Tracing Arguments: Understanding the Different Parts of an Argument and Writing an Argumentative Paragraph

Understanding the Different Parts of an Argument and Writing an Argumentative Paragraph

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you will be able to trace an argument, identify its different parts, and write an argumentative paragraph.

This slide sets the learning objective for the lesson.

What do you already know about arguments and persuasive writing?

What is an Argument?

An argument is a discussion or debate in which reasons are put forward in support of an idea or action.

Introduce the concept of an argument and discuss the importance of being able to analyze arguments.

The Different Parts of an Argument

An argument has three main parts: the claim, the evidence, and the reasoning.

Explain the three parts of an argument and provide examples for each.

The Claim

The claim is the main point or idea that the argument is trying to make.

Define the claim and provide examples.

The Evidence

The evidence is the facts or information that support the claim.

Define evidence and provide examples of different types of evidence.

The Reasoning

The reasoning is the explanation of how the evidence supports the claim.

Define reasoning and provide examples of how evidence can support a claim.

Tracing an Argument

Tracing an argument means identifying the claim, evidence, and reasoning in an argument and understanding how they work together.

Explain the importance of tracing an argument and provide examples of how to do this.

Argumentative Paragraphs

An argumentative paragraph is a paragraph that presents an argument and supports it with evidence and reasoning.

Introduce the concept of an argumentative paragraph and its structure.

The Structure of an Argumentative Paragraph

An argumentative paragraph has four main parts: the introduction, the claim, the evidence, and the conclusion.

Explain the structure of an argumentative paragraph and provide examples of each part.

The Introduction

The introduction sets the stage for the argument and provides some context for the reader.

Define the introduction and provide examples.

The Claim

The claim is the main point or idea that the paragraph is trying to make.

Define the claim and provide examples.

The Evidence

The evidence is the facts or information that support the claim.

Define evidence and provide examples of different types of evidence.

The Conclusion

The conclusion wraps up the paragraph and restates the main point or idea.

Define the conclusion and provide examples.

Practice Tracing Arguments

In pairs, read an argumentative paragraph and trace its parts. Identify the claim, evidence, and reasoning.

Provide a sample paragraph for students to work on and give instructions for the activity.

Write an Argumentative Paragraph

Using the structure we just discussed, write your own argumentative paragraph on a topic of your choice.

Give instructions for the writing activity and provide some topic ideas for students.

Peer Review

With a partner, review each other's argumentative paragraphs and offer constructive feedback.

Give instructions for the peer review activity and provide examples of constructive feedback.

Share Out

Volunteers can share their argumentative paragraphs with the class.

Encourage students to share their work and provide positive feedback.

Review

Let's review what we've learned about tracing arguments and writing argumentative paragraphs.

Summarize the key points of the lesson and ask students to reflect on what they've learned.

Assessment

Complete the assessment worksheet to demonstrate your understanding of the lesson.

Provide the assessment worksheet and give instructions for completing it.

Conclusion

Great job! You've learned how to trace arguments, identify the different parts of an argument, and write an argumentative paragraph.

Wrap up the lesson and give students positive reinforcement for their hard work.