developing an argument : constructing an argument louise livesey academic skills adviser this...
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Developing an Argument : Constructing an Argument
Louise Livesey
Academic Skills Adviser
This workshop will:− Revisit what an argument is− Suggest ‘types’ of argument that an assignment
can be built around− Offer strategies to apply evidence and theory into
your written work
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1.Types of arguments to construct
2.Using evidence to support your argument
3.Using theory in your writing
Today’s Plan
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• Evidencing is more than one source • Check your reading list• Keep a record
Think, read, write
1.Types of argument to construct
Analysis Critical Thinking
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• Agreeing and presenting reliable evidence to support the position taken.
• Rejecting but again using reliable evidence to do this. (A counter-argument with each individual claim in the argument in question is ‘countered’ by another claim).
• Conceding that an existing argument/point of view has merits, but needs to be qualified in certain respects, and stating what these are.
• Proposing a new argument/point of view, or reformulating an existing one, so that the new version makes a better explanation for the situation under discussion.
• Reconciling by bringing a new perspective to bear on the topic.
• Connecting or synthesizing different ideas, so new approaches and arguments/points of view can be brought to bear on the subject.13 January, 2015 Academic Skills Advice4
1.Types of argument to construct
Graphic representation of argument: agreement
Waitrose better
Agree
ConvenienceShorter queues
RangeChocolate brands
QualityFresher bread
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1.Types of argument to construct
Graphic representation of argument: rejection
Sainsbury's betterReject
Cheaper
Basics cheaper: bread, butter,
milk
Longer opening times
Open earlier and later during
the week
TALKING POINT
Points/beliefs
Evidence
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1.Types of argument to construct
Activity 1: Workshops v Instant Advice Study Skills Workshops Instant Action one-to-one
Conceding Can learn from students on different courses
Can only learn from advisor
Not enough personal attention Advisor provides undivided attention to student
Have long time to work through specific problem
Short time to work through more than one problem
Have to wait for when scheduled Can access help without waiting
Proposing new argument Do not deliver study skills as students should have skills already
Reconciling Make a group appointment for longer time with co-students
Connecting or synthesizing Study skills could be delivered in subject sessions at appropriate times
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1.Types of argument to construct
Use examples… • Which highlight the most significant or far-reaching
implications• To illustrate different aspects of your argument• From a range of sources, e.g. journal articles,
books, and reports • To support general arguments. • Use empirical evidence, i.e. evidence collected via
systematic and rigorous observation• Use maps, diagrams and numerical data (in
appropriate assessments, i.e. not essays but reports and dissertations)
2.Using evidence to support your argument
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DO NOT PANIC
3.Using theory in your writing
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• Competing theories are not equal – different theories appeal to different kinds of evidence, so different theories are ‘useful’ in different contexts.
• Do not lump together good bits of different theories into one ‘super theory’ as they will contradict each other.
Stand outside to see a theory’sstrengths and weaknesses
4.Using theory in your writing
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Summary Undertake critical analysis before you start writing Are clear about your position on the issue (if asked
to choose a stance) Take multiple perspectives – THE BEST ANSWERS
DO THIS: IT IS A MARK WINNER Are clear about your conclusion (if asked to be
definite) Use appropriate empirical or theoretical evidence
to support your points/beliefs ‘Stand outside’ a theory to see its strengths and
weaknesses
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Analyse your own work –
be your own critic
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ReferencesClip art – spectacles/question
Cottrell, S. (2013) The Study Skills Handbook. 4th Ed. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan.
dogfaceboy (2007) Slick flame stitch. [online] Available at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/dogfaceboy/377499363/ [Accessed 21.7.2014]
Redman, P. (2001) Good Essay Writing. 2nd Ed. London: Sage Publications Ltd.
The Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. (2014) Available at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pierre_Bourdieu#Bourdieu.27s_theory_of_class_distinction [Accessed 21.7.2014]
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University of Surrey. (2014) Writing Skills. Guildford: University of Surrey. [online] Available at:
http://libweb.surrey.ac.uk/library/skills/writing%20Skills%20Leicester/page_01.htm [Accessed 6.3.2014]
Van den Brink-Budgen, R. (2010) Critical Thinking for Students. 4th Ed. Oxford: How To Books Ltd.
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References
Academic Skills Advice Service• Where are we? Chesham Building B0.23. Give us
a call or come speak to us Monday- Friday 9am-5pm (closing at 4pm Fridays).
• Who am I? Louise, the dedicated workshop adviser.
• Who can help me with study and writing skills? Lucy and Russell run Instant Study Skills Advice sessions every weekday and Writing Skills Clinics three times a week. You can also access self-help resources on our webpage.
• Who can give me maths advice? Helen and Michael specialise in Maths support for students though clinics and pre-booked appointment.
• How do I get in touch? Email: [email protected] Telephone: 01274 236849
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Any questions?
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