Toulmin Argument [Lesson/Rubric]
Kimberly Stelly
Overview
After selecting a controversial topic, doing research, and completing an annotated bibliography for both sides of your argument, you are now ready to write a persuasive essay following the Toulmin Argument structure. Using your sources, present a reasonable, detailed, and convincing argument that proves your stance. Your audience is undecided about the topic. Your goal is to convince your audience of the validity of your position by using logical reasoning and valuable and reliable supporting evidence.
- Length: 3-4 pages (not including the Works Cited Page)
- Research: At least 6 sources and 8+ citations
- Structure:
- Introduction with Claim
- Grounds
- Rebuttal, Part One: Counterargument
- Rebuttal, Part Two: Refutation and Dismissal
- Conclusion
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this assignment, students will
- create a persuasive Toulmin Argument by introducing a current and arguable claim, developing grounds with evidence, addressing counterarguments, and concluding with restated claims and implications.
Introduction with CLAIM
The introduction should
- introduce the topic. Consider the goal or reason behind tackling this topic. Why should this topic concern society as a whole? Make sure the topic is controversial and current (i.e. happening this year). What conversations are currently being had about this topic?
- include any necessary background about the issue, including history, facts, dates, statistics, etc.
- define any unfamiliar or ambiguous terms. Explain any jargon associated with your topic.
- summarize the specific controversy, and include the opposing views or possibilities.
- state a claim or a position about the issue. Your claim is a debatable statement. If you qualify your claim, then you will limit your argument, which will make your argument easier to support.
- establish your credibility by demonstrating knowledge of the issue.
GROUNDS
The grounds should
- develop several reasons that support the claim.
- support all reasons with specific evidence from research (statistics or facts).
- integrate any direct quotes when
- the idea expressed is so clearly stated that paraphrasing or summarizing would distort or change the meaning of the statement or idea.
- referencing an expert whose opinions and exact words would establish your credibility.
- quoting a counterargument to show that you are representing their opinions fairly.
- there are lead-ins for every quote (i.e. no “drop quotes”).
- every quote (paraphrased or direct) is cited.
- fully explain the significance of evidence as it relates to reason and claim.
- include a stem explaining who is speaking and why we should listen for each quote. Is the speaker an expert, not just a writer or reporter?
- explain exactly how any cited research was conducted, the time frame of research, and who the subjects were or how they were selected.
- avoid argumentation fallacies.
- include any necessary warrants or