Analyzing, Evaluating, Planning An Argument Flashcards
Parts of a formal argument
- Claim
- Reasoning and Evidence
- Counterclaim
- Warrant
What is claim?
Statement of the author’s position on an issue
What is reasoning and evidence?
Facts, figures, and examples that answer the question “why should I accept this claim?”
What are counterclaims?
Discussions on opposing points of view–what is the counterclaim and why is it wrong?
What is warrant?
Values or beliefs on which a writer bases the argument’s reasoning
By identifying missing parts, you can identify ___ arguments
Weak
Argumentative text
Text that makes a claim and backs it up using reasoning and evidence
Steps in analyzing an argument
- Preview text to see what it reveals about the author and intended audience
- Skim to find author’s claim, reasoning, and evidence
- Recall what you know
- Annotate and identify claim, reasoning, evidence, counterclaim, and warrant
- Summarize argument in your own words
It is important to analyze arguments before forming an opinion because
You may fall victim to emotional appeals and may accept the claim prematurely
Evaluate
Carefully examine and judge
An effective argument
Sounds convincing and gives good reasons to believe the author’s claim
Logical
If factual evidence backs up reasons and if reasons support the claim
Validity
If the claim is being supported with solid reasons and factual evidence
Rhetoric
Language that has a strong persuasive effect; appeals to pity, indignation, anger, and fear
The purpose of argumentative writing is to
Affect the way people think or act