{ Digging Deeper Into
Argumentation
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When constructing an argument, consider
whether your statement requires justification.
A statement that is a verifiable fact or a
commonly accepted assumption or belief does
not need justification.
Justification- the first step
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President JFK was assassinated on November
22, 1963.
Children shouldn’t smoke.
The death penalty is just retribution for
murders.
Only people between the ages of 18 and 75
should be able to receive a driver’s license.
The Justification Test
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Any argument involves a claim supported by
reasons and evidence.
The Toulmin Model
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A claim is an arguable point. Apply the test of
justification to your claim before including it in an
argument.
One can make a claim about meaning- “What is
dubstep?”
One can make a claim about policy- “Our federal
government should strengthen anti-piracy laws.”
One can make a claim about consequences- “Because
adversity affects many in a positive way, the
challenges in one’s life can lead to an improved
quality of life.”
The Claim
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Look at one of the claims you made regarding
Spencer or Walker’s essay. Or your argument
surrounding their essays.
Is Your Claim Justified?
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Knowing that the whole world does not agree
with you, you must not make an absolute
proposition. Seek common ground with your
readers. Foster a degree of trust. Explain
circumstances.
Sometimes, probably, usually, in most cases…
Qualify
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Find the same claim you just tested for
justification and now make sure it is qualified.
Qualify one of your
claims.
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The audience must be able to follow your train
of thinking. This is where a warrant comes it.
To justify your claim, you need to show some
thought process, or analysis.
Warrant
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“Sarah graduated from Camas High School, an
excellent school, therefore she should do well
in college.”
Is this statement
warranted?
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“Sarah graduated from Camas High School, an
excellent school. She had great study habits.
She had a 3.9 GPA and was ranked top 10 in
her class and took upper level classes. She
should do well in college.”
How about this one?
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A warrant shows analysis.
A warrant IS NOT always evidence.
Be Careful!
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Typical and representative
Relevant
Specific and detailed
Sufficient
Ethos, pathos, logos
Evidence
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Add appropriate and VARIED evidence.
Look at your
Walker/Spencer argument:
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Without tone and voice, you are a robotic
product of public education.
Tone and Voice
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Describe your intended tone.
Do you intend to shift tones? If so, where and
why?
Your Walker/Spencer
Essay
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Voice
Diction and syntax
Rhetorical devices- we’re not learning them for
nothing! Pick TWO to use in your essay.