Argument Analysis Writing Notes

Writing About Argument

  • Focus: Introduction + Topic Sentences

Learning Outcomes

  • Understand the structuring acronym for introductions in argument analysis.

  • Know the formula for topic sentences in body paragraphs of an argument analysis.

  • Understand the difference between poetry analysis and argument analysis.

Writing an Analysis Introduction

  • Intentions: To present an overview of findings, similar to other analyses.

  • Difference from Poetry Analysis: Argument analysis typically does not have a guiding question like poetry analysis (e.g., 'how does the writer craft argument to persuade an audience?'). This question is implicitly learned rather than explicitly stated in Year 12 SAC or exam papers.

  • Elements of a Cohesive Paragraph (CCTAPF): The following elements should form a cohesive paragraph:

    • Context

    • Contention

    • Tone

    • Audience

    • Purpose

    • Form

CCTAPF Breakdown

  • Context: The forum for publication/delivery and background information.

  • Contention: The overall argument.

  • Tone: The combination of tones used to deliver the argument.

  • Audience: The target audience, usually derived from the publication context and form.

  • Purpose: What the speaker/writer wishes the audience to feel, act, or think (call to action).

  • Form: The type of text.

Activity: CCTAPF for Stan Grant Speech

  • Create a table in your notes to fill in the CCTAPF elements for the Stan Grant speech.

Developing a Cohesive Paragraph

  • Use a provided template to assist in writing the introduction paragraph based on the CCTAPF table.

Writing Body Paragraphs

  • Structure: TEE/WEE (Technique/Word Choice + Example + Effect)

  • Each paragraph should contain:

    • Topic Sentence

    • TEE/WEE x 3

    • Link

Topic Sentence Formula

  • Surname + verb + argument.

Technique/Word Choice + Example + Effect (TEE/WEE)

  • Draw out 3 level 1+2 examples

  • Explain which persuasive technique or word choice is used, provide an example of the technique/word choice and explain it's intended effect (how is it designed to make audience feel, act or think).

Writing Topic Sentences

  • Formula: Speaker + Verb + Explain the Section

    • Speaker/Writer: No first names; indicate the development (e.g., Stan Grant opens by… The speaker then… Davis closes by…).

    • Verb: Always present tense (e.g., Presenting, Articulates, Goes on to suggest, Then compares).

    • Explain Section: Always present tense, focused on WHAT is argued in that section, no metalanguage or devices (e.g., Grant opens the speech with a logical political argument that the Australian Dream has a racist past that has continued to the present, which contradicts the National Anthem).