1 Understanding Argument Structure Free Online FlashCards

What is an argument?

An argument is a set of connected statements offered to support a position.

What is a main claim?

The main claim is the argument’s overall position—the point the author wants readers to accept.

What is a reason in an argument?

A reason explains why a claim should be accepted. Reasons are often claims themselves and may need evidence.

What counts as evidence in an argument?

Evidence is information offered to support a reason or claim, such as observations, records, data, examples, or expert findings.

What is an assumption, or warrant?

An assumption is an unstated idea that must be true for a reason or evidence to support a claim. In the Toulmin model, it is called a warrant.

How is a conclusion related to a claim?

A conclusion is a claim in the role of the point being supported. It may be the main claim or an intermediate claim.

Does evidence automatically make an argument convincing?

Evidence is not automatically convincing; its relevance and reliability still need to be assessed.

In the library example, what is the evidence?

The sign-in records showing that 72 students used the library after 4 p.m. at least once last month are evidence.

How can an intermediate conclusion function in a longer argument?

A supported intermediate conclusion can become a reason for a further conclusion.

How can a map show support in a complex argument?

Show each supporting point as a separate branch or step, and use arrows to indicate the direction of support.

How can you find an argument’s main conclusion?

Ask, “What does the author most want me to believe or do?” Indicator words such as “therefore” may help, but a conclusion can appear without one.

How do you separate evidence from interpretation?

Ask which statements report information and which explain what that information means.