ArreniteArgument: claim, evidence and counterargument
Read together
A strong argument has three parts: a claim (what you say is true), evidence (facts, examples or sources that support it) and reasoning (how the evidence supports the claim). The philosopher Stephen Toulmin described this pattern in 1958.
A strong argument also faces the other side. A counterargument is the best reason someone might disagree. A rebuttal answers it honestly. If you cannot answer it, you may need to change your claim.
Watch for weak reasoning, called fallacies. An ad hominem attacks the person, not the point. A straw man twists someone's view so it is easy to knock down. A false dichotomy says there are only two choices when there are more.
Do it
- Choose a debatable question where thoughtful people disagree, such as “Should schools start later in the morning?”.
- Write your claim in one sentence. Find three pieces of evidence from reliable sources and explain how each supports your claim.
- Write the strongest counterargument and a fair rebuttal. Do not make the other side look foolish.
- Read an advertisement or a social media post and name any fallacies. Rewrite it as an honest argument.
Talk about it
- What is the strongest reason someone might disagree with you?
- How do you know your sources are reliable?
For the grown-up
Good arguing is a skill of character as well as logic: honesty, fairness and willingness to change your mind. Model calm disagreement at home. The Bible values truthful speech and listening (for example Proverbs 18:13 and James 1:19).
Where this comes from
- Stephen E. Toulmin, The Uses of Argument (Cambridge University Press, 1958)
- Common Core State Standards Initiative, English Language Arts Standards, Writing, grades 9 to 10 (arguments with claims, evidence and counterclaims)
- Book of Proverbs 18:13; Letter of James 1:19
Written with AI assistance and checked against the sources listed. Please read it before sharing it with a child.