Argument = the process of using logical reasoning to support a thesis (main claim), and to

convince your audience to accept, or at least to appreciate, your point of view.

Logical reasoning: expressing a point of view by offering reasons to support your main thesis.

Main claim: the thesis, or primary point, of your argument.

ARGUMENTATIVE PERSUASIVE

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‘ Here’s my side, but I’m willing to ‘My side is the only side that matters.”

give yours fair consideration.’

Persuasive writing offers a one-sided view of the topic or issue.

Argumentative writing also favours one side, but unlike persuasive writing, it acknowledges
the opposite side of the argument too.

MAIN CLAIM/THESIS

REASONS TO SUPPORT MAIN CLAIM

EVIDENCE TO SUPPORT REASONS

OTHER POINTS OF VIEW

LINK BETWEEN EVIDENCE AND CLAIM

Argumentative appeals

 Appeals to authority: for the writer to be seen as knowledgeable, credible, trustworthy

expert or public figure’ support -ETHOS
 Appeals to emotion to gain audience’s support -PATHOS
 Appeals to logic: rational order + reasons backed by evidence (numbers, statistics,
data, testimonial) -LOGOS
 Appeal to timeliness (the importance of doing something at the right time) or “kairos”.
If you indicate the urgency of an argument, you’re appealing to the readers’ sense of
time. If you can create the sense that accepting your view will have significant and
immediate impact, the audience may accept it.
Phrases to express opposing views and counterarguments

First you should acknowledge the opposing view by using an appropriate transition
phrase/word such as:

 This argument may seem convincing…

 Some might think/believe that …
 It may be logical to assume that…
 Some evidence suggests that…

Then shift the focus from the opposing view back to our own by using a clear contrasting
transition such as:

 However…
 But…
 Still…
 Nevertheless…