supporting evidence
Structural Components
Propaganda Techniques
Claim
Structural Patterns
100

numerical data

statistical inference

100

The concluding part of an argumentative text that reinforces the writer’s position.

conclusion

100

A technique that highlights favorable information while concealing unfavorable facts or disadvantages.

card stacking

100

A claim that expresses a judgment about what is good, bad, better, worse, or desirable.

value

100

A text organization that explains the reasons an event happens and the results that follow.

cause-effect

200

facts and verifiable information

factual knowledge

200

The component that presents the opposing viewpoint to the writer’s main position.

counterclaim

200

A technique that repeats a message excessively to make it familiar and memorable.

ad nauseum

200

The type of claim that answers whether something is true, exists, or has occurred.

fact

200

A pattern that organizes information by identifying a difficulty and explaining its consequences before presenting a possible remedy.

problem-solution

300

graphs, charts, and patterns

statistical inference

300

The central position or stand that a writer wants to establish in an argumentative text.

claim

300

A technique that labels a person or an idea negatively.

name calling

300

A claim that argues that a particular action, rule, or policy should or should not be implemented.

policy

300

A pattern that arranges events, processes, or instructions according to their order in time.

logical sequence

400

experts and credible sources

informed opinion

400

The component that responds to an opposing viewpoint by explaining why it is weak or incorrect.

rebuttal

400

A technique that uses a respected or admired person’s endorsement to influence the audience’s opinion.

testimonial

400

The type of claim that recommends a change in behavior, practice, regulation.

policy

400

A pattern that presents a central idea followed by details that explain, describe, or support it.

logical sequence

500

first-hand experiences

personal testimony

500

The statements that explain why the writer’s central position should be accepted.

reason

500

A technique that encourages acceptance by suggesting that joining the majority is the best way to avoid being left out.

bandwagon

500

The type of claim that depends on standards, beliefs, or criteria used to evaluate quality or worth.

value

500

A pattern that explains how one event or condition produces another event or outcome.

cause-effect