Chapter 5

Chapter 5 – Toulmin Model of Argument

Big Idea

  • Arguments are built in units

  • Each main point = contention

  • Each contention is supported by a unit of argument

  • Based on the Toulmin Model

Primary Triad (Main 3 Parts)

1. Claim

  • The conclusion you want the audience to accept

  • Audience decides if they agree

  • Types of claims:

    • Factual – what is/was/will be

    • Definitional – how something is defined

    • Value – judgment (good/bad)

    • Policy – what should be done

  • Example structure: “X causes Y”

2. Grounds

  • The evidence supporting the claim

  • What makes the claim believable

  • Should be:

    • Reliable (accurate & recent)

    • High quality

    • Consistent

    • Audience-appropriate

  • Example: “X is present and Y is present”

3. Warrant

  • Explains why the grounds prove the claim

  • Connects evidence → conclusion

  • Shows reasoning

  • Example: “X has ability to produce Y”

Primary Triad Formula

Grounds → Warrant → Claim

“X is present” + “X produces Y” → “X causes Y”

Secondary Triad (Strengthens Argument)

4. Backing

  • Support for the warrant

  • Proves the reasoning is valid

5. Qualifiers

  • Words that limit strength of claim

  • Examples: probably, usually, likely, sometimes

6. Rebuttals

  • Acknowledge exceptions

  • Show when the claim may not apply