This document outlines the key components of an argument: the claim, evidence, and warrant. It defines a claim as stating a position on an issue. Evidence supports the claim and can include facts, statistics, expert opinions, or personal experiences. A warrant interprets the evidence and shows how it supports the claim using generally accepted rules. A good warrant reasonably analyzes the facts without logical leaps and assumptions beyond what the evidence supports, and may consider counter-arguments.

1. Argumentation

2. CLAIM
States your position on an issue.

3. Good claims are…
Engaging
Specific
Logical

4. Claim Examples
Though they seem mere entertainment,
Hollywood movies are actually
responsible for reinforcing cultural
stereotypes in America.

5. EVIDENCE
Support for your claim

6. Evidence can include…
Facts and statistics
Expert opinion
Primary research
Personal anecdote

7. Evidence example…
Last year the State of Minnesota spent
$$$ million dollars promoting their
state-run lottery through ads
focusing on the contributions made
to environmental funds (Cary).
Churches have used raffles, bingo
nights, and even card tournaments
as fundraisers for years.

8. WARRANT
Interprets the data and shows how it supports the
claim. It is usually a generally accepted rule.

9. A Good Warrant …
will be a reasonable interpretation
and analysis of the facts.
will not make illogical interpretive
leaps.
will not assume more than the
evidence supports.
may consider and respond to possible
counter-arguments.

10. A Good Warrant …
will be a reasonable interpretation
and analysis of the facts.
will not make illogical interpretive
leaps.
will not assume more than the
evidence supports.
may consider and respond to possible
counter-arguments.