Key Concepts in Argumentation

Front

Facts, examples, statistics, or expert opinions used to support a claim and make an argument stronger.

Back

Evidence

Front

The clear and organized order of ideas in an essay, ensuring that arguments build upon each other in a way that makes sense.

Back

Logical Sequence

Front

Academic and professional word choice and tone, avoiding slang, contractions, and informal expressions.

Back

Formal Language

Front

Words or phrases that help connect ideas smoothly, guiding the reader from one point to the next (e.g., therefore, however, for example)

Back

Transitions

Front

To give credit to sources of information by mentioning where the evidence or ideas came from, usually following a specific format (e.g., MLA, APA)

Back

Cite

Front

To explain an idea further by providing more details, examples, or reasoning to make it clearer and stronger.

Back

Elaborate

Front

Information that directly supports the claim, is related to the argument, and strengthens the overall reasoning.

Back

Relevant Evidence

Front

What is the unnecessary repetition of ideas or words, which can weaken an argument by making it less concise and clear?

Back

Redundancy

Front

What is the main argument or position in an argumentative essay, stating what the writer believes to be true?

Back

Claim

Front

True or False: An opposing viewpoint to the writer’s counterclaim, included to show an understanding of different perspectives.

Back

False