AIR: Lesson - Toulmin Argument

Toulmin Argument

The Toulmin Method

There are several ways that writers and speakers structure their arguments. One of the more formal methods is toulmin argumentation, a type of structure that contains six parts: claim, grounds, warrant, backing, qualifier, and rebuttal. Each of these components performs a specific role. Let's define each part, then look at an example:

  • Claim: the statement the speaker wishes the audience to believe
  • Grounds: the basis for the claim, also known as support 
  • Warrant: the inferred reasoning that connects the grounds to the claim
  • Backing: the support for the warrant
  • Qualifier: the degree of certainty with which the speaker makes the claim
  • Rebuttal: exceptions that might be made against the claim

These six parts all work to create a sense of focus on the Main Argument. You can picture it like this:

The Toulmin Method. Claim, grounds, warrant, backing, qualifier and rebuttal point to main argument.

 

An Example of the Toulmin Method

Pay attention to how each part of the Toulmin Method helps to present the main argument in the example below. Can you infer the main argument just from the information provided?

  • Claim:
    • The driving age in Georgia should be changed from 16 to 18.
  • Grounds:
    • For drivers under 24, most accidents are caused by 16 and 17 year old drivers.
  • Warrant:
    • Younger drivers aren’t as experienced or skilled on the road.
  • Backing:
    • Studies have shown that car accidents decrease as age increases. This holds true for the past six years.
  • Qualifier:
    • Sixty percent of 16 and 17 year old drivers are not as skilled as 18 year old drivers based on a driver’s knowledge test.
  • Rebuttal:
    • Some argue that raising the driving age would lead to more accidents at 18 because there would be more inexperienced drivers.

 The Goal of the Toulmin Method

The Toulmin method of argumentation allows the speaker to clearly lay out and prepare their argument, but it also helps them establish ethos by acknowledging their opposition’s views as well in the rebuttal. Furthermore, the qualifier helps the speaker avoid absolute certainty in their main claim, which fosters healthy debate and opens doors to further understanding of the issue.

Practice Activity

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