1. LISA MULKA WRIT 122 LANSING COMMUNITY COLLEGE Argumentative Writing

4. Argumentative Elements Argumentative Structures Overview—Read First! Claim Reasons Evidence Opposition Appeals Quiz Yourself Practice Overview—Read First! Toulmin Argument Classical Argument Rogerian Argument Quiz Yourself Practice Click on each term to learn more. When you have read through each term, quiz yourself and complete the practice!

28. Toulmin Structure Claim State the position being argued for Qualifier Specification to limits of a claim—look up the list of qualifiers on page 161 of Everything’s An Argument Reasons Sound and logical reasons in support of claim Warrants The chain of reasoning that connects the claim to the data Evidence/Backing Support, justification and reasons to back up warrants Rebuttal/Response Exceptions to the claim, description and rebuttal of counterarguments.

29. Classical Structure Introduction Capture the reader’s attention and interest. Establish qualifications, credibility and build initial common ground with audience. State your claim, but demonstrate a fair and evenhanded style. Statement of Background Supply the reader with any necessary information in order to understand the context of your argument. Position Provide a more in-depth look at your position and outline the major points that will follow. Proof Present good reasons, logical and emotional appeals and evidence to support claim. Explain and justify assumptions. Refutation Anticipate and refute opposing arguments. Explain why your view is superior and demonstrate that you have considered the issue thoroughly and have reached the only reasonable conclusion. Conclusion Summarize primary points, extend the implications of your claim and reinforce your credibility.

30. Rogerian Structure Introduction Provide the audience with the problem you hope to resolve. Present the issue as a problem helps raise the possibility of positive change. Opposing Views In an accurate and neutral tone, present the views of opposition in order to demonstrate you are willing to listen without judgment to all sides of the issue. Understanding Show that the opposition’s concerns may be valid in some situations. Maintain a level of understanding with the audience. Under what conditions might you share these views? Position Statement Now that you have fully considered the opposition, go into detail on your own position providing clear evidence and reasons. Statement of Context Describe situations in which you hope your views will be recognized. By showing that your position has merit in certain contexts, you recognize that people won’t always agree with you but there is room to establish common ground. Statement of Compromise Appeal to the opposition by showing how they would benefit from accepting your position. Determine how a compromise would benefit the audience.