Text Structure of Argumentative Texts Study Guide for Argumentative Texts
Learning Objectives for Argumentative Texts
Distinguish between facts, opinions, and informed opinions within argumentative texts.
Identify the structural components, evidence types, and linguistic features utilized in argumentative writing.
Construct and present a logical argument supported by relevant reasons and evidence.
Understanding Argumentation
Argumentation involves expressing an opinion clearly and backing it up with facts and evidence.
It requires addressing opposing ideas respectfully and logically to persuade an audience.
The process helps readers think critically and understand how reasoning is used to influence others.
Argumentation is considered the art of supporting a point of view using reasons, logic, and evidence.
It encourages careful evaluation of ideas and clear communication of thoughts through respectful discussion.
Argumentative writing specifically aims to persuade readers to accept a specific position or idea by presenting clear claims and addressing opposing viewpoints effectively.
Illustrative Example: Single-Use Plastic Bags
Issue: Should single-use plastic bags be banned?
Claim: Single-use plastic bags should be banned.
Evidence: Millions of plastic bags end up in oceans and landfills each year, harming wildlife and polluting the environment.
Counterargument: Some people argue that plastic bags are convenient and inexpensive.
Response: Although plastic bags are convenient, reusable bags provide a practical alternative that reduces environmental damage in the long run.
Classifying Information: Facts, Opinions, and Informed Opinions
Facts:
Statements that can be proven true or false.
Derived from reliable sources, observations, or documents.
They are objective and remain uninfluenced by personal feelings or beliefs.
Opinions:
Statements expressing a person’s feelings, beliefs, judgments, or personal views.
They are subjective and cannot be proven true or false.
Informed Opinions:
Opinions originating from experts who have studied a topic deeply.
Based on research, experience, and careful observation.
Examples of Informed Opinions:
With research reference: “Research suggests that getting enough sleep can help students focus better during lessons.”
With expert voice: “Health experts recommend that teenagers get at least hours of sleep each night.”
With experience-based authority: “Many parents notice that their children are more active and attentive when they get enough sleep.”
Argumentative Writing vs. Persuasive Writing
Argumentative Writing:
Focuses strictly on logic and evidence.
Presents both sides of an issue.
Encourages informed decision-making.
Persuasive Writing:
Appeals primarily to emotions and feelings.
Often ignores opposing views.
Tries to sway the reader emotionally.
Structure of an Argumentative Text
1. Introduction:
Grabs the reader’s attention using a hook, such as a punchy question, a surprising fact or statistic, or a quote from a well-known person.
Presents the thesis statement, which is the main idea or position the writer will defend.
Presents the issue and background without using phrases like "I agree" or "I disagree."
2. Development (Body):
The heart of the essay containing at least logical reasons to support the thesis.
Each paragraph focuses on one specific idea and uses transitions for smooth connection.
Example (Thesis: Recycling should be practiced to reduce waste, protect the environment, and save resources):
Reason 1 (Accessibility/Waste Reduction): Recycling lessens garbage in landfills and streets.
Reason 2 (Participation/Environmental Protection): Recycling prevents pollution by reducing the need to burn or dump waste.
Reason 3 (Informed Decision/Resource Conservation): Recycling allows materials like paper, plastic, and metal to be reused, conserving natural resources.
3. Counterargument and Refutation:
Briefly mentions the opposing side to show understanding of the view.
Refutation explains why the writer's own stand remains stronger.
Example:
Counterargument: Recycling is too time-consuming and inconvenient.
Refutation: Recycling becomes easy once habits are formed, and long-term benefits outweigh the small effort.
4. Conclusion:
Summarizes the main points.
Reinforces the thesis statement.
Avoids introducing any new ideas or examples.
Leaves a strong impression via a call to action, a thought-provoking statement, or a memorable quote.
Types of Evidence and Sources
Scholarly Books, Articles, and Journals: Written by experts and peer-reviewed by professionals.
Statistics: Numerical data provided to make arguments more convincing.
First-hand Research: Original studies like surveys, interviews, or experiments.
Textual Evidence: Quotes and scenes from poems, speeches, or stories used to support interpretations.
Primary Sources: First-hand documents, accounts, or direct evidence regarding an event, topic, or time period.
Linguistic Features of Argumentative Texts
Diction (Word Choice):
Must be clear, precise, formal, objective, and purposeful.
Professional Verbs: argue, claim, suggest, demonstrate, emphasize, support, refute.
Professional Nouns: evidence, perspective, issue, stance, implication.
Professional Adjectives: valid, credible, logical, relevant, significant, informed.
Words to Avoid (Biased/Vague): bad, good, awesome, tremble, amazing.
Qualifiers to Avoid: always, never, everyone, nobody, obviously.
Emotional Phrases to Avoid: I feel, I hate, I love, it is unfair, it is ridiculous.
Transitional Devices:
To add ideas: furthermore, in addition, moreover, also.
To show opposing ideas: however, on the other hand, although, whereas.
To show cause and effect: therefore, as a result, consequently, thus.
To emphasize: indeed, in fact, especially, significantly.
To conclude: in conclusion, to summarize, ultimately, finally.
Sentence Structure and Function:
Uses declarative sentences to state claims directly.
Uses interrogative sentences to raise thought-provoking questions.
Ethical Considerations: Fair and Balanced Arguments
Developing fair and balanced arguments demonstrates intellectual honesty and credibility.
It shows respect for differing perspectives and increases the overall persuasiveness of the message by providing a comprehensive view of the topic.
Critical Thinking Exercises and Scenarios
Fact vs. Opinion Identification Task:
The human brain continues to develop during the teenage years (Fact).
K-pop is the best music genre (Opinion).
Using smartphones before bed can affect sleep quality (Fact).
Everyone should be allowed to use their phones during class (Opinion).
Video games can improve problem-solving skills (Fact/Claim).
School uniforms should be abolished (Opinion).
Pluto is classified as a dwarf planet (Fact).
Influencers have a positive impact on teenagers (Opinion).
The internet has made learning easier than ever before (Opinion).
Modern Family is the worst TV show (Opinion).
Scenario: Who Deserves the Heart?
A major accident leaves four patients in critical condition needing a heart transplant immediately.
Only donor heart is available.
Candidates:
A child.
A doctor.
A parent of children.
A community leader.
Task: Groups must choose a candidate and construct an argument covering position, reasons, evidence, and persuasive language for a presentation to a hospital board lasting to minutes.
Questions & Discussion
How do you decide what information you trust? Participants share one word or phrase to describe their decision-making process for findng believable information.
Why is it important to distinguish facts from opinions when making an argument? Discussion on how this distinction impacts the strength and validity of a claim.
Which is more convincing in an argument: facts or opinions? Why? Evaluation of the persuasive power of objective data versus subjective belief.
How can facts and opinions work together to strengthen an argument? Exploration of the synergy between objective evidence and personal/expert perspectives.
Exit Ticket Reflection:
1. What new idea about argumentation did you learn today?
2. How can distinguishing facts from opinions help you in everyday life?
3. How can you use argumentation skills to communicate your ideas effectively?