in an argumentative essay a counterclaim is

Consider the following thesis for a short paper that analyzes different approaches to stopping climate change:

Climate activism that focuses on personal actions such as recycling obscures the need for systemic change that will be required to slow carbon emissions.

The author of this thesis is promising to make the case that personal actions not only will not solve the climate problem but may actually make the problem more difficult to solve. In order to make a convincing argument, the author will need to consider how thoughtful people might disagree with this claim. In this case, the author might anticipate the following counterarguments:

• By encouraging personal actions, climate activists may raise awareness of the problem and encourage people to support larger systemic change.  
• Personal actions on a global level would actually make a difference.  
• Personal actions may not make a difference, but they will not obscure the need for systemic solutions.  
• Personal actions cannot be put into one category and must be differentiated.

In order to make a convincing argument, the author of this essay may need to address these potential counterarguments. But you don’t need to address every possible counterargument. Rather, you should engage counterarguments when doing so allows you to strengthen your own argument by explaining how it holds up in relation to other arguments. 

How to address counterarguments 

Once you have considered the potential counterarguments, you will need to figure out how to address them in your essay. In general, to address a counterargument, you’ll need to take the following steps.

• State the counterargument and explain why a reasonable reader could raise that counterargument.  
• Counter the counterargument. How you grapple with a counterargument will depend on what you think it means for your argument. You may explain why your argument is still convincing, even in light of this other position. You may point to a flaw in the counterargument. You may concede that the counterargument gets something right but then explain why it does not undermine your argument. You may explain why the counterargument is not relevant. You may refine your own argument in response to the counterargument.  
• Consider the language you are using to address the counterargument. Words like but or however signal to the reader that you are refuting the counterargument. Words like nevertheless or still signal to the reader that your argument is not diminished by the counterargument. 

Here’s an example of a paragraph in which a counterargument is raised and addressed.

Image version

The two steps are marked with counterargument and “counter” to the counterargument: COUNTERARGUMENT/ But some experts argue that it’s important for individuals to take action to mitigate climate change. In “All That Performative Environmentalism Adds Up,” Annie Lowery argues that personal actions to fight climate change, such as reducing household trash or installing solar panels, matter because change in social behavior can lead to changes in laws. [1]  

COUNTER TO THE COUNTERARGUMENT/ While Lowery may be correct that individual actions can lead to collective action, this focus on individual action can allow corporations to receive positive publicity while continuing to burn fossil fuels at dangerous rates.

Where to address counterarguments 

There is no one right place for a counterargument—where you raise a particular counterargument will depend on how it fits in with the rest of your argument. The most common spots are the following:

• Before your conclusion This is a common and effective spot for a counterargument because it’s a chance to address anything that you think a reader might still be concerned about after you’ve made your main argument. Don’t put a counterargument in your conclusion, however. At that point, you won’t have the space to address it, and readers may come away confused—or less convinced by your argument.
• Before your thesis Often, your thesis will actually be a counterargument to someone else’s argument. In other words, you will be making your argument because someone else has made an argument that you disagree with. In those cases, you may want to offer that counterargument before you state your thesis to show your readers what’s at stake—someone else has made an unconvincing argument, and you are now going to make a better one. 
• After your introduction In some cases, you may want to respond to a counterargument early in your essay, before you get too far into your argument. This is a good option when you think readers may need to understand why the counterargument is not as strong as your argument before you can even launch your own ideas. You might do this in the paragraph right after your thesis. 
• Anywhere that makes sense  As you draft an essay, you should always keep your readers in mind and think about where a thoughtful reader might disagree with you or raise an objection to an assertion or interpretation of evidence that you are offering. In those spots, you can introduce that potential objection and explain why it does not change your argument. If you think it does affect your argument, you can acknowledge that and explain why your argument is still strong.

[1] Annie Lowery, “All that Performative Environmentalism Adds Up.” The Atlantic . August 31, 2020. https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2020/08/your-tote-bag-can-mak…

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A Guide to Rebuttals in Argumentative Essays

4-minute read

• 27th May 2023

Rebuttals are an essential part of a strong argument. But what are they, exactly, and how can you use them effectively? Read on to find out.

