How to Write an Argument
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Transcript of How to Write an Argument
Writing an Argument
The Plan
How to write an argument
Getting people to listen to your side
Writing academically
Citations, bibliography, etc.
Easier than it sounds
Doing research
AKA the fun part
What is an argument?
Argument
A reason or set of reasons given with the aim of persuading others that an action or idea is right or wrong.
Definition of argument in Oxford English Dictionaries. (2013). Oxford Dictionaries Online. Oxford University: Oxford University Press. Retrieved from http://oxforddictionaries.com/us/definition/american_english/argument?q=argument
Argument
Thoughtful and reasoned out
Based on facts
Citable sources whose own positions are based on research
Arguments are made of research!
Opinion
A view or judgment formed about something, not necessarily based on fact or knowledge.
Definition of opinion in Oxford English Dictionaries. (2013). Oxford Dictionaries Online. Oxford University: Oxford University Press. Retrieved from http://oxforddictionaries.com/us/definition/american_english/opinion?q=opinion
Opinion
Based on your feelings and beliefs
Background, personal bias, etc.
No sources other than your brain
Makes people stop listening to you
Building an argument
Find a bunch of existing positions
AKA “do research”
Present them
Represent multiple sides!
Use them to make your own point
Your point will be: Reasoned
Rational
Based on the research
The Electric CarSide 1:
Research suggests that companies will need to increase the electric car's range and lower its cost before it becomes a good option for drivers. (Rajashekara, 1994).
The Electric CarSide 2:
But Kirsch (2000) shows that the electric car has emerged again and again in history to compete with gasoline engines.
The Electric CarYour position:
Based on these facts, it's clear that there is a continuing strong interest in the electric car. The electric car is a good investment for companies despite the challenges.
Advantages
Persuasive
You've thought about the issue from multiple angles
Addresses other points of view
Makes it easier to address criticism
Makes people respect you
Because you're smart!
Citations and Bibliography
Why?
Show your professor where you got your information
Then they can see what an awesome researcher you are!
Validate your facts
Give credit
Convention
Everyone uses the same style
APA Citation
Kirsch (2000) makes the case that the electric car will succeed because it has succeeded in the past.
OR
The electric car has succeeded in the past and will succeed again in the future. (Kirsch, 2000)
Research Time!
APA Bibliography
Kirsch, D.A. (2000). The Electric car and the burden of history. Rutgers, VT: Rutgers University Press.
Rajashekara, K. (1994). History of Electric Vehicles in General Motors. IEEE transactions on Industry Applications, 30 (4). Retrieved from http://endoc.net/pdf/1958.pdf.
Your Research
Your Paper
Your ResourcesLibrarians
Databases
Get them through the library!
Good ol' fashioned print
Books
Magazines
Microfiche
Please refer to your handouts for some ideas!
About the Internet...
Google Web page popularity contest
No accounting for quality
Not your friend
Wikipedia Anyone can edit
Changes constantly
Not your friend