Argumentative Writing Terms & Appeals

A debateable or arguable topic given to writers. Research help determine the answer to this.

• Prompt or Question

• Claim

• Evidence

• Counterclaim

The side that the writer takes of the argument. This is another word for thesis statement.

(PRO or CON)

• Claim

• Reasons

• Rebuttal

• Counterclaim

The 3 main points that support the writer's claim/thesis.

• Reasons

• Rebuttal

• Evidence

• Prompt or Question

Examples, statistics, or expert opinions that support the writer's 3 main reasons. This should ALWAYS be directly quoted from a source.

• Evidence

• Claim

• Reasons

• Rebuttal

When the writer addresses the opposite side of the argument, in the 3rd body paragraph.

• Counterclaim

• Prompt or Question

• Evidence

• Claim

Follows the counterclaim, when the writer comes back with a reason why their claim is still the better claim.

• Rebuttal

• Claim

• Prompt or Question

• Evidence

Reorder the following terms according to when they appear in an argumentative essay.

• Claim or Thesis

• Counterclaim

• Rebuttal

• Call to Action

Taps into people's desire to belong.

• Bandwagon

• Appeal to Pity

• Positive Loaded Language

Uses a celebrity or expert's opinion to persuade people.

• Testimonials

• Appeal to Vanity

• Negative Loaded Language

Connects an idea with a product/person.

• Transfer

• Appeal to Fear

• Positive Loaded Language