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