Introduction to Components of Argument

Vocabulary flashcards covering core concepts, terminology, types of claims, and models of argument from the AP Language course material.

Argument

An assertion or claim based on evidence supported by reasoning.

Claim

An opinion that can be supported by evidence and reason, serving as the main idea, point, or thesis presented in an argument.

Claim about meaning

A type of claim that defines or characterizes a subject (e.g., "Country music is…").

Claim about value

A type of claim that evaluates whether a subject is good or bad (e.g., "Country music is good").

Claim about policy

A type of claim advocating for or against a specific action or rule (e.g., "Music stations should be forced to limit country music.").

Claim about consequences

A type of claim asserting the results or impact of a subject or behavior (e.g., "People who listen to country music are missing out on better quality music.").

Justification

The acknowledgment that a subject actually lends itself to legitimate differences of opinion.

Reasoning

A consideration which justifies or explains an action, a belief, an attitude, or a fact.

Evidence

The part of an argument that is interpreted in support of the claim.

Types of Evidence

Sources of support for claims, including facts, anecdotes, analogies, statistics, examples, details, illustrations, expert opinions, personal observations, personal experiences, testimonies, or experiments.

Counter-Argument

An alternative interpretation of evidence that challenges a claim.

Refutation

The acknowledgment and response to opposing viewpoints (rebuttal) to present a compelling argument.

Interpretation (Warrant)

The connection built between widely accepted evidence and debated claims (unstated beliefs that connect evidence to claim).

Toulmin Model

A popular approach to understanding argument developed by philosopher Stephen Toulmin, observing that arguments involve a claim supported by reasons and evidence, underlaid by warrants.

Stephen Toulmin

The philosopher who developed the Toulmin Model of argument.

Qualifiers

Cue words and phrases (such as sometimes, probably, usually, and in most cases) that clarify a claim by restricting its absoluteness.

Rogerian Argument

A form of argumentative reasoning (or Rogerian rhetoric) that aims to establish a middle ground between parties with opposing viewpoints or goals.

Synthesis Essay

An AP Lang FRQ format where ideas from presented sources are combined to make an argument.

Rhetorical Analysis Essay

An AP Lang FRQ format explaining how an author's use of rhetorical choices achieved a purpose or effect.

Argument Essay

An AP Lang FRQ format requiring a literal argument essay written in response to a quote or idea.

Stephen King

Author of "Why We Crave Horror Movies," used as a practice text for analyzing argument components.