Everything is an Argument:

Understanding Argumentation

Steps to write an Argumentation Paper

1.Choose a Topic2.Take a stand3.Ensure you stand is debatable4.Gather and Document Evidence5.Deal with the opposition

• Begin with a broad topic or topics and begin to narrow it to a more specific topic

• At this stage, you are freewriting or brainstorming • From the start, consider the topic from other people’s viewpoints

Be open to all angles• If the evidence goes against your position, you should be willing

to change your thesis

Take a Stand•State your position in the form of a thesis at the end of your introductory paragraph.•Your introductory paragraph should also incorporate an introduction strategy. •After you have written your thesis, make sure it’s debatable. •Arguing a point most people accept is true is useless. Does it pass the “so what” factor? •A good argumentation paper presents a proposition that some would object to.

Gather EvidenceEvidence can be fact or opinion.Facts are statements that most people agree are true and that can be verified, such as statistics.

It is a fact that fewer people per year were killed in automobile accidents in the 1990s than in the 1970s.

Opinions are interpretations of facts.Note: The opinions of experts are more convincing than those of individuals who have limited knowledge of an issue.

Where to locate sources:

JCTC libraryPrint media (i.e. library catalogue)Electronic databases

Opposing Viewpoints databaseInfotracEbscoHost

Internet

Popular/Scholarly Sources

Deal with the Opposition…respectfully

Use Effective Appeals

Logos – appeal to logic with facts, data, numbers, etc.

Pathos –appeal to emotion with real-life stories/examples

Ethos – appeal to credibilitywith a paper that is error free,

Well-written, etc.

This paper…Problem/Solution EssaySee the assignment for more details