Anatomy of Arguments
The central point or main position that a writer is trying to prove in an argumentative essay.
What is Claim?
The rhetorical appeal that uses logic, facts, numbers, and hard data to convince the reader.
What is logos?
Quotes or paraphrased facts taken directly from the text to support a claim.
What is textual evidence?
Words like "however," "on the other hand," and "conversely" signal this type of relationship between ideas.
What is contrast?
The author's primary goal when writing an argumentative text.
What is persuade?
Facts, statistics, expert quotes, or examples used to back up a claim.
What is evidence?
The rhetorical appeal that targets the reader's emotions, such as fear, sympathy, or excitement.
What is pathos?
Giving credit to the original source or author within your writing
What is citation?
Phrases such as "According to the author..." or "The research demonstrates..." used to introduce evidence.
What are signal phrases
A leaning or prejudice in favor of or against one side of an issue, often in an unfair way.
What is bias?
The explanation that connects the evidence back to the claim, showing why the evidence proves the point.
What is reasoning?
The rhetorical appeal that establishes the author's credibility, trustworthiness, or moral character.
What is ethos?
Evidence that is directly connected and meaningful to the claim being argued
What is relevant evidence?
Words like "therefore," "consequently," and "as a result" signal this relationship.
What is cause and effect?
An author's unique perspective, attitude, or stance on a topic influenced by their background or beliefs.
What is point of view?
The opposing viewpoint that challenges the writer's main argument.
What is counterclaim?
"9 out of 10 dentists recommend this toothpaste" is primarily an example of this appeal.
What is ethos?
Having enough evidence to fully prove a claim, rather than just one weak example
What is sufficient evidence?
Words like "furthermore," "in addition," and "moreover" are used to do this to an argument.
What is add supporting details?
Words loaded with strong positive or negative emotional associations meant to influence the reader
What is loaded language?
The response to a counterclaim that explains why the opposing view is weak or incorrect.
What is a rebuttal?
"If we don't adopt this stray dog today, he will be left in the cold rain all night" uses this appeal
What is pathos?
Information that sounds interesting or persuasive but has nothing to do with the claim being made.
What is irrelevant evidence?
The specific transition word used when moving from acknowledging a counterclaim back to your main argument.
What is nevertheless?
A source that presents facts objectively without taking a personal side or showing favoritism.
What is unbiased?