15.2 Developing Persuasive Arguments

Persuasive arguments are key to effective communication. They're built on claims, evidence, and addressing opposing views. By understanding your audience and using emotional and logical appeals, you can craft compelling arguments that resonate.

Developing strong arguments isn't just about being right. It's about connecting with your audience, anticipating objections, and presenting a clear, logical case. Mastering these skills will make you a more persuasive communicator in any situation.

Components of an Argument

Core Elements

Top images from around the web for Core Elements

• 

  GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS for Reading/Writing Patterns – How to Learn Like a Pro! View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Making and Supporting Claims | FASTrack WRIT 102 Writing Guide View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  9.7: Inductive and Deductive Reasoning - Humanities LibreTexts View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS for Reading/Writing Patterns – How to Learn Like a Pro! View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Making and Supporting Claims | FASTrack WRIT 102 Writing Guide View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Core Elements

• 

  GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS for Reading/Writing Patterns – How to Learn Like a Pro! View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Making and Supporting Claims | FASTrack WRIT 102 Writing Guide View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  9.7: Inductive and Deductive Reasoning - Humanities LibreTexts View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS for Reading/Writing Patterns – How to Learn Like a Pro! View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Making and Supporting Claims | FASTrack WRIT 102 Writing Guide View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• Claim communicates the central argument or stance on an issue
  • Presents a clear and concise statement that can be supported with evidence
  • Functions as the foundation upon which the entire argument is built (thesis statement)
• Evidence supports the claim by providing facts, statistics, examples, or expert testimony
  • Strengthens the argument by demonstrating the validity of the claim
  • Can include various types of information such as research findings, historical data, or personal anecdotes (case studies)

Addressing Opposition

• Counterargument acknowledges and addresses potential opposing views or criticisms
  • Demonstrates an understanding of alternative perspectives and enhances credibility
  • Allows the writer to preemptively address objections and strengthen their own argument
• Rebuttal directly responds to the counterargument by refuting or challenging its validity
  • Provides additional evidence or reasoning to support the original claim
  • Weakens the opposing argument and reinforces the writer's stance (refutation)

Connecting Elements

• Warrant explains the connection between the claim and the evidence
  • Clarifies how the evidence logically supports the claim and why it is relevant
  • Often relies on underlying assumptions or general principles that the audience is expected to accept (reasoning)
  • Helps the audience understand the reasoning behind the argument and increases its persuasive power

Persuasive Strategies

Understanding the Audience

• Audience analysis involves researching and understanding the target audience's beliefs, values, and needs
  • Enables the writer to tailor the argument to the audience's specific interests and concerns
  • Helps identify potential objections or counterarguments that need to be addressed
  • Allows for the selection of evidence and examples that resonate with the audience (demographic information)

Appealing to Emotions and Logic

• Emotional appeal aims to evoke feelings such as fear, anger, or sympathy in the audience
  • Engages the audience on a personal level and creates a connection to the argument
  • Can be effective in motivating the audience to take action or change their perspective (fear of missing out)
• Logical appeal relies on reason and evidence to convince the audience of the argument's validity
  • Presents a clear and well-structured argument that follows a logical progression
  • Uses facts, statistics, and expert opinions to support the claim and establish credibility (deductive reasoning)

Establishing Credibility and Encouraging Action

• Credibility, or ethos, refers to the writer's trustworthiness and expertise on the subject matter
  • Can be established through the use of credible sources, personal experience, or professional qualifications
  • Enhances the audience's trust in the writer and increases the likelihood of persuasion (authority)
• Call to action encourages the audience to take a specific action based on the argument presented
  • Provides clear and actionable steps that the audience can take to support the claim
  • Creates a sense of urgency and motivates the audience to engage with the issue (sign a petition)