Argument WritingAn Introductory Guide for Middle School Students

Standards

• (8W1) Write arguments to support claims

• (8RI6) Determine author’s point of view or purpose/

Analyze response to conflicting evidence or

viewpoints

• (8RI8) Delineate, evaluate, and assess arguments for

soundness of reasons and relevance of evidence/

Recognize when irrelevant evidence is introduced

Learning Objective

• I can develop arguments to support a claim.

• I can determine a writer’s point-of-view or purpose.

• I can evaluate and assess arguments and the relevance of evidence.

An argument in writing

• IS DIFFERENT THAN ARGUING WITH A PARENT OR FRIEND

What are the Terms Used for Argument

Writing?• Argument –a statement that someone

believes is or should be true.

• Claim – what the arguer is trying to prove

• Counter-claim – expresses the opposite point of view.

• Rebuttal – to prove something is false by using arguments or evidence

What are the Characteristics of Argument Writing?

• Convinces reader claim is true

• Uses evidence—facts and data

• Acknowledges counterclaims—the other side of the argument

How do you Describe an Effective Claim?

• Takes a clear position

• Is narrow enough to be supported within essay

• Can be supported by facts or citations from a text

What are the Different Types of Claims?

• Cause and effect—a person, thing, or event caused something else to happen

• Example: Rikki Tikki Tavi’s victory over the snakes was the result of his natural abilities as a mongoose, rather than his desire to protect the people in the cottage.

What are the Different Types of Claims?

• Claims of definition or fact—argue what a definition is or if something is really a fact

• Example: In the story, “Gift of the Magi,” by O. Henry, the two characters provide an outstanding illustration what what foolish is.

What are the Different Types of Claims?

• Claims about values —argue the worth of something and if it is valued.

• While Perrault’s “Cinderella” is an interesting story, it is a second-rate story when compared to Grimm’s Cinderella version.

What are the Different Types of Claims?

• Claims about solutions or policies —argue for or against certain approaches to problems.

• Example: The Capulets have their daughter’s well-being in mind when they follow tradition and make arrangements for her to marry Paris.

How do you Address the Counterclaim?

• Refutes or proves wrong, another point

• Recognizes the other side’s points

• Lends credence (belief or acceptance) to the writer’s claims

Components of Effective Argument Writing?

• Clear and forceful claim

• Well-constructed argument

• Strong textual support with lucid (clear) explanations of text support

• Addresses counterclaims

• Strong conclusion