Argumentative Writing Terms

An argument is a piece of writing where the author takes a stance on a debatable topic, supporting their position with evidence, logical reasoning, and examples to persuade the reader to accept their viewpoint.

• True

• False

What is a claim?

• The facts, data, and quoted experts that support the reasoning. 

• The opposite argument that the author addresses in order to provide a rebuttal. 

• The author's statement that they are trying to prove. Claims can be about what is true, good, or should be done.

What is reasoning?

• The logic used to prove the claim, and often answers the question, "why do you think this?".

• Used in arguments to undermine the opposing view and prove an error in their argument.

• Connects the evidence and the claim, and often answers the question, “what does this mean?”. 

What is evidence?

• Common errors in reasoning that can undermine the logic of an argument.

• The author's statement that they are trying to prove.

• The facts, data, and quoted experts that support the reasoning.

Which of the following shows properly cited textual evidence?

• "This is words taken from a text."

• This is words taken from a text (Smith 35).

• "This is words taken from a text" (Smith 35).

What is a warrant?

• Connects the evidence and the claim, and often answers the question, “what does this mean?”. 

• The claim being supported. The goal of an argument is to persuade the audience that the conclusion is true.

• Used in arguments to undermine the opposing view and prove an error in their argument.

What is an opposing view / counterclaim?

• The author's statement that they are trying to prove.

• The goal of an argument is to persuade the audience that the conclusion is true.

• The opposite argument that the author addresses in order to provide a rebuttal. 

What is a rebuttal?

• The logic used to prove the claim. Reasoning is the process of thinking logically to prove the claim in a way that is understandable. 

• Used in arguments to undermine the opposing view and prove an error in their argument.

• Common errors in reasoning that can undermine the logic of an argument. 

What should go at the end of an argument?

• A concluding statement that supports the opposing view.

• A concluding statement that restates the claim.

• A concluding statement that shares new evidence.

Which image shows proper MLA formatting?

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