Question

Read "Writing for Success: Argument" and respond to these questions:

1. What is an argument (in writing)?  
2. What is the purpose of using argument in writing?
3. Why is it important to be positive when you are writing an argument?
4. Why is a specific thesis better than a vague one?
5. Why is it important to address opposing viewpoints (otherwise known as counterarguments)
6. What does it mean to concede (offer a concession statement)?
7. How should a writer persuade an audience, especially a skeptical one?
8. Why is better to be respectful and reasonable when making an argument?
9. Why do writers need to be mindful of the use of first person (I, me, myself) when writing an argument?
10. What is the difference between facts and opinions?
11. What is an authoritative opinion?
12. What is the difference between quantitative visuals and qualitative visuals?

Hello,

I need help with this assignment please, and you can find the reading when you search it, it will be the first search, I cannot paste it here because it too long, so please look at it there.

Thank you

Answer 1

What is an argument (in writing)?

In writing, an “argument” is usually an idea which is usually supported by some evidence. Example: “Global warming is happening” is an argument which may be supported by the evidence statement like “The average temperature across the globe has been rising over the last few years.”

What is the purpose of using argument in writing?

Generally speaking, arguments provide a way for achieving one of the following:

• Changing the point of view of others (or persuading them to change their point of view)
• Persuading people to some action or behavior

Why is it important to be positive when you are writing an argument?

A positive argument is one in favor of your position while a negative argument is an argument against your opponent’s position. It is better to be positive in your arguments because while using positive arguments, you can improve your position by backing them with appropriate evidences. This way, you provide better defense to your statements against the negative arguments of others. Moreover, using positive arguments appear like you are just putting forward your point of view for others to examine while using just negative arguments may be felt like relentless attack on other’s position while leaving your own position open against their negative arguments. This might lead to ranting and failure of reason. Note that you will not be able to convince others unless they agree with you – You will need to attack the premises of their argument, not conclusion.

Why is a specific thesis better than a vague one?

A thesis needs to be specific, rather than vague – Being specific keeps the topic, causes, etc manageable and within scope. Vague terms may make the thesis appear too “general” – As if the scope is not defined properly. They can mislead the readers and make them lose interest even.

Why is it important to address opposing viewpoints (otherwise known as counterarguments)

A counterargument is an argument against your own main argument. Including them in writing is a good strategy as it projects an image of credibility and fairness – it shows that you have considered other point of views as well. You can also use counterarguments to refute opposition and make your position strong.

What does it mean to concede (offer a concession statement)?

A concession statement is a way of showing that you acknowledge other’s point of view. It projects an image of writer’s maturity as it shows that he has considered all points of view.

How should a writer persuade an audience, especially a skeptical one?

You can use the following methods to persuade a skeptical audience:

• Acknowledge the skepticism and reluctance of your audience
• Try to connect with your audience emotionally – Find some common ground
• Try to project an image of credibility
• Provide valid and strong evidence to support your arguments which are relevant to your audience as well.

Why is better to be respectful and reasonable when making an argument?

It is always better to be respectful and reasonable in arguments. Being respectful will avoid making the other unduly aggressive and improve/maintain your good image in their minds – That way, they will be more likely to try understanding your point of view. Proving proper reason behind your argument strengthens your position and improves your credibility – Without proper reasoning, your arguments will be baseless and you will not be able to convince others.

Why do writers need to be mindful of the use of first person (I, me, myself) when writing an argument?

While writing arguments, using first person can project an image in the mind of readers that the argument is writer’s own personal opinion. Thus, it can weaken the credibility of arguments.

What is the difference between facts and opinions?

A fact is a statement which is universally known (or proven) to be true while an opinion is a statement which someone (or some people) believe to be true.

What is an authoritative opinion?

Authoritative opinion is a way of expressing an opinion while providing evidence (or at least indication) that the writer (or the source from which the opinion is coming) is an expert or much knowledgeable in the subject.

What is the difference between quantitative visuals and qualitative visuals?

In writing, adding visual elements can help in persuasion. Quantitative visuals present data graphically and present logical appeals to the audience while qualitative visuals present images, photographs, etc that appeal to the emotions of audience.