Unit 6 Study Guide: Position, Perspective, and Bias in Argumentation

Position

The specific stance or claim the writer makes on an issue.

Perspective

The lens through which the writer sees the world, shaped by their identity markers.

Purpose

The goal the writer hopes to achieve in their argument.

Bias

A writer's inclination or tendency toward a particular viewpoint.

Assumption

Unstated premises that the writer believes the audience also holds.

Warrant

The glue between the data and the claim in the Toulmin model of argumentation.

Claim

The main argument or assertion made by the writer.

Evidence

The facts, data, or information the writer presents to support their claim.

Toulmin Model

A framework for analyzing arguments consisting of claim, evidence, and unstated assumption.

Effectiveness of Argument

The extent to which an argument resonates with its specific intended audience.

Alignment of Values

The degree to which the writer's perspective matches the values of the audience.

Breadth of Evidence

The range of evidence the writer considers in their argument.

Tone

The attitude of the writer reflected in their choice of words and style.

Diction

The specific word choices made by the writer that contribute to tone.

SPACE CAT

A mnemonic for analyzing rhetorical situations focusing on Speaker, Purpose, Audience, Context, Exigence, Claim, and Tone.

Rhetorical Choices

The decisions a writer makes to effectively communicate their argument.

Shared Assumption

Basic beliefs that both the speaker and audience agree upon.

Conflicting Values

Differences in what the speaker and audience prioritize or believe.

Blind Spots

Elements or facts that the writer overlooks which are noticeable to the audience.

Gap Analysis

The evaluation of the space between the speaker and audience regarding understanding and beliefs.

Argumentation Structure

The framework of an argument consisting of Claim + Evidence + Assumption.

Perspective Analysis

The examination of how a writer's background influences their argument and reasoning.

Audience Consideration

Understanding who the audience is and what they value or assume.

Effective Argument

An argument that resonates well with its intended audience due to value alignment and clear evidence.

Ineffective Argument

An argument that fails to connect with the audience due to mentions of conflicting values or blind spots.

Rhetorical Analysis Mistake

Common errors made when interpreting the writer's argument or perspective.

Evaluation Criteria

Standards used to assess the effectiveness of an argument.