Lecture 2 Argumentation 英语专业写作 教学课件.ppt

Lecture 2: Argumentation Definition Argumentation is the type of writing in which writers try to encourage readers to accept their point of view on a controversial issue. To argue means to provide reasons for or against something, especially clearly and in proper order. When you are for or against something and intend to make your point of view understood and accepted, you write argumentative essays. A piece of argumentative written work expresses the writer’s own idea on a subject instead of merely assembling facts. Exposition vs. Argumentation The purpose of exposition is to inform; the purpose of argumentation, on the other hand, is to convince. While an expository paper makes known something and explains it to make the reader understand, an argumentative essay tries to make the reader agree with its point of view and support it, to persuade him to change his mind or behavior, and to approve a policy or a course of action that it proposes. Speeches on polices, editorials of newspapers, articles on political or theoretical questions, and various proposals are often argumentative. Argumentation frequently makes use of the other three types of writing — description, narration, and above all exposition, for argumentation and exposition are very closely related— argumentation is actually exposition with the additional purpose of convincing or persuading. What type of writing should we write judging from the following titles? Examination – Harmful or Useful? A My Views on Examinations E Which Weighs More – School Brand or Major? A Why I Came to College E Should Class Attendance Be Required? A Laid-off Workers Have to Face Reality E Internet – a Coin of Two Sides E Internet – the Indispensable of Our Life E Should Euthanasia Be Legalized?