What strategies does an author use to formulate an argument?
Formal terminology:
EXORDIUM – draw reader into your position; build common ground; establish tone and style; establish “credentials;” clarify why this topic and your position are important; build ethos
NARRATION – tell the story behind the argument; give necessary background information; clarify the issue; define the issue in terms favorable to your stance
PROPOSITION – state your central position carefully and clearly; perhaps set the stage for important sub-points
REFUTATION – stating the opposition’s viewpoint(s) and explaining why they are wrong
CONFIRMATION – develop and support your own position/stance; use traditional thesis/ support format (including examples, facts, statistics to support your claim); avoid logical fallacies; argue from authority, definition, analogy, cause/effect, value, purpose; use logos; rank supporting points
DIGRESSION – optional; can be used at the beginning, but better near the end; touching or entertaining anecdote; brief; build pathos or ethos
PERORATION – conclusion; review of main points in your favor; reference to position statement in intro; plea for action; end strongly, with conviction
Other possible patterns of organization:
A
*Intro
*Refute strongest opposition point
*State own case
*Confirm own position
*Refute weaker opposition point
*Concl
B
*Intro
*Own proposition as open-ended question
*State own case
*Examine and refute opposition
*Examine and confirm own position
*Concl
C
*Intro
*Offer rival proposition
*Offer own position
*Confirm own position
*Refute opposition
*Concl
In addition, here are some websites that should give you further information:
(Broken Link Removed)
and
http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/composition/argument.htm
http://www.powa.org/
and
http://www.powa.org/content/blogcategory/21/111/
http://nutsandbolts.washcoll.edu/ (Use the list at the left as the "table of contents.")
and
http://nutsandbolts.washcoll.edu/arguments.htm
reseatch
To formulate an argument, an author typically employs several strategies. Here are some key strategies:
1. Research: The author gathers relevant information and evidence on the topic through extensive research. This includes reading books, articles, and scholarly works, as well as conducting interviews and surveys.
2. Thesis statement: The author develops a clear and concise thesis statement that conveys the main argument or position on the topic. The thesis statement should be specific and debatable, providing a roadmap for the rest of the argument.
3. Logical reasoning: The author uses logical reasoning to present a coherent and persuasive argument. This involves organizing the ideas and evidence in a logical sequence, using examples, analogies, cause-and-effect relationships, and comparisons to enhance understanding and clarity.
4. Counterarguments: The author anticipates opposing viewpoints and addresses them effectively. This can be done by acknowledging the counterarguments and then refuting or undermining them with strong evidence and reasoning.
5. Appeals to emotions and values: Authors may also appeal to the readers' emotions and values to strengthen their argument. This can be done through storytelling, personal anecdotes, or highlighting the potential impact and importance of the argument on individuals or society.
6. Credible sources: Authors back up their claims with credible and reliable sources. This includes citing peer-reviewed studies, expert opinions, statistics, and other evidence that supports their argument.
7. Persuasive language: Authors choose their words carefully to create a persuasive and engaging argument. They use rhetorical devices such as metaphor, simile, imagery, and strong vocabulary to make their argument more effective and memorable.
By applying these strategies, an author can formulate a persuasive argument that informs, convinces, and engages the readers.