Brief Guide to Writing Academic Arguments, A, 1st edition

Published by Pearson (December 17, 2008) © 2009

  • Stephen Wilhoit The University of Dayton
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A Brief Guide to Writing Academic Arguments prepares students to read and write the types of argument-related source-based writing they are most likely to encounter in college.

A Brief Guide offers an introduction to argumentation, critical reading, and argument-related source-based writing.  The instruction is firmly based in both writing process and rhetorical theory, offering step-by-step advice on producing effective, persuasive, conventionally sound arguments for academic audiences and purposes. 

A Brief Guide offers a complete argument course with an introductory chapter on Classical Argument, a highly-praised simplified approach to Toulmin, and four chapters on claim types rounded out with chapters on rhetorical analysis and visual argument.  Professional and student essays drawn from disciplines across the curriculum help students understand the nature of academic arguments; how to analyze and evaluate arguments; how academic writers form, support, and explain claims; and how they use source material as evidence. 

Contents

Preface

Acknowledgments

 

Ch. 1     What Makes an Academic Argument “Academic”?

What “Argument” Means in an Academic Setting

Context Is Everything: Understanding the Rhetorical Situation of Academic Arguments

Elements of the Rhetorical Situation

     How the Elements of the Rhetorical Situation Are Interconnected

Reading: “Generation Q,” by Thomas L. Friedman

 

Qualities of Effective Academic Arguments

     Effective Academic Arguments Are Clear and Precise

     Effective Academic Arguments Are Well Supported

     Effective Academic Arguments Are Properly Qualified 

     Effective Academic Arguments Are Placed in Context

     Effective Academic Arguments Employ an Appropriate Voice and Tone

     Effective Academic Arguments Follow Established Conventions      

     Effective Academic Arguments Are Sensitive to Audience Needs

 

Ch. 2     The Elements of Persuasive Academic Arguments         

What Makes Academic Arguments Persuasive?

Logos: The Role of Logic and Reason in Academic Arguments

     Claims

     Grounds 

     Explanations

     Qualifications

     Rebuttals

     Logos in Action: A Sample Argument

     Sample Reading: Letter to the Editor

     Common Logos-related Fallacies

Pathos: The Role of Emotion in Academic Arguments

     Pathos in Action: A Sample Essay

     Reading: “Perils and Promise: Destroy an Embryo, Waste a Life,” by Christopher H. Smith

     How Pathos Can Help You Develop Content and Choose Language

     How Pathos Can Help You Create a  Bond with Your Audience

     How Pathos Can Help You Communicate Your Own Emotional Investment in Your Argument

     Common Pathos-related Fallacies

Ethos: The Role of the Writer’s Authority and Credibility in Academic Arguments

     Establishing Ethos through Your Knowledge of the Topic

     Establishing Ethos through Accurate Writing

     Establishing Ethos by Being Open Minded, Honest, and Fair

     Establishing Ethos by Following Conventions

     Ethos in Action: A Sample Rea

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