Tracing an Argument Terms and Definitions
What is an argument?
When a writer or speaker expresses an opinion about a topic and defends that opinion.
Which element of an argument is the following example?
“School uniforms should be required in middle school.”
Argument
What does ethos mean?
Trust and credibility
“Students who complete homework score an average of 10% higher on tests.”
Logos
What are claims?
Statements that contain the main ideas that support the argument.
“School uniforms should be required because they reduce bullying and help students focus on learning.”
What does logos mean?
Logic and reasoning
“Imagine walking into school worried you’ll be judged for what you’re wearing.”
Pathos
What is reasoning?
A combination of statement, questions, and rhetorical appeals that attempt to explain why the audience should consider evidence that is presented and accept the claim.
“While it’s true that school is long, homework provides important extra practice that improves test scores.”
Rebuttal
What does pathos mean?
Using emotion and feeling
“As a teacher with 15 years of classroom experience, I have seen how uniforms reduce distractions.”
Ethos
What is a counterclaim?
The opposite side of your argument.
“According to a 2022 study, schools with uniforms reported 30% fewer discipline referrals.”
What are rhetorical appeals?
Tools writers use to convince you by using logic (logos) feelings (pathos) and ethos (credibility)
“No student should feel overwhelmed and exhausted every single weekend.”
Pathos
Which rhetorical appeal is present in this statement?
Students should volunteer at animal shelters because there are puppies that are in need of love and affection. 98% of animals are happier with consistent visitation in the shelter.
Pathos and logos.
What is a rebuttal?
Evidence based response to the counterclaim intended to prove an opponent's argument wrong, flawed, or weak.
“This shows that uniforms reduce discipline problems, which creates a better learning environment.”
Reasoning
1) “Some argue that uniforms are too expensive for families.”
2) “This matters because fewer distractions lead to better academic performance.”
3) “Research from the National Education Association shows improved attendance rates.”
4) “However, schools can provide financial assistance for families in need.”
5) “School uniforms should be mandatory.”
5, 3, 2, 1, 4
“The school handbook states that phones are currently prohibited during instructional time.”
Logos
Which rhetorical appeals are present in this sentence?
According to the National Board of Education, children learn to write essays 85% better on paper than on chromebooks.
Ethos and Logos