AP Seminar Big Idea 2: Critical Inquiry Frameworks

Big Idea 2: Understand and Analyze

Focuses on processing answers and analyzing arguments in research.

Critical Analysis

Moving beyond passive reading to understanding how and why an argument is constructed.

Argument Structure Hierarchy

Identifying the thesis, claims, and evidence in a text.

Thesis / Main Idea

The central assertion the author aims to prove.

Claims

Supporting points or 'pillars' that uphold the thesis.

Evidence

Data, quotes, facts, or statistics that support claims.

Annotating for Function

Highlighting the role of sentences in a text (e.g., claims, rebuttals).

Contextualization

Placing the text within its historical, authorial, and publication contexts.

Line of Reasoning (LOR)

The logical arrangement of claims and evidence leading to a conclusion.

Transitions

Signal words that connect argument parts and indicate relationships.

Inductive Reasoning

Moving from specific observations to a general conclusion.

Deductive Reasoning

Moving from general truths to a specific conclusion.

Lens

A filter or category through which a topic is viewed.

Perspective

A specific viewpoint or stance regarding a topic.

RAVEN Framework

A criterion for evaluating source credibility: Reputation, Ability to Observe, Vested Interest, Expertise, Neutrality.

Bias

A personal prejudice that affects judgment.

Limitation

A structural weakness in an argument not necessarily intentional.

Hasty Generalization

Drawing broad conclusions from a small amount of evidence.

Ad Hominem

Attacking the person rather than their argument.

Straw Man

Misrepresenting an argument to make it easier to attack.

Post Hoc / False Causality

Assuming causation from mere sequence.

False Dilemma (Either/Or)

Presenting two extreme options when a middle ground exists.

Summary vs. Analysis

Summary is stating what is said; analysis is understanding how it is constructed.

Evidence vs. Fact

Facts are neutral, while evidence supports claims and must be analyzed.

Counter-Argument

The opposing view that should be acknowledged and refuted in strong arguments.

Vague Claims of Bias

General assertions of bias that need specific examples of how they impact credibility.

Emotional Anecdotes

Stories used to appeal to readers' emotions and strengthen arguments.

Relevance

How well evidence supports the claim in an argument.

Sufficiency

The amount of evidence needed to adequately support a claim.

Weakness in Argument

A flaw that is revealed if a text ignores opposing views.

Verbs of Analysis

Action verbs used to describe the construction of arguments (e.g., constructs, juxtaposes, implies).

Historical Context

The time period in which a text was written.

Authorial Context

Background information regarding the author of a text.

Publication Context

Where and in what form a text is published, affecting its credibility.

Signal Words

Words or phrases that indicate changes in argument structure (e.g., however, additionally).

Causation Indicators

Words that link evidence to conclusions (e.g., consequently, therefore).

Conclusion Indicators

Words that signal the summarization of arguments (e.g., ultimately, thus).

Research Paper Synthesis

Combining multiple perspectives for a comprehensive analysis.

Argument Critique

The process of analyzing an argument's logical structure for weaknesses.

Rhetoric

The art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing, especially the use of figures of speech.

Data Reliability

The trustworthiness of information based on the author's background and the source's reputation.

Argumentative Writing

A style of writing that presents a claim and supports it with evidence and reasoning.

Textual Analysis

Examination of a text's structure, meaning, and rhetoric to derive understanding.

Logical Flow

The coherence and clarity of the argument presentation.

Critical Thinking

Analyzing facts to form a judgment.

Persuasive Techniques

Methods used by authors to convince readers of their viewpoint.

Argumentative Strategies

Approaches used to support claims and connect evidence.

Source Evaluation

Assessing a source's credibility and reliability before using in research.