Lesson 1: So You Think You Can Argue
Learning Objectives
The student will use a guided notetaking worksheet to:
- Define argument, counterargument, and supporting argument.
- Identify supportng arguments for a main argument.
- Distinguish between types of arguments.
- Discuss hypothetical situations where persuasive writing skills are useful.
Overview
Prepare students for persuasive writing by introducing them to the concept of making an argument. Students discover there’s a difference between “arguing” and making an argument in support of a position, and that making an argument is a learned skill that doesn’t depend on how you feel about an issue.