Lecture Notes: Critical Thinking and Argumentation in Writing

Introduction

• Understanding the differences between debates and arguments
• Importance of arguments in writing
• Presented by Arizona State University and Crash Course
• Lecturer: Yumna Samie

Critical Thinking

• Not about being critical in a negative sense
• Critical thinking is about analysis and judgement
• Can be seen as indispensable or crucial thinking
• Essential for developing arguments and improving writing

The Five Ws and the H

• A journalism tool for prompting critical thinking:
  • What happened?
  • Where did it happen?
  • When did it happen?
  • Who is involved?
  • Why did it happen?
  • How did it happen?
• Helps dig deeper into situations and develop thorough analyses

Example: "Writer in Action"

• Phil, a student, receives a disappointing grade
• Uses critical thinking to assess his poor performance:
  • Lack of time and rushed work were factors
  • Solution: Prioritize time management before deadlines

Argumentation in Writing

• Argumentation is about engaging, evaluating, and creating ideas
• Not necessarily a conflict with a winner and loser
• Aim to invite collaboration and understanding instead of opposition

Structure of an Argument

• Position and reasons make up an argument
• Critical thinking evaluates if reasons support the position
• Example: Arguing "Tomato basil is the best soup"
  • Reasons: Smooth texture, good pairing with garlic bread
  • Critical thinking can challenge the validity of these reasons

Toulminian Model of Argumentation

• Developed by Stephen Toulmin
• Breaks arguments into:
  • Claim: Position or idea to be proved
  • Grounds: Reasons, facts, evidence supporting the claim
  • Warrants: Connections between claims and grounds
• Important to ensure warrants are robust and justified

Tips for Stronger Arguments

• Restricting Claim’s Scope:
  • Avoid categorical language (e.g., all, none, always)
  • Example: "Most dogs are friendly" vs. "All dogs are friendly"
• Stating Warrants Explicitly:
  • Clarify the connection between evidence and claim
  • Example: "If smoke is coming from a house, it might be on fire"

Conclusion

• Critical thinking and argumentation are intertwined and essential
• Key strategies include using the Five Ws and the H and breaking down arguments into claims, grounds, and warrants
• Next session focus: Evaluating the sturdiness of arguments

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Note: This lecture was part of "Study Hall: Composition" produced by Arizona State University and Crash Course. Subscribe for further educational content.