AP LIT- Argumentation & Reasoning

Appeal to Authority

Using a respected figure to support an argument instead of real evidence

Argument

A reasoned, logical way of demonstrating that a position is valid

Claim

An arguable statement

Claim of Definition

Explains what something means or is made of

Claim of policy

Argues what should or shouldn't be done

Claim of value/Judgement

Argues whether something is good or bad

Concession

Admitting part of the opposing argument has validity

Deduction (Deductive Reason)

Reasoning from a general principle to a specific case

Ethos

Persuasion based on credibility or character

Induction (Inductive)

Reasoning from specific examples to form a general conclusion

Logos

Persuasion through logical reasoning and evidence

Pathos

Persuasion by appealing to emotions

Refutations

arguing against an opposing view

Syllogism

A three-part logical argument

Thesis

The main point or claim of an essay