Tip for creating a strong thesis: Write out your position, and then write ‘why’ next to that
statement. In your thesis, answer the question ‘why.’
Ex: It is better to live in small town. Why? A small town is a place that allows you to truly
develop as a person.
2. Generalization: an assertion about a group or class.
Ex: “Most Americans are prosperous enough to donate money to charities.”
3. Overgeneralization: An assertion about a group or class that overstates the case.
Ex: “All Americans waste money on luxuries.”
*When we evaluate arguments, we notice the speaker’s assertions and generalizations.
*If the generalizations seem reasonable, are qualified, and are supported with evidence, we tend
to find the argument valid.
*If the speaker relies on overgeneralizations with little or no support, we tend to discredit the
argument.
Where do you get your evidence from without the internet??? Your brain! Use the
acronym “CHELPS” to remember what you evidence bank can come from:
C—current events
H—history
E—experience
L—literature
P—pop culture
S—sports, science
The Language of Concession
To establish your own ethos appeal—in other words, to show yourself as a reasonable thinker
who is willing to entertain the possibility of differing points of view—it is important in your
argument to recognize opposing viewpoints. You make a concession, noting and explaining the
views, which oppose your own.
Certain words/phrases help you do this gracefully. These words are useful to introduce
your concession argument:
However,
On the other hand,
It is also true that…
Admittedly,
While it is certainly true that…
I concede that…
Obviously,
Granted,
It seems clear that,
Some make a convincing argument that
Not everyone agrees with this position, however…
Some argue that…
Then, when you have finished explaining the view of the other side, certain phrases and
words will take you back to your own point of view. These words are useful when you rebut
the points made in your concession.
More importantly, however,
But more evidence supports the argument that…
It is quite clear, however, that…
But we must remember…
These points do not satisfactorily refute the conclusion that…
We must remember, however,
*Thanks to Jennifer Troy, Becky Talk, LayingtheFoundation.org, THEY SAY I SAY Graff and
Birkenstein