Rhetoric and Argument Essays
ENG122: Composition II
An Introduction to Argument
English 122: Composition II
An Introduction to Argument
Argument and Rhetoric
An argument can take many forms. It is, at its root, a method for communicating a singular position with evidence, logic, and persuasion. There are essential elements to all valid arguments, though they may take different forms.
1. Claim
2. Evidence
3. Counterargument
4. Rebuttal
A successful argument depends upon the delicate balance between these elements. Imagine a teeter–totter at the playground. The claim is the basis of the argument, much like the base of the teeter–totter. A big opposing viewpoint, called the counterargument, is constantly pushing down on one side or the other. Balance can only be...show more content...
Section One: Introduction and Thesis–Your introduction should describe the rhetorical situation and give a clear forecast of the material you will cover in your essay. Your thesis statement should make a clear, limited, descriptive assertion and explain why your stance matters. Example: Failure to pass the recent gun law is a bad move for public safety because inexperienced, mentally ill, and unethical people will continue to have access to firearms.
Section Two: Present the position that you most agree with. Then, give ample evidence to support why you hold this view. (Do not use first–person. Use third–person narrative).
Section Three: Present the position that you most disagree with. Then, validate the perspective with a circumstance or situation in which that viewpoint could or might be correct.
Section Four: While remaining non–offensive in language and style, provide a rebuttal of the opposition's stance by pointing out its fallacies or lack of logos and ethos.
Section Five: Conclusion–Provide a sound but brief explanation of your argument and further direction for your reader.
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ENG122: Composition II
An Introduction to Argument
Consensual (Rogerian) Argument
The consensual or Rogerian method is based on the