English 1302 Composition II: Introduction to argument (3-21)

Define argument: is (Academic argument)

Academic argument is a type of formal argument that takes a stand, presents evidence, includes documentation, uses logic to convince an audience to accept (or at least consider) the writer's position.

Rhetorical situation

refers to factors that influence the creation of any type of communication-especially its words, images, and structure. 1)the writer 2)the purpose 3)the audience 4)the question 5)the context

Elements that can affect the tone and content of an argument

-age -education -gender -ethnicity -cultural experiences -political affiliation -religion -sexuality -social standing

Three types of audiences

1)friendly audience: Sympathetic to your argument. 2)hostile audience: disagrees with your position and does not accept the underlying assumptions of your argument. 3)neutral audience: has no preconceived opinions about the issue you are going to discuss.

Defining argument: Is not

Argument is NOT: 1)Quarrel: an angry exchange. 2)Spin: positive or biased slant that politicians routinely put on facts. 3)Propaganda: Information (misinformation) that is spread to support a particular viewpoint. 4)Contradiction or denial of someone else's position.

rhetorical triangle

a diagram that represents a rhetorical situation as the relationship among the speaker, the subject, and the audience

rhetorical appeals

ethos: appeal to authority pathos: appeal to emotions logos: appeal to reason

Informal arguments

those that occur in daily life, where people often get into arguments about politics, sports, social issues, and personal relationships.

Formal arguments

those you develop in academic discussion and writing.