Argument Basics
This is a statement or position that a writer wants to prove.
What is a claim?
This is the art of communicating to persuade, inform, or entertain an audience.
What is rhetoric?
This refers to a writer’s choice of words and phrases.
What is diction?
This logical fallacy attacks the person instead of the argument.
What is ad hominem?
This fallacy misrepresents or oversimplifies someone’s argument to make it easier to attack.
What is a straw man?
This is the process of thinking logically to reach a conclusion.
What is reasoning?
These are the three main ways speakers persuade using credibility, logic, or emotion.
What are rhetorical appeals?
This is the arrangement of words and phrases in a sentence.
What is syntax?
“Everyone has this phone, so it must be the best one.” This is an example of this fallacy.
What is ad populum (bandwagon)?
This fallacy assumes that because two things are alike in one way, they are alike in another way.
What is a false analogy?
This is a reason or set of reasons given to persuade someone that something is true or right.
What is an argument?
This appeal persuades an audience by using facts, statistics, and logical reasoning.
What is logos?
Repeating the phrase “We can do better” in a speech is an example of this.
What is a rhetorical device?
“I met one rude student there, so everyone there must be rude.” This is an example of this fallacy.
What is hasty generalization?
“Homework is important because it is important.” This is an example of this fallacy.
What is circular reasoning?
This is the opposing viewpoint to the main claim in an argument.
What is a counterclaim?
This appeal convinces an audience by establishing trust or credibility.
What is ethos?
Saying “He’s a real Einstein” is an example of this type of reference.
What is an allusion?
This fallacy distracts from the main issue by bringing up something unrelated.
What is a red herring?
This fallacy occurs when a conclusion does not logically follow the statement before it.
What is a non sequitur?
This strengthens a claim by adding specific details, examples, or explanations.
What is elaboration?
A sad animal shelter commercial that makes viewers feel sympathy is an example of this appeal.
What is pathos?
Saying “Great job!” after someone spills their drink is an example of this.
What is verbal irony?
“If we allow phones in class, students will stop learning completely.” This is an example of this fallacy.
What is a slippery slope?
A speaker says, “Why worry about homework when school dances are more fun?” during a debate about grading policies. This fallacy is being used.
What is a red herring?