Writing Arguments

with Valid Reasoning and Sufficient Evidence

 Lesson Target
Introduce precise claim(s), distinguish them from alternate or

01 opposing claims, and establish clear relationships among

claim(s), counterclaims, reasons, and evidence.

02 Develop claim(s) and counterclaims fairly, supplying

evidence for each while acknowledging strengths and
limitations.
Use words, phrases, and clauses to create cohesion and clarify
03 relationships between claim(s), reasons, evidence, and
counterclaims.
 What is a Claim?
A claim is a statement or proposition put forward as true, supported by evidence and
reasoning. It is the main argument or point of view that the writer is advocating.

In argumentative writing, claims serve as the backbone of the argument and should
be precise, specific, and focused. They provide a clear direction for the entire piece
of writing.
 Differentiating
Claims

Start by clearly identifying the
main claim or the primary
argument you are presenting. The
main claim represents your
position or viewpoint on the
topic or issue you are addressing.
Counterclaims are opposing
viewpoints that challenge your
main claim. These counterclaims
present alternative perspectives
or arguments that can challenge
your position.
Put yourself in the shoes of
someone who holds an opposing
viewpoint. Think about the
different reasons, evidence, or
logic they might use to support
their position.
 Differentiating
Claims

Recognize the existence of
counterclaims by explicitly
acknowledging them. This shows
fairness, credibility, and a
thoughtful consideration of
multiple perspectives.
Differentiate your main claim
from counterclaims by analyzing
their opposing elements. Look
for the fundamental differences
in the underlying reasoning,
evidence, values, or conclusions.
Address counterclaims directly
within your argument. Provide a
thoughtful response that refutes
or counters the opposing
viewpoint using valid reasoning
and evidence.
 Note
It is essential to distinguish the claim(s) from
opposing claims. This involves recognizing
different viewpoints related to the topic being
discussed. By acknowledging alternate claims,
the writer demonstrates an understanding of the
complexity of the topic and strengthens their own
argument by addressing potential
counterarguments.
Note
A well-structured argument establishes clear
relationships among claims, counterclaims,
reasons, and evidence. This includes
demonstrating how claims support the main
argument, addressing counterarguments,
presenting supporting reasons, and providing
evidence that strengthens the overall argument.
 For Example:
Suppose the topic is whether students should be allowed to use mobile phones in school.

The claim could be: Counterclaims might include:

"Students should be "Mobile phones

allowed to use distract students
mobile phones in from learning."
school."

Establishing clear relationships among these claims involves presenting evidence and
reasoning to support the main claim while acknowledging and addressing the
counterclaims.
 Organizing
Arguments
Effective organization is crucial in argumentative writing as it
helps convey the writer's message clearly and persuasively.

A well-structured argument allows readers to follow the logical

progression of ideas, understand the relationships between
different elements of the argument, and grasp the overall
coherence of the writing. This can be done using various
organizational strategies, such as Toulmin Model.
Toulmin Model
The Toulmin model is a widely used framework for
organizing arguments.

It consists of six elements: claim, grounds (reasons),

warrant (the underlying assumption or principle that
connects the claim and reasons), backing (additional
support for the warrant), qualifiers (words that indicate the
strength or limitations of the claim), and rebuttals
(counterarguments).

This framework helps structure and reinforce arguments

by providing a logical and persuasive structure.
 The grounds, also known as reasons or
04 Backing 01 evidence, provide support for the claim.

Qualifiers indicate the degree of confidence or

02 strength of the claim.
05 Warrant
Claim is the main argument being made. It
03 states the position of the writer.
01 Grounds 02 Qualifier
The backing provides additional support or
04 evidence for the warrant.

03 Claim The warrant connects the grounds to the claim

05 by providing the underlying reasoning.

Rebuttals address potential counterarguments

06 Rebuttal 06 or opposing viewpoints.
Fair and Balanced
Arguments
In persuasive writing, it is crucial to develop fair and
balanced arguments to present a comprehensive view of
the topic. This approach demonstrates intellectual honesty,
credibility, and respect for differing perspectives.
Developing fair arguments also increases the
persuasiveness of the overall message.
 Note
To develop fair arguments, it is necessary to
It is essential to acknowledge the strengths and
provide evidence for both the main claim(s) and
counterclaims. Each claim and counterclaim
should be supported by relevant and sufficient
evidence. This evidence can include facts,
statistics, research studies, expert opinions,
examples, or anecdotes.
Note
limitations of both the main claim(s) and
counterclaims. By doing so, the writer
demonstrates a thorough understanding of the
topic and builds credibility. Pointing out
strengths enhances the persuasiveness of the
main claim(s).
 For Example:
Suppose the topic is whether students should have part-time jobs while in high school.

In developing fair and balanced Simultaneously, acknowledging

arguments, one might present counterarguments helps
evidence in favor of students demonstrate a fair and
having part-time jobs. thoughtful approach.

improved time potential negative

management and effects on academic
financial performance
responsibility
 Let's Argue
Activity: Debate - Reading Using a Book versus Reading on a Screen

Form two teams: Team
Book and Team Screen.
You will be assigned a
specific viewpoint to
argue for throughout the
debate.
Research and prepare
your arguments,
focusing on evidence,
examples, and logical
reasoning to support
your assigned
viewpoint.
Participate in the debate
by presenting opening
statements, engaging in
rebuttals, and providing
supporting evidence.
Thank you for listening
Resource Page