Download argument abstract - Lone Star College

ARGUMENT ABSTRACT
Before you actually sit down to compose your Formal Argument Essay, there are some
elements of that essay and for that essay that should be sketched out ahead of time in some
detail. This is the four-part Abstract I would like you to complete and hand in, based on a
controversy of your own choosing:
I.
A SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF THE CONTROVERSY:
o
II.
In this section you should let the reader know what the main Points of
Disagreement are among those at odds in regard to the topic you’ve chosen.
For example, if you write about abortion, you would certainly outline the
“pro-life” position and the “pro-choice” position, as well as any other
differences of opinion or value that may exist between the factions involved
in the controversy. KEY POINT: Remain DESCRIPTIVE; I don’t want your
point of view until we get to part 2.
THESIS STATEMENT:
o
Your thesis should consist of two parts:


III.
PERSONALITY PROFILE OF THE ADVERSARIAL AUDIENCE:
o
IV.
a POLICY STATEMENT which tells the reader what should or
shouldn’t be done; what should or shouldn’t be changed;
one or more CAUSE AND EFFECT STATEMENTS that tell the
reader exactly which consequences will occur as a result of adopting
(or not adopting) the policy. In order to persuade the adversary, the
consequences must seem favorable not only to you, but to them.
Sketch in as much detail as possible the “ethos” of those readers who are
AGAINST your position. You should describe what they believe and
disbelieve; what they value and what they disvalue. Be detailed—this section
tells me how to play the “Devil’s Advocate.”
THE 4-6 STEP (or more) AGREEMENT  DISAGREEMENT LADDER:
o
Because the audience you address in an argument is disagreeable by nature,
you must find an initial “point of agreement,” a place where you and the
enemy share common ground, in order to start your argument. Moreover,
your argument must progress in a controlled movement toward greater DISagreement. In this part of the Abstract, construct a four-to-six step set of
increasingly disagreeable statements which will move your adversarial
audience along with the logic of your argument. Make sure not to get too
controversial too soon.