2: Unit Two- Persuasive Argument — Read

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In this unit, we will write persuasive argument essays that are supported by research. Students may use the same topic and sources that they used for their exploratory research essay in Unit One; however, these sources will support an entirely different kind of essay. We will identify a problem that affects us or our community, define our advocacy role, and propose a specific, concrete solution. We will use generative artificial intelligence to create a visual argument tailored to our audience and purpose and to assist with counterarguments and rebuttals. In this unit, we will also discuss critical thinking errors and logical fallacies, which are often used to make arguments that are not effective.

2.1: What Is an Academic Argument?
This page outlines academic arguments, highlighting their distinction from casual disagreements. It introduces three methods for constructing arguments: Aristotelian, Toulmin, and Rogerian, suited for various audiences. The page also details an assignment to write a 6-8 page persuasive problem/solution essay on a researched topic, offering guidelines on research, structure, and drafting, as well as tips for success and requirements like proper sourcing and the avoidance of logical fallacies.
2.2: What Is Aristotelian Argument?
This page discusses the Aristotelian argument style, which aims to persuade through ethos, pathos, and logos. It details the structure of an Aristotelian essay, including issue introduction, case presentation, opposition address, proof provision, and conclusion with a call to action. The page also encourages critical audience analysis and includes an exercise for identifying supporting examples. Overall, it emphasizes strategic persuasion in argumentative writing.
2.3: What is Toulmin Argument?
This page discusses Stephen Toulmin, a British philosopher recognized for his work on moral reasoning and the Toulmin Model of Argumentation. The model comprises six components—Claim, Grounds, Warrant, Backing, Qualifier, and Rebuttal—that interconnect to structure and assess arguments. The Claim presents a position, Grounds supply evidence, and the Warrant relates the two.
2.4: What Is Rogerian Argument?
This page discusses the Rogerian argument, which emphasizes achieving compromise through respectful dialogue rather than adversarial debate. It begins with a non-confrontational introduction, presents opposing views and the writer's perspective, highlights shared values in a "Bridge" section, and concludes with a compromise. This model fosters empathetic listening and seeks collaborative resolutions to contentious issues.
2.5: What Type of Argument Should I Use?
This page describes an interactive exercise from Excelsior’s Online Writing Lab that aids users in selecting effective arguments for their writing. Participants analyze scenarios and choose rhetorical styles, receiving feedback on their choices, which promotes a deeper understanding of argumentation techniques.
2.6: How Do I Write a Proposal Argument?
This page outlines how to effectively construct proposal arguments by identifying a problem and suggesting solutions in a structured manner. It emphasizes defining the problem, creating urgency, and demonstrating feasibility. Key components include background information, solution description, implementation methods, and benefits. Addressing counterarguments and alternative solutions boosts credibility, while causal arguments highlight potential positive outcomes.
2.7: How Do I Choose the Right Audience for My Argument?
This page emphasizes the significance of audience awareness in writing, challenging the notion that writing is a solitary endeavor. It asserts that grasping the audience’s knowledge, feelings, and cultural contexts can improve both content and style. Writers are urged to customize arguments and avoid biases, and to make a strong first impression to effectively engage their audience. The text encourages a continual consideration of the audience's perspective during the writing process.
2.8: The Ethics and Importance of Arguing Across Moral Tribes
This page underscores the value of healthy debate for collaboration and innovation, exemplified by successful experiments and historical advancements in human rights. It cautions against simplistic "Manichaean thinking" that damages dialogue and encourages assuming good faith, active listening, and patience. Examples of individuals who transformed their extremist views through civil discourse emphasize the importance of respectful engagement.
2.9: How Do I Avoid Logical Fallacies?
This page explains logical fallacies, which weaken arguments and can mislead intentionally or unintentionally. Key examples include personal attacks and appeals to popularity, emphasizing the need for critical evaluation of reasoning. It highlights the circumstantial attack fallacy, specifically the "tu quoque" argument, and "poisoning the well," which undermines an opponent's credibility. An exercise encourages assessing the relevance of personal references in arguments.
2.10: How Do I Organize My Persuasive Argument Essay?
This page provides a comprehensive overview of writing persuasive essays, focusing on essential elements such as a strong introduction that leads to a thesis addressing emerging issues. Techniques like PEAS and MEAL aid in developing arguments and responding to counterarguments, enhancing the essay's credibility. It also highlights the importance of effective conclusions that summarize key points and demonstrate significance.
2.11: How Do I Use Metadiscourse to Show I'm Human?
This page covers metadiscourse, highlighting its role in framing ideas and guiding readers while conveying a writer's voice. It warns against overuse, which can make writing dull, and defines metadiscourse's importance in communication. The page discusses the careful use of first-person pronouns in academic writing for better engagement and encourages writers to cultivate their unique style through effective metadiscourse.
2.12: How Can I Use AI to Edit and Revise my Persuasive Argument?
This page outlines how to use generative AI tools effectively in revising and editing persuasive arguments through five key stages: unity, support, coherence, style, and grammar. It provides specific prompts for AI feedback, notes the advantages of improving underdeveloped sections, and stresses the importance of preserving one's unique voice. The page encourages the use of grammar check tools and documentation of AI interactions, emphasizing that a human touch is essential in persuasive writing.

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