Argumentative Text | Active Summary

Objectives

1. Understand the purpose of an argumentative text, identifying how it seeks to persuade or convince the reader about a point of view or idea.

2. Identify and analyze common argumentative strategies in texts, such as the use of examples, comparisons, statistical data, and testimonies.

Contextualization

Did you know that the ability to argue effectively is not only an essential communication skill, but also a powerful tool for promoting social change and influencing decisions? From political debates to academic thesis defenses, the capacity to articulate and sustain arguments is valued in almost every aspect of life. Mastering argumentative texts not only improves your writing skills but also enhances your ability to critically analyze the world around you, questioning and better understanding the diverse opinions and viewpoints we encounter daily.

Important Topics

Purpose of an Argumentative Text

The purpose of an argumentative text is to persuade the reader or listener to adopt a specific point of view or take a specific action. This type of text presents arguments that support a thesis or idea, using strategies such as examples, data, and comparisons to convince the target audience. It is essential to differentiate an argumentative text from an expository text, as the former not only informs but also seeks to influence or change perspectives.

• Thesis identification: Every argumentative text has a central thesis that is the main idea defended. Clearly identifying this thesis is crucial to understanding the purpose of the text.

• Logical structure: Argumentative texts are often structured to present the strongest arguments first, followed by counterpoints and refutations, culminating in a conclusion that reinforces the initial thesis.

• Tone and style: The tone of an argumentative text is generally persuasive, and the style may vary depending on the target audience and the author's objective, being more formal or informal.

Argumentation Strategies

Argumentation strategies are the tools used to persuade and convince in the argumentative text. These include the use of evidence, such as data, examples, or testimonies, as well as rhetorical techniques like repetition, antithesis, and hyperbole, which help reinforce or highlight arguments. Mastering these strategies is fundamental to the effectiveness of written and oral communication.

• Use of evidence: Presenting concrete data and clear examples strengthens arguments, providing them with credibility and support.

• Rhetorical techniques: These linguistic tools are used to manipulate and persuade the audience, appealing to emotions or logic, depending on the desired effect.

• Adapting to the audience: Good argumentation considers the knowledge and interests of the target audience, adapting the tone and content to maximize persuasion.

Critical Reading of Argumentative Texts

Developing critical reading skills involves the ability to analyze argumentative texts in a way that understands not only what is said but how it is said and why it is said in a particular way. This includes identifying the strategies used by the author to persuade, as well as evaluating the validity of the evidence presented.

• Identifying strategies: Recognizing the use of argumentation strategies in the text, such as word choice, text structure, and appeals to emotions.

• Evaluating evidence: Questioning the quality and relevance of the evidence presented, looking for possible biases or lack of information.

• Developing critical opinion: Critical reading helps form a well-founded opinion based on careful analysis of information and arguments.

Key Terms

• Argumentative Text: A type of text whose main goal is to convince or persuade the reader about a point of view or a specific action.

• Thesis: The main proposition that an argumentative text defends. It is essential for the clarity and effectiveness of the argumentation.

• Evidence: Data, examples, or facts that are used to support the arguments of a text, increasing its credibility and persuasive power.

• Rhetorical Techniques: Linguistic and discursive tools that are used to influence or persuade the audience, including resources like metaphor, antithesis, and irony.

To Reflect

• How can the ability to write and understand argumentative texts influence your daily interactions and personal decisions?

• In what way can the critical reading of argumentative texts aid in opinion formation and civic engagement?

• What is the importance of recognizing rhetorical techniques in argumentative texts to be a critical consumer of information?

Important Conclusions

• Mastering the art of arguing in a text is not just about expressing opinions but about persuading and convincing in a sustained way. Identifying the thesis, structuring logical arguments, and using solid evidence are crucial skills that you have developed.

• Argumentation strategies, such as the use of evidence, rhetorical techniques, and adapting to the audience, are vital not only in academic writing but also in everyday situations like debates and discussions.

• The critical reading of argumentative texts is a powerful tool that helps better understand the information presented and form well-founded opinions. This skill is essential for being a critical consumer of information.

To Exercise Knowledge

Write an argumentative text defending or refuting the idea that technology makes people more isolated. Use examples from your daily life and from the research you conduct on the topic. After writing, ask a colleague to read and provide feedback, discussing how you could strengthen your arguments.

Challenge

Create a short video (2-3 minutes) where you present an argument about a topic that is important to you. Use argumentation strategies that we learned, such as data, examples, and rhetorical techniques. Share the video with your friends or on your social network and see the reactions and comments that arise!

Study Tips

• Practice writing argumentative texts regularly, choosing topics that spark your interest. This will make the process more engaging and effective for improving your argumentation skills.

• Read opinion articles, editorials, and essays from different sources to observe how authors use argumentation strategies. Try to identify the techniques that catch your attention the most and why.

• Participate in debate clubs or debate teams at school or online. This will not only strengthen your argumentation skills but also give you the opportunity to practice critical thinking and effective communication.