| Identifying the Argument of an Essay |
Now let's practice
the visual construction of a more complex argument. You'll be able
to construct the argument visually just as you did with the
earlier example in the pop-up box. Point the arrow of your mouse
to the symbol, click-and-drag the symbol to the space on the
right to construct the visual argument. Start with the symbol for
the conclusion. Go back to
the first
example
if you need to refresh your memory on the procedure.
Here's the example you'll construct
visually:
| Exercise | (1) We shouldn't buy that new building set for Jimmy because (2) he hasn't learned to take care of the toys he already has. (3) Just yesterday he shoved all his toys into the closet or kicked them under his bed. (4) Besides, I don't think he's old enough yet for that set. (5) The box says it's for 8 to 10-year-olds, and Jimmy is only 4. |
This example above is a
bit more complex than the first visual example where we simply
had a conclusion supported by two separate reasons. Here you may
find a conclusion
supported by a reason which in turn is supported by another
reason. Reasons
which are supported by other reasons form mini-arguments within
the main argument.
Let's take the following argument as an example:
Conclusion: (1) John shouldn't run for
treasurer.
Reasons: (2) He doesn't know how to
handle money.
(3)
Just yesterday he deposited money into the wrong account.
Here we have (1) supported by (2), and (2) in turn is supported
by (3). Using our standard
visual symbol set, this is what the argument looks like visually:
![]() |
The blue arrow/triangle symbol has been used to
represent (2) because if you look at (2) in relation to the
conclusion (1), then (2) functions as a reason ( thus the arrow
part of
the symbol). On the other hand, if you look at (2) in relation to
(3), then (2) functions as a
mini-conclusion ( thus the triangle part of the symbol ) which is
supported by (3).
Before you begin constructing the argument given above, try to
identify which reasons function as mini-conclusions so that you
can select the blue arrow/triangles for them as you go through
the click-and-drag process. Now you're ready to begin the visual
construction of the argument at the top of the page. Just click
on "tutorial."
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Last revision: June 2,1998
Send comments or additional
sites to Frank Edler fedler@mccneb.edu