Argumentative Writing
The Do’s and Don’ts
Why learn to write an argument?
Being able to write an argument
helps you to become a logical
communicator.
What is an argument?
An argument is a claim or position
supported by reasons and evidence.
What are the elements (parts) of
an argument?
1. Claim – a writer’s position on
a problem or issue (In writing,
your claim will be your thesis
statement.)
What are the elements (parts) of
an argument?
2. Reason – This explains WHY
you made your claim or WHY
you believe the way you do. (In
an argument essay, you will
need 3 main reasons.
What are the elements (parts) of
an argument?
3. Counterargument – This is an
argument made against your
point-of-view. It shows the
other side of the argument.
(You must be able to explain
why other side is wrong.)
What are the elements (parts) of
an argument?
4. Support – Support includes
reasons and evidence that are
used to prove your point.
How do I know the argument is
strong?
1. The reasons – Make sense.
How do I know the argument is
strong?
2. The reasons – are presented
in a logical and effective order.
How do I know the argument is
strong?
3. The claim and reasons – are
adequately supported by
solid evidence.
How do I know the argument is
strong?
4. The evidence – is adequate
(enough of it), accurate, and
appropriate.
How do I know the argument is
strong?
5. The logic is – Sound/Solid
(no instances of faulty
reasoning).
How do I know the argument is
strong?
6. The argument– anticipates
counterarguments and
explains why they are wrong.
Ways to support an argument:
Statistics
Facts that are stated in
numbers
Examples
Specific instances that
explain points
Observations
Events/situations that
you yourself have seen
Ways to support an argument:
Anecdotes
Brief stories that
illustrate points.
Quotations
Direct statements
from authorities
(experts)
Support your opinion! Why do you feel the way you do
about the issue? What facts, statistics, examples,
quotations, anecdotes, or expert opinion support your
view? Can you argue against the counterarguments?
How will my paper look when I’m
finished?
Paragraph 1:
Introduction
States the issue, your
position, and your
reasons.
States the opposing
Paragraph 2:
Counterargument viewpoint on the issue
and why it is wrong.
How will my paper look when I’m
finished?
Paragraphs 3,4,5:
Reasons 1,2,3
Each paragraph will
present a different reason
why you believe the way
you do with evidence to
support.
Paragraph 2:
Counterargument
Explain why the reader should
care. Answer “So What?” End
with a call to action.
What will make my argument weak?
Types of Fallacy
(faulty reasoning)
1. Circular
reasoning
Definition
Example
Repeating the “I’m tired because
same argument I don’t have any
energy.”
in different
words
What will make my argument weak?
Types of Fallacy
(faulty reasoning)
Definition
Example
2.
Making a claim “You never get me
anything.”
Overgeneralizat too broad
ion
(words like all,
everyone,
never, etc.)
What will make my argument weak?
Types of Fallacy
(faulty reasoning)
Definition
Example
3. Hasty
Offers too little “She left after
fifteen minutes.
generalization evidence or
biased evidence She must not like
us.”
What will make my argument weak?
Types of Fallacy
(faulty reasoning)
Definition
Example
“All rock stars are
4. Stereotyping Statements
self-centered.”
based on
gender,
ethnicity, race,
social group,
etc.
Traits of Strong Writing:
Ideas – logical/focused, clear and
easy to understand,
connect/supported by evidence
2. Organization – Ideas are easy to
follow and don’t jump around.
Writer uses strong transitions and
proper structure.
1.
Traits of Strong Writing:
Conventions – Language and tone
are consistent. Sentences are detailed
and writer varies word choice. Few
grammatical mistakes.
4. Content and Understanding –
Content demonstrates in-depth
understanding or prompt/topic.
3.