Common Course Cartridge
Argument: Build It With Care
Overview
Argument is a familiar concept to most people; however, to win an argument, or at least, to argue points effectively is not so easy. In this seminar, you will learn the basic concepts surrounding argument and, in turn, develop an argument utilizing components that set you up for success. Remember, argument does not mean yelling at someone because you think you’re right; argument refers to logical thinking with clear points, building toward a specific outcome.
Standards
CC.1.2.9-10.H: Delineate and evaluate the argument and specific claims in a text, assessing the validity of reasoning and relevance of evidence.
CC.1.4.9-10.C: Develop and analyze the topic with relevant, well-chosen, and sufficient facts, extended definitions, concrete details, quotations, or other information and examples appropriate to the audience’s knowledge of the topic; include graphics and multimedia when useful to aiding comprehension.
CC.1.4.9-10.G: Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics.
Engage
Introductory warm-up activity.
Watch one of these videos about composing a logical argument. Focus on the structure of argument as you listen to the advice. As you watch the video, make a T-chart (on paper or electronically) that includes points of advice that are familiar to you already and points that are new. Don’t skip the T-chart; that’s an important step to help you and others understand what you do and don’t already know.
Explore
Read or watch the resources to learn about this concept, then do the practice activity.
| Read | Watch | Do |
Read over these graphic organizer examples to see how most effective arguments are built. Sometimes it’s easier to see the structure of an essay in “chunks” as these organizers show: Read this advice from the University of Iowa (considered one of the best writing schools in the country). Though the advice focuses on writing strong thesis statements, it is sound advice in developing the structure of your argument. Read more advice about effective arguments, this time from University of North Carolina. You should recognize many of the components from your earlier tasks. | Use this (or another note-taking method of your choice) to jot down ideas, important concepts, and questions as you use the resources to learn more about argument: Watch this video from Khan Academy to get helpful tips on writing a good argument. Remember to use the note-taking method provided (or a different one of your choice): Here is another video with some sound advice on developing effective arguments. Use your graphic organizer to take notes and jot down further questions if you have them. | Review this Quizlet to refresh your knowledge on the necessary vocabulary for understanding the structure of an argument. Create your own Top 10 List (or even Top 6 or Top 8) that contains the important advice you’ve gained about arguments. You may create an electronic list or hardcopy. Refer to your notes to help you create the list. Arrange your list so that number one is the most important to you. |
Evaluate
Now it is time to self-check how much you have learned about the this topic. If you do not know as much as you thought, go back to the “Explore” section of this seminar and reread, rewatch, or redo the activities listed. See your facilitator if you have questions.
Click here to take the quiz online. You do not have to log into the quiz site in order to take this quiz. If a window pops up asking you to sign up for the quiz site, just close the sign-up window and start your quiz.