Framing An Argument Using Different Claims For Writing ✓ Solved

Framing An Argument By Using Different Claimsclaims For Written Argume

Framing an Argument by using Different CLAIMS Claims for written Argument: The thesis for an argument—any argument—needs to be opinionated or debatable. The thesis will usually fall into 4 different categories or claims (as described below). Sometimes, an arguable thesis may overlap and use 2 or even 3 different claims. Remember, the more claims you incorporated into a thesis, the longer an essay will be. A good writer will construct a focused and narrow thesis -claim that will allow enough room to write a thorough, persuasive essay on the topic.

1) Claims of Fact or Definition When a writer chooses to make a claim of fact or definition, be sure that you choose a DEBATABLE fact or definition. For example, if a student claimed that the Brazilian Samba was a slow graceful dance, it would only take a few moments of research for me to find that it is actually a fast-paced, rhythmic, and lively dance. So clearly, this claim would not be debatable; there is no argument. However people disagree about many supposed "facts." One debatable claim I always encounter in the classroom is whether or not student grades really measure achievement. Another claim is whether or not a lie-detector test is really accurate. Are methods of torture (i.e., water-boarding) necessary measures the government should undergo in order to get a suspect to divulge crucial information? And what constitutes "necessary measures" in the first place?

2) Claims About Cause & Effect Similar to the claims about fact or definition, claims about cause and effect need to be opinionated or debatable. It is obvious, for example, that smoking causes lung cancer, but one could debate whether or not secondhand smoke causes lung cancer. A few recent examples of debatable cause-and-effect topics could be about the new train that has been built, traveling from Beijing to Tibet. Many feel that this train will threaten the Tibetan culture and ancient way of life. Other more typical controversial cause-and-effect topics range from the effect television has on teens to the effect testing has on the quality of education.

3) Claims About Solutions or Policies This claim is a perfect example of how 2 different claims can overlap each other. Claims about solutions or policies usually work hand in hand with claims about fact or definition. For example, because the healthcare system does not adequately assist Americans (argue that this is a fact), they should be reformed (argue for the solution/policy). Also, any policy relating to under-aged minors is always controversial because it is difficult to define when an adolescent is capable of making a deliberate decision, just as an adult would.

4) Claims About Value Claims about value generally lead to essays that evaluate. Anytime a writer places value on someone or something as "the best" or "superior", or immoral and bad, that writer is making a claim about value. While writers should always anticipate how to respond to the opposing viewpoint, it is particularly crucial to do so when dealing with a claim about value. For example, people who are blind have a unique culture of blindness, and many believe that living a visionless life is better than living a seeing-life. But to properly address this topic and claim, one must anticipate and respond to the opposing viewpoint, that seeing-life has significant benefits. Another example is that of Ultimate Fighting Championships (UFC). One could argue that UFC is a dehumanizing sport. The anticipated opposing viewpoint could be that UFC fighters undergo extensive training and skill-based martial arts, thus making it a viable athletic competition.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Framing an argument effectively requires understanding the different types of claims a writer can make, each serving to persuade or inform a particular audience. Academic and persuasive writing hinges on the ability to formulate a debatable thesis that encompasses one or more of these core claim types: claims of fact or definition, claims about cause and effect, claims about solutions or policies, and claims about value. By strategically selecting and combining these claims, writers can craft compelling arguments that not only present evidence but also resonate emotionally and ethically with their readers.

Claims of fact or definition establish what is true or how terms should be understood. These claims must be debatable; otherwise, they fall into the realm of undisputed facts or accepted definitions. For example, asserting that “Brazilian Samba is a slow, graceful dance” would not be debatable, as research shows it is a lively, rhythmic dance. Conversely, arguing whether student grades accurately measure achievement remains debatable because interpretations and values about education vary among different stakeholders. Similarly, claims about methods of interrogation, like waterboarding, entail complex ethical considerations—should such techniques be deemed necessary for national security? Such claims invite ongoing debate about morality, effectiveness, and human rights.

In claims about cause and effect, the key is to present connections that are subject to interpretation and scrutiny. While certain causes, such as smoking leading to lung cancer, are well-established, the effects of secondhand smoke on health continue to be debated among researchers. Ethical and cultural implications also arise when considering infrastructural developments, like the Beijing-Tibet train, which raises questions about cultural preservation and modernization. These claims require evidence to link causes with effects convincingly and must be framed in a way that invites discussion rather than presenting a fait accompli.

Claims about solutions or policies are intertwined with claims of fact and often carry normative judgments. For instance, asserting that the U.S. healthcare system is inadequate and therefore requires reform involves a factual claim about current deficiencies, coupled with a policy claim about what should be changed. Particularly controversial are policies concerning minors, as determining adolescents' decision-making capacity involves legal, ethical, and developmental considerations. Effective persuasive writing proposes tangible solutions grounded in evidence, emphasizing why reform is necessary and how proposed changes could improve societal well-being.

Claims about value grapple with subjective evaluations of morality, excellence, or importance. For example, debates about the cultural identity of blind individuals versus those who see involve conflicting values—some argue that blindness fosters a unique, rich culture, while others prioritize the advantages of sight. Similarly, discussions about the morality and entertainment value of sports like UFC pit cultural and ethical values against perceptions of violence and dehumanization. These claims necessitate the writer to anticipate opposing viewpoints and argue persuasively, supporting their position with ethical reasoning and emotional resonance.

Overall, effective argument construction demands careful selection of claim types aligned with the writer’s purpose and audience. Recognizing the rhetorical strategies—ethos, pathos, and logos—and crafting claims that leverage these appeals enhances credibility, emotional engagement, and logical persuasion. For instance, establishing ethos involves demonstrating expertise through research or experience; appealing to pathos engages emotions via connotative language and storytelling; and using logos provides sound evidence and logical reasoning. Successful writers also consider their audience's background and potential objections, ensuring their argument is not only convincing but also respectful and nuanced.

In conclusion, the art of framing an argument hinges on choosing the appropriate type of claim(s) and supporting them with robust evidence and appeals. Whether discussing controversial facts, causes, solutions, or values, skilled writers craft claims designed to persuade, inform, or challenge their readers’ perspectives. Developing this skill is fundamental for effective academic writing, persuasive essays, and critical discourse across disciplines, ultimately shaping informed and engaged citizens capable of thoughtful debate and decision-making.

References

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