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Argument Construction Worksheet

The document outlines the essential elements of a successful argument, which include a claim, warrant, data, and impact. It emphasizes the importance of these elements in both verbal and written argumentation for clarity and understanding. Additionally, it provides an example of each element related to the legalization of marijuana to illustrate their application.

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boazrnovik
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56 views2 pages

Argument Construction Worksheet

The document outlines the essential elements of a successful argument, which include a claim, warrant, data, and impact. It emphasizes the importance of these elements in both verbal and written argumentation for clarity and understanding. Additionally, it provides an example of each element related to the legalization of marijuana to illustrate their application.

Uploaded by

boazrnovik
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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NATIONAL SPEECH & DEBATE ASSOCIATION

ARGUMENT CONSTRUCTION
Elements of an Argument
Arguments may take many forms, but successful arguments share a specific set of elements. A complete
argument contains:
 a claim, or the basic idea of the argument;
 a warrant, or an explanation why the claim is true;
 data, or evidence; and
 an impact, or a reason why the argument is important.
These elements should be present in all forms of argumentation. They are especially important in verbal
argumentation because the audience must be able to follow the argument. In written argumentation,
readers may absorb and process the argument at their own pace; if they are confused, they can reread a
passage or sentence.
Structure of an Argument

Claim The main point of the argument; what the debater


seeks to prove true.

Warrant The logical justification for the claim; why the


claim is true.

Data The information or evidence used to bolster the


warrant.

Impact The reason the argument should matter to the


audience.

Example of Each Element of an Argument

Claim Legalizing marijuana will increase government


revenues.

Warrant Governments can place taxes on legalized


marijuana.

Data Business Week, March 29, 2009—Legalized


marijuana, if sold in stores at the same prices as
sold on the street, would yield $40 to $100 billion
in new tax revenue.

Impact In a country where both federal and state


governments run massive deficits, and where
programs from welfare to education are being cut
across the board, we need to do whatever we can
to increase revenue streams.

1
NATIONAL SPEECH & DEBATE ASSOCIATION

ARGUMENT CONSTRUCTION
INSTRUCTIONS: In the space provided, list your proposed topics for debate. For each topic, list the
claim, warrant, three pieces of data, and an impact.

Argument Topic #1:

Claim

Warrant

Data 1.
2.
3.

Impact

Argument Topic #2:

Claim

Warrant

Data 1.
2.
3.

Impact

Argument Topic #3:

Claim

Warrant

Data 1.
2.
3.

Impact

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