Unit 1 Flashcards
Argument
An attempt to persuade a reader (or listener) to accept something. An argument must have a conclusion and at least one reason.
Conclusion
The statement of something that the writer (or speaker) wants the reader (or listener) to accept based on the reasons given
Reason
A statement that aims to persuade the reader to accept a conclusion
Claims
A statement that does not have any reasons to support it, and thus is not a full argument and can be challenged
Argument indicators
A word or short phrase that helps the reader to identify the elements of an argument
Indicating a reason: because, as, since, due to, such as
Indicating a conclusion: therefore, so, thus, it follows that, consequently, should, ought
Counter-argument
An additional argument that is against, or counter to, what the conclusion seeks to establish. The writer normally presents the counter-argument in order to dismiss it
Counter-assertion
When the writer presents a reason that would support the opponent’s argument, rather than their full argument, the writer is making a counter-assertion/claim.
Hypothetical Claim
A claim that is in the form “If [this], then [that].” Indicator words include: if, provided that, on condition that, given that
Hypothetical Reasoning
Looks at the consequences that might occur if something were the case
Assumption
The missing reason in an argument; the writer has accepted the assumption, but not stated it. The assumption is essential for the conclusion to be drawn
Fact
Information that can be verified and is held to be true
Factual claim
A statement or judgment based on information that is verified and held to be true
Evidence
Something that is used to develop or support a reason. Evidence is often in the form of numerical data, an estimate or a factual claim
Example
Something which is used as evidence because it is characteristic of the same kind of things or because it can serve to illustrate a principle
Credibility
Whether someone’s claims or evidence can be believed
Plausibility
Whether or not a claim or piece of evidence is reasonable
Credibility Criteria
the method of determining a person’s credibility - RAVEN (reputation, ability to see, vested interest, expertise, neutrality)
Ability to Perceive
A source’s ability to use any of the five senses to assess the situation
Corroboration
Confirmation of, or support for, evidence given by one source by another source
Inconsistency
When evidence or an argument contains two claims which cannot be correct at the same time
Bias
Tendency to be prejudiced against or in favour of certain beliefs or people. This gives a motive or subconscious reason to lie, misrepresent or distort information
Neutrality
Being impartial; having no reason to favour either side in a dispute or difference of opinion
Vested interest
Personal interest, usually financial, in a state of affairs or in an organisation leading to the expectation of personal gain from a favourable outcome
Motive
A factor that may cause a person to act in a particular way
Expertise
Skills, experience and training that give someone specialist knowledge and judgement
Reputation
What is generally said or believed about the character of a person or an organisation
