figurative language that makes comparisons in unexpected ways. The purpose is to show similarities in process or in structure.
Analogy
a short narrative that relates an interesting or amusing incident, usually to make a larger point
Anecdote
is a viewpoint that opposes
an author’s thesis or claim.
For an argument to be
persuasive, the author must
address counter argument.
Counterargument
a term or phrase that has strong emotional overtones and that is meant to evoke strong reactions (positive or negative) beyond the specific meaning to sway opinions
Loaded Language
a technique that an author or speaker uses to influence or persuade an audience
Rhetorical Device
a position on a topic or issue developed through logic, evidence and appeals
Argument
a text in which the writer develops and defends a position or debates a topic using logic and persuasion
Argumentative Text
the quality of having reliable
and trustworthy characteristics
which may be influenced by an
author having expertise on a
topic, using unbiased and
accurate reasoning, evidence,
and sources to support ideas,
and providing current and
up-to-date information
Credibility
an incorrect or
problematic argument
that is not based on
sound reasoning
Logical Fallacy
the author’s particular
attitude, either stated
or implied in writing
Tone
the reason an author writes about a particular topic (e.g., to persuade, to entertain, to inform, to explain, to analyze, to describe); the reason an author includes particular details, features, or devices in a work
Author's Purpose
a persuasive technique
used in media messages
that appeals to the
“everyone is doing it”
mentality
Bandwagon Appeals
specific details or
facts that support
an inference or idea
Evidence
the pattern an author constructs as he or she organizes his or her ideas and provides supporting details.
Ex: cause & effect, problem & solution, description, and order of importance, etc.
Organization Patterns
is a viewpoint that opposes
an author’s thesis or claim.
For an argument to be
persuasive, the author must
address counter argument.
Counterargument
a particular inclination, feeling, or opinion about a subject that is often preconceived or unreasoned
Bias
a logical fallacy in which
an assumption is made in
a definition or argument
that includes the very point
that one is trying to prove
(e.g., I love Mr. Johnson’s
class because I’m always
happy in there).
Circular logic/reasoning
a logically incorrect argument, or fallacy, that contains a conclusion that is not supported by data, has limited information, and/or includes personal opinion or bias
Faulty Reasoning
to attempt to disprove, contradict, or argue against an opposing viewpoint
Rebuttal
a particular inclination, feeling, or opinion about a subject that is often preconceived or unreasoned
Bias
an assertion, position,
or arguable thesis
about a topic or issue
Claim
a technique used in argumentation wherein a writer/speaker acknowledges a point made by the opposition in order to establish understanding of the issue from various angles and enhance credibility
Concession
two or more words, phrases, or ideas placed
close together in order to compare or contrast
them for effect
Juxtaposition
a credible or believable source. Some questions to evaluate credibility might be: Is the author a respected authority on the subject? Does the author support opinions with strong argumentation and reasoning? How current is the information?
Reliable source
a text in which the writer develops and defends a position or debates a topic using logic and persuasion
Argumentative Text