Critical Thinking and Writing Styles

Critical Thinking

• Critical thinking involves questioning and analyzing information.
• Example questions include personal preferences like: "Would you rather be kind and stupid or rude and smart?" or "Would you rather be beautiful or intelligent?"

Argumentative Essay

• An argumentative essay presents a stance on an issue and provides evidence to support the claim.
• Argumentative writing and persuasive writing are sometimes used interchangeably.

Argumentative vs. Persuasive Writing

• Argumentative Writing:
  • Focuses on identifying the topic and researching it.
  • The goal is to get the reader to recognize the validity of your side of the argument.
  • Tone is calmer.
  • Supports claims with evidence.
  • Acknowledges opposing viewpoints.
• Persuasive Writing:
  • Focuses on identifying the topic and choosing a side.
  • The goal is to get the reader to agree with your opinion.
  • Tone is more emotionally charged and aggressive.
  • May ignore counterclaims.
  • May make claims without evidence.

Terms Related to Argumentative Essays

• Issue: The topic or subject being discussed.
• Claim: The writer's position on the issue.
• Argument: The reasoning and support given for the claim.
• Evidence: The facts, data, or examples supporting the argument.
• Counterargument: An opposing viewpoint to the writer's claim.
• Rebuttal: The writer's response to the counterargument.
• Pro: Supporting arguments.
• Con: Opposing arguments.

Example: Bicycle Commute

• Issue: Should people be encouraged to travel by bicycle rather than by car?
• Claim: People should be encouraged to travel by bicycle rather than by car.
• Argument: Maintaining a bicycle is less expensive than a car.
• Evidence:
  • Bike parts are cheaper than car parts.
  • Car repairs often require a mechanic, and labor costs are high.
  • Bikes are often repairable by the owner.
  • Cars require expensive yearly registration.
• Counterargument: Riding a bicycle might increase travel time and decrease productivity.
• Rebuttal: Traveling by bicycle avoids rush hour and traffic jams.
• Conclusion: Encourage bicycle use for saving money and time, avoids traffic jams, and promotes a healthier lifestyle.

Components of an Argumentative Essay

• Introduction: Introductory paragraph at the beginning of the essay, often called the "gateway."
• Body: Paragraphs presenting the facts and arguments.
• Refutation/Counterargument: Arguments that disprove earlier arguments to support your main claim.
  • Conclusion: Rephrases the thesis statement and major points to summarize the main arguments.

Example: Why Cycling?

• It is better to use a bicycle for commuting instead of a car because it's cheaper, fuel-free, and promotes a healthy body.
• It is a faster and more efficient method than driving a car, as it avoids traffic jams and delays.

Important Note

• Not all statements are claims. All claims are statements, but not all statements are claims. This is a key distinction for argumentative writing.