Classical Arguments

Eng 102BC

What is the classical structure of an

argument?

Introduction

Attention grabber

Memorable scene, illustrative story, startling statistic

Explanation of issue and needed background

Thesis

What is the classical structure of an

argument?

Presentation of writer’s position

Main body of essay

Presents & supports each reason in turn

Each reason is tied to a value/belief held by the

audience

What is the classical structure of an

argument?

Summary of opposing views

Response to opposing views

Refutes opposing views

Shows weaknesses in opposing views

Concedes to some strengths

What is the classical structure of an

argument?

Conclusion

Summarizes argument

Leaves strong last impression

Calls for action or relates topic to larger context

of issues

What are the three kinds of

persuasive appeals?

Logos

Ethos

Pathos

Define logos

Quality of message

Logic of argument

Guiding Questions:

How can I make the argument internally consistent

and logical?

How can I find the best reasons and support them

with the best evidence?

Define Ethos

Credibility of writer

Conveyed through writer’s investment in claim,

fairness to alternative views, author’s tone, style,

attention to grammar and mechanics

Guiding Questions:

How can I present myself effectively?

How can I enhance my credibility and

trustworthiness?

Define Pathos

Values and beliefs of intended audience

Often associated with emotional appeal

Imaginative sympathies

Guiding Questions:

How can I make the reader open to my message?

How can I best appeal to my reader’s values and

interests?

How can I engage my reader emotionally and

imaginatively?

How to Identify an information

question

Examine purpose in relationship to audience

Teacher to learner

Hope audience gains new information, knowledge, or understanding

How does a diesel engine work?

Why is a diesel engine more fuel efficient than a gasoline engine?

What is the most cost-effective way to produce diesel fuel from crude oil?

How to Identify an Issue question

Examine purpose in relationship to audience

Advocate to decision maker or jury

Audience must make up its mind on something and

must weigh different points of view

Should the present highway tax on diesel fuel be

increased?

What factors do rational arguments

require?

1. reasonable participants who operate within the

conventions of reasonable behavior

2. potentially sharable assumptions that can serve

as a starting place or foundation for argument

If either factor is missing, the result is a pseudo

argument.

How is a pseudo-argument created?

No possibility for listening, learning, growth, or

change by audience

Lack of shared assumptions or common ground

Bible interpretations

Personal opinions

Opera is boring

Epic Rap Battles of History

How is this clip an example of a classical

argument?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l3w2MTXBeb

g

Epic Rap Battles of History

How is this clip an example of a classical argument?

What is the introduction? How is background

information provided? What is the thesis?

What arguments are made by Shakespeare?

What does Seuss say to refute his opponent?

How does Shakespeare respond to the opposing

views?

What is the conclusion? What is the lasting impression?

What is the call for action or how is the topic related

to a larger context of issues?

Shakespeare Vs. Seuss Discussion

1. Which character had the best argument? Who do

you think won?

2. What were some of the arguments made by the

winner?

3. How did the winner refute his opponent’s

arguments?

4. What were some of the opponent’s key arguments?

Please view three more of your choice

Easter Bunny vs. Genghis Khan

Michael Jackson vs. Elvis Presley

Batman vs. Sherlock Holmes

Steve Jobs vs. Bill Gates

Steven Hawking vs. Einstein

Mr. Rogers vs. Mr. T

Moses vs. Santa

Mario Bros. vs. Wright Bros.

Wednesday 4/30 Synthesis essays

Monday 5/5 Grammar Final

Wednesday 5/7 Writing final (9AM class meets 8-

10AM)

(11AM class meets 10:30AM – 12:30PM)