Key Terms in Argumentation and Writing

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argument

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A logical appeal, supported by reasons and evidence, used to persuade an audience to take an action or agree with a point of view.

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thesis statement

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A sentence, in the introduction of an essay, that states the writer's position or opinion on the topic of the essay.

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search terms/search items

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The words or phrases entered into an online search engine to find information.

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relevant

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Closely connected or appropriate to what is being done or considered.

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claim

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An assertion of something as true, real, or factual.

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controversy

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Occurs when there are two sides that disagree/can be debated.

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evidence

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Knowledge or data on which to base belief; used to prove truth or falsehood-may include testimony, research, statistics, analogies, and references.

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reasoning

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Logical conclusions, judgments, or inferences based on evidence.

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ethos

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An appeal based on trust or character.

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pathos

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An appeal to emotions.