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
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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)