Need More Pieces to Make a Strong Argument

Persuasive writing:

What are the factors that play into making decisions that we make both big and small?

There is not usually just one factor that effect the decisions.

Need more pieces to make a strong argument

Helpful text: Four by Four: Practical Methods for Writing Persuasively

Basics of Argument: Equal Arguments: This is the mot simplistic pattern. Use it when each piece of evidence is equally compelling to the others. This pattern does not acknowledge another point of view. Example text- Pink “It’s Here to Stay: The Bad, the Ugly and Some Good” Analyze the writer’s structure and how does this text fit the pattern of Equal Arguments- Green. This would FAIL STARR. Strawman Use this pattern when you want to directly address an obvious objection to your viewpoint. State the opposing view. Present evidence against the opposing view. Strawman Plus This pattern combines Strawman and Equal Arguments. State the opposing argument and give evidence against it. Present evidence for your viewpoint. Example text- Pink “Everyone Loves a Good Story” Analysis –Green ***Concession*** Use this pattern when the evidence against your viewpoint cannot be disproven. Acknowledge the opposing argument. (Ignoring it would weaken your own argument and make it appear that you haven’t thought through the topic.) Present evidence that your thesis is a better idea than the opposing one. Example text –Pink “Watching TV, and Looking Inward.” Analysis- Green. Another example text- “Cash Incentives Motivate Workers.” Nestorian Order Use this pattern when you have several pieces of evidence that are not all equally compelling. Use this pattern when you have several pieces of evidence, but you know more about some pieces of evidence than others. Present the 2nd most compelling argument first. End with the most compelling evidence; NOT for STAAR.

Writing a Thesis: Be concise, be specific, write a statement- not a question, use strong verbs. DO NOT Back yourself into a corner (don’t write things you cannot prove). Use divisive or inflammatory language. Contradict in a later statement. The constant posting of status through social media is having a negative effect on romance due to the elevated pressure not only to gain the approval of the loved one, but all of their “friends” on Facebook.

Beware of Logical Fallacies: -illogical or circular reasoning -weaken the argument -endanger the writer’s credibility