y926 argument analysis

Topic

The broad subject being discussed. For example: social media.

Issue

The specific point of debate about the topic. An issue can often be framed using whether or should. For example: whether teenagers should face restrictions on their use of social media.

Contention

The writer’s overall position on the issue — what they ultimately want the audience to accept.

Argument

A key reason the writer gives to support their contention. A text will usually contain several supporting arguments.

Audience

The people the writer is specifically trying to reach, influence or persuade.

Purpose

What the writer wants their audience to think, feel or do as a result of the text.

Tone

The writer’s attitude or emotion towards the issue, conveyed through their language choices.

Stakeholder

A person or group who is affected by, involved in or has an interest in the issue. A stakeholder is not necessarily the target audience.

Values

Beliefs or principles that people consider important, such as fairness, safety, freedom, family, responsibility or community. Writers may appeal to values they believe their audience shares.

Emotive language

Words chosen to provoke an emotional response;May evoke sympathy, concern, anger, fear or hope

Inclusive language

Words such as we, us and our;May create connection, shared responsibility or solidarity

Exclusive language

Words such as they and them;May separate groups or create an ‘us and them’ distinction

Rhetorical question

A question asked for effect rather than an answer;May guide the audience towards an implied answer or encourage reflection

Evidence

Facts, statistics, research or expert testimony;May strengthen credibility or make an argument appear logical and well supported

Anecdote

A brief personal story or example;May humanise an issue and make it more relatable

Repetition

Repeating important words or phrases;May emphasise an idea and make it memorable

High modality

Forceful or certain language such as must, will, cannot, essential;May create certainty, urgency or obligation

Appeal

Language that draws upon something the audience values or cares about;May connect an argument with values such as fairness, safety, family, freedom or responsibility

Attack / criticism

Language that challenges an opposing person, idea or position;May undermine an opposing view and encourage the audience to reject it