Glossary
Argumentation
The process of developing and presenting a reasoned case for a particular claim or position, typically supported by evidence and logical reasoning.
Example:
The debate club focused on argumentation skills, teaching members how to construct compelling cases and effectively refute opposing viewpoints.
Cite Your Sources
The practice of formally acknowledging where information, ideas, or direct quotations were obtained, typically using a specific format like MLA, to avoid plagiarism and give credit.
Example:
When incorporating a direct quote from a novel, it's essential to cite your sources by including the author's last name and page number in parentheses.
Context (of Evidence)
The background information or surrounding circumstances necessary for the reader to understand the relevance and significance of the evidence presented.
Example:
When discussing a scientific study, providing the context of the research—who conducted it, when, and why—helps the reader grasp its credibility and implications.
Counterarguments
Opposing viewpoints or objections that an author anticipates and addresses in their own argument to demonstrate a thorough understanding of the issue and strengthen their position.
Example:
While arguing for stricter gun control, a writer might acknowledge the counterargument that such laws infringe on Second Amendment rights, then refute it with evidence of public safety benefits.
Declarative Tone
A confident, assertive, and direct manner of speaking or writing that conveys conviction and leaves little room for doubt.
Example:
The activist's speech adopted a declarative tone, stating unequivocally that 'environmental protection is not an option, but a necessity.'
Explain the Connection (to Evidence)
The crucial step of articulating how the presented evidence directly supports or proves the writer's specific claim or argument.
Example:
After citing a statistic about declining bee populations, a writer must explain the connection by detailing how this data illustrates the broader environmental crisis.
Logical Connections
The clear and rational links established between claims, evidence, and reasoning, ensuring that the argument progresses coherently and persuasively.
Example:
An essay demonstrates strong logical connections when it moves from a general statement about economic inequality to specific data on wealth distribution, then explains how that data proves the initial point.
Logical Reasoning
The process of using sound principles of logic to draw conclusions from premises or to connect evidence to claims in a rational and defensible way.
Example:
By presenting a series of 'if-then' statements and supporting each with data, the economist used logical reasoning to predict the market's future trends.
Main Argument
The central claim or thesis that an author is trying to prove or persuade the audience to accept throughout their writing.
Example:
In an essay about the benefits of renewable energy, the main argument might be that governments should invest heavily in solar and wind power to combat climate change.
Rhetorical Analysis
The examination of how authors use various rhetorical strategies and appeals (like ethos, pathos, logos) to achieve a particular purpose or effect on their audience.
Example:
A rhetorical analysis of a political speech might focus on how the speaker uses emotional appeals and vivid imagery to rally support for their cause.
Rhetorical Strategies
Techniques or choices an author makes in their writing to achieve a specific purpose, persuade an audience, or create a particular effect.
Example:
The author employed several rhetorical strategies, including vivid metaphors and direct address, to engage the reader emotionally in the plight of refugees.
Seamless Evidence Integration
The art of weaving evidence smoothly into an argument so it feels like a natural, indispensable part of the writer's own ideas, rather than an abrupt insertion.
Example:
Instead of just dropping a statistic, a strong essay uses seamless evidence integration to explain how the data on rising sea levels directly supports the urgent need for climate action.
Supporting Evidence
Facts, statistics, examples, expert opinions, or anecdotes used to substantiate and strengthen the main argument or claims made in a text.
Example:
To support the claim that exercise improves mental health, a writer might use supporting evidence such as studies on endorphin release or testimonials from athletes.
Synthesis
The process of combining information and ideas from multiple sources to create a new, coherent understanding or to support a new argument.
Example:
For a research paper, a student performed a synthesis of articles from different scientific journals to build a comprehensive argument about the causes of climate change.
TEL (Transition, Evidence, Link)
A mnemonic device representing the three key steps for effectively integrating evidence: using a transition, presenting the evidence, and linking it back to the main argument.
Example:
When revising her essay, Sarah remembered the TEL strategy, ensuring she didn't just drop quotes but also explained their relevance to her thesis.
Transition Phrases
Words or phrases used to signal to the reader that evidence is about to be presented, ensuring a smooth flow between ideas and supporting details.
Example:
To introduce a quote from a historical document, a student might use transition phrases like 'According to,' 'As noted by,' or 'For instance,' to prepare the reader.