Learn · Argumentation
Reason clearly. Respond fairly.
Practice the steps between an assertion and a supported conclusion.
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Make the reasoning visible
A claim is what you want someone to accept. Reasons are the statements offered in support. Evidence should support a specific reason, and an objection tests a weak point.
Illustrative example
Claim: a fictional campus reading room should trial later hours. Reason: some students can only use it in the evening. Evidence needed: observed demand and the cost of staffing. Objection: the trial may divert resources from other services.
Your task: build a short argument of your own. Explain how each reason supports the claim and what evidence would make it credible.
Self-review prompts
- Is the claim precise enough to disagree with?
- Does the evidence support the particular reason you give?
- Could your reasons be true while your conclusion is false?
- Have you treated the objection fairly?