Argumentation and Rhetoric

What this page covers

This page brings together study material on how arguments are built, tested and made persuasive. Some resources look at logic: validity, premises, conclusions and fallacies. Others look at rhetoric: the rhetorical situation, tropes and metaphor, and the ancient tradition of persuasion. The collection was made by GoConqr users, so styles vary from short term lists to full class notes.

Where to start

Begin with the basics of argument structure. The AS critical Thinking Terms deck defines claim, reason, evidence, example and conclusion. The Logical Fallacies mind map explains reasoning that sounds true but is deceptive, such as hasty generalization. Students preparing for A-level Critical Thinking will find the AS terms deck and the unit notes especially close to their needs.

Models of argument

Next, compare ways of arguing. The The 3 Approaches to Arguments mind map sets out the Classical, Toulmin and Rogerian approaches. The Toulmin's Model slide set then goes deeper into data, claim and warrant. After that, try the 6 Types of Warrents mind map to see how warrants differ.

Using quizzes and maps together

1. Read a mind map and write down the key terms in your own words.
2. Take a quiz such as Authority Quiz One, which asks you to judge an appeal to authority.
3. Return to the map for any point you missed.
4. Use a flashcard deck, such as ARGUMENT STRUCTURE PASSAGES, to practice spotting premises, assumptions and conclusions.

The quizzes here are a small set, so mind maps and flashcards will carry most of your practice.

Where it fits

This unit sits in the strand Introduction to Philosophy and Reasoning, within the subject Philosophy. It suits anyone who wants to read arguments closely and write them more clearly.

Choose one resource that matches what you are studying this week, and work through it from start to finish.