Reasoning Strategies for Argumentative Writing

Flashcards covering key definitions and reasoning strategies from the lecture notes on logic and argumentative writing.

According to the course notes, what is the definition of "logic"?

Reasoning based on thought and evidence.

In practical terms, what does logic enable a student to do?

Analyze and evaluate persuasive or argument writing for effectiveness.

Name the six widely used reasoning strategies discussed in the course.

Analogy, cause and effect, classification and division, comparison and contrast, problem and solution, and definition.

How does a writer use analogy as a reasoning strategy?

By comparing two unlike subjects, one familiar and one unfamiliar, emphasizing their similarities to explain the unfamiliar subject.

What is the relationship between analogies, similes, and metaphors?

Analogies are basically long forms of similes or metaphors.

What is the primary purpose of cause-and-effect writing?

To identify and examine the reasons (causes) for and consequences (effects) of an action, event, or idea.

Explain the difference between classification and division as reasoning strategies.

Division identifies a single subject and divides it into component parts, while classification groups various elements into larger, more comprehensive categories.

What does the comparison and contrast reasoning strategy involve?

Analyzing two or more subjects by examining their similarities (comparisons) and differences (contrasts).

What is the core structure of the problem and solution reasoning strategy?

Introducing a predicament or challenging issue (the problem) and offering information about what was done or what should be done to remedy it (the solution).

Beyond a dictionary definition, what does the reasoning strategy of definition entail?

Elaborating on the meaning of an idea, word, or expression by explaining its denotation, connotations, emotions, and implications.