Building a Better Argument. Author: Joe Miller.

Critical Thinking
Whether it’s an ad for burger chains, the closing scene of a “Law & Order” spin-off, a discussion with the parents about your social life or a coach disputing a close call, arguments are an inescapable part of our lives. In this lesson, students will learn to create good arguments by getting a handle on the basic structure. The lesson will provide useful tips for picking out premises and conclusions and for analyzing the effectiveness of arguments.

Standards & Objectives

Learning objectives: 

In this lesson, students will:

  • Discover the basic terminology of arguments.
  • Learn strategies for reliably distinguishing between premises and conclusions.
  • Explore the differences between arguments and explanations.

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Understanding

Helpful Hints

Materials:

  • Monty Python, “The Argument Clinic”
  • Student Handout #1, Finding Premises and Conclusions
  • Student Handout #2, Argument Examples
  • Teacher Handout #1, Argument Examples

References

Contributors: