Summary of the Progression

Standard W.9-10.1b significantly increases the expectations of the previous grade.  No longer are students asked to simply support their claim or demonstrate an understanding of the topic or text, by the end of tenth grade students now must develop claims and counterclaims fairly. The skilled student will point out the strengths and weaknesses in both sides of an argument and further display proficiency by constructing his/her argument in a way that matches the knowledge level and concerns of the audience.  

Look For's &/or Listen For's

• Is/are the claim(s) well developed? (not just supported, but strategically developed)
• Is/are the counterclaim(s) well developed? (not just supported, but strategically developed)
• Are all claims developed fairly? (utilizing objective text-based evidence)
• Are the strengths and weaknesses of both sides included?
• Do the claims and content match the knowledge level of the audience?
• Are the concerns of the audience anticipated and addressed?

Teaching & Learning Strategies (The Toulmin Method)

The Toulmin Method is designed to assist a writer in developing a written or spoken argument. This strategy can be used to develop claims within a written essay as well as smaller bodies of text. 

The Components:

Claim: the argument being made

Data: evidence supporting the claim

Warrant (bridge): how the data supports the claim

Backing (foundation): additional evidence supporting the warrant

Counterclaim: disagrees with original claim

Rebuttal: evidence that negates the counterclaim

Including a well thought out warrant or bridge is essential to developing a solid claim. In additon, the proficient writer includes opposing views as counterclaims within an argument. It is important to help the audience see the connections between the evidence in support of the claim as well as the evidence in rebuttal of counterclaims and anticipated audience concerns. Click here to view an example of how to structure an argument based on the Toumin Method. 

Graphic Organizer for Toulmin Method:

retreived from: http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/588/03/