AIW: Overview
Argument in Writing
Introduction
The Argument in Writing module centers on the elements that make up argumentation and how to use those elements in your own compositions. Throughout this module, you will focus on the elements of effective argument as you learn about crafting thesis statements, choosing logical and effective supporting evidence, and organizing an argument to make it more convincing. In the first module you studied writing techniques – now it’s time to apply those techniques to writing an argument!
Module Objectives
- Identify the elements of effective argumentative writing
- Compose strong thesis statements
- Use convincing evidence to support a claim
- Organize an argument in a way that is both clear and convincing
Module Lessons Preview
Elements of Argument – a lesson on the components of an argument in writing
Thesis Statements – a lesson on the qualities of an effective thesis statement and how to create and revise these main claims
Supporting Evidence – a lesson on the kinds of evidence that you can use to support a claim; using classical appeals
Organizing Your Argument – a lesson on how to use transitions and emphasis to organize the arguments that you compose
The Argument Essay Rubric - a lesson explaining how an argumentative essay will be assessed
Key Terms
- Argument: the process by which a claim is supported by reasoning and evidence
- Assertion: a statement that one makes
- Thesis Statement: the main assertion that must be defended in an argument
- Evidence: information used to persuade an audience of an author’s position
- Logos: an appeal to someone’s reason and logic
- Pathos: an appeal to someone’s emotion
- Ethos: an appeal based on credibility and trustworthiness or a moral sense of right or wrong
- Persuasion: writing that tends to convince someone of a belief or an opinion
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