How to Write Reasonable Arguments

Summary

This video lesson focuses on the art of defending a stand on an issue through well-reasoned arguments. It emphasizes the importance of identifying controversial topics, conducting thorough research, and understanding your audience. Key types of appeals—logical, emotional, and ethical—are discussed to enhance persuasion. The lesson provides a clear structure for organizing arguments, including outlining an introduction, supporting points, and counterarguments. By the end, viewers are equipped with the tools to craft a compelling, evidence-based argument that resonates with their audience.

Takeaways

• 😀 An argument in academic writing consists of a claim and supporting evidence.
• 😀 It's crucial to research and understand both sides of an issue before taking a stand.
• 😀 Identifying two distinct positions on an issue helps frame the argument effectively.
• 😀 Using a variety of evidence types, such as surveys and academic journals, strengthens arguments.
• 😀 Logical appeals rely on facts and statistics to persuade the audience.
• 😀 Emotional appeals engage the audience's feelings and values, making the argument more relatable.
• 😀 Ethical appeals establish credibility by leveraging the authority of the speaker.
• 😀 Organizing arguments clearly with a strong thesis is essential for effective communication.
• 😀 Addressing counterarguments demonstrates a thorough understanding of the topic and strengthens your position.
• 😀 The conclusion should summarize the main points and reinforce the significance of the argument.

Q & A

What is the main objective of the lesson?

The main objective is to teach students how to defend a stance on an issue by presenting well-reasoned arguments supported by evidence.

What are the two important parts of an argument?

An argument consists of a claim or statement summarizing the main idea, and reasons or evidence supporting that claim.

How can reflective writing benefit students?

Reflective writing helps students think more deeply about course concepts, enabling them to analyze ideas through discussion and debate.

What types of appeals can be used in arguments?

Arguments can use logical appeals (facts and statistics), emotional appeals (audience feelings), and ethical appeals (credibility of the speaker).

What is the first step in preparing to defend a stance?

The first step is to conduct research on the subject matter to ensure your position is well-supported.

What should the introduction of an argumentative paper include?

The introduction should present the topic, provide background information, and state the thesis, which indicates the writer's position.

How should counterarguments be addressed in an argumentative paper?

Counterarguments should be acknowledged and responded to, either by conceding valid points or rejecting them while explaining why your argument is stronger.

What is an effective way to hook the reader's interest in the introduction?

An effective hook can be a relevant quote, statistic, or a provocative question that highlights the importance of the topic.

What role does citing sources play in academic arguments?

Citing sources is crucial for lending credibility to your arguments and acknowledging the original authors of the evidence used.

Can emotional appeals be effective in academic writing?

Yes, emotional appeals can effectively persuade an audience by connecting with their values and feelings, as long as they are used appropriately.