Section 02 — Argument & Persuasion (LBS 105)

Section 02 — Argument & Persuasion

Course: LBS 105 – Writing & Communication I

Learning Session

Explore These Materials: 1. Read (45 min) — Aristotle, Rhetoric (Book I, on persuasion); Perelman & Olbrechts‑Tyteca, The New Rhetoric (short excerpt).
2. Watch (60 min) — Argument Mapping: Claims, reasons, objections; Rhetorical Devices (ethos/pathos/logos).
3. Listen (30 min) — Skeptics’ Guide to Evidence (segment on bias and burden of proof).
4. Reflect While Engaging — Identify claims, reasons, evidence, and assumptions in a current op‑ed.

Key Quote Box

“_____________”

Practice

  1. Claim + Reasons — Draft a 200‑word claim with 3 reasons; tag each as fact, value, or policy.
  2. Counterargument + Rebuttal — Steelman the best counterargument; rebut fairly.
  3. Persuasive Piece — 600–800 word essay using ethos/pathos/logos intentionally; mark where each appears.
  4. Edit for Clarity — Cut 15%; highlight improved clarity; track one fallacy you removed.
  5. Reflection — What changed when I charitably represented the opposing view?

Hard Problem (Optional)

Choose a controversial topic; write two 150‑word arguments for opposing sides that a reasonable person from each side would endorse. Note the constraints that kept you honest.