What Is a Rebuttal?

When writing an argumentative essay , there’s always an opposing point of view. You can’t present an argument without the possibility of someone disagreeing.

Sure, you could just focus on your argument and ignore the other perspective, but that weakens your essay. Coming up with possible alternative points of view, or counterarguments, and being prepared to address them, gives you an edge. A rebuttal is your response to these opposing viewpoints.

How Do Rebuttals Work?

With a rebuttal, you can take the fighting power away from any opposition to your idea before they have a chance to attack. For a rebuttal to work, it needs to follow the same formula as the other key points in your essay: it should be researched, developed, and presented with evidence.

Rebuttals in Action

Suppose you’re writing an essay arguing that strawberries are the best fruit. A potential counterargument could be that strawberries don’t work as well in baked goods as other berries do, as they can get soggy and lose some of their flavor. Your rebuttal would state this point and then explain why it’s not valid:

Read on for a few simple steps to formulating an effective rebuttal.

Step 1. Come up with a Counterargument

A strong rebuttal is only possible when there’s a strong counterargument. You may be convinced of your idea but try to place yourself on the other side. Rather than addressing weak opposing views that are easy to fend off, try to come up with the strongest claims that could be made.

In your essay, explain the counterargument and agree with it. That’s right, agree with it – to an extent. State why there’s some truth to it and validate the concerns it presents.

Step 2. Point Out Its Flaws

Now that you’ve presented a counterargument, poke holes in it . To do so, analyze the argument carefully and notice if there are any biases or caveats that weaken it. Looking at the claim that strawberries don’t work well in baked goods, a weakness could be that this argument only applies when strawberries are baked in a pie.

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Step 3. Present New Points

Once you reveal the counterargument’s weakness, present a new perspective, and provide supporting evidence to show that your argument is still the correct one. This means providing new points that the opposer may not have considered when presenting their claim.

Offering new ideas that weaken a counterargument makes you come off as authoritative and informed, which will make your readers more likely to agree with you.

Summary: Rebuttals

Rebuttals are essential when presenting an argument. Even if a counterargument is stronger than your point, you can construct an effective rebuttal that stands a chance against it.

We hope this guide helps you to structure and format your argumentative essay . And once you’ve finished writing, send a copy to our expert editors. We’ll ensure perfect grammar, spelling, punctuation, referencing, and more. Try it out for free today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a rebuttal in an essay.

A rebuttal is a response to a counterargument. It presents the potential counterclaim, discusses why it could be valid, and then explains why the original argument is still correct.

How do you form an effective rebuttal?

To use rebuttals effectively, come up with a strong counterclaim and respectfully point out its weaknesses. Then present new ideas that fill those gaps and strengthen your point.

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How Counterclaim Your Position in an Argumentative Essay

by  Antony W

April 7, 2022

When it comes to an argumentative essay , you have to consider both sides of the argument.

Sure, the goal of the assignment is to take a side on an issue and give evidence to support your stand.

However, if you fail to focus on both sides of the argument, you’ll appear narrowly minded and your essay will be less effective.

So to write a good argumentative essay that can convince your audience or instructor to keep reading to learn more about the issue under investigation, you should include a counterclaim in the paper.

A counterclaim is one of the elements of an argument that shows you invested your time and effort to investigate the two sides of an issue before taking your own stand on the topic.

What is a Counterclaim in an Argumentative Essay?

A counterclaim is simply one or more arguments that oppose the thesis statement   of your argument. 

Before you arrive at a counterclaim, you need to make sure your thesis explains what you claim you want to prove and how you’d like to do it.

You don’t include a counterclaim in the thesis part. Rather, the thesis should explicitly explain that you’ve done your research and you're convinced that the viewpoint of the opposing side is either invalid or weak.

By including a counterclaim in your essay, you create for yourself an opportunity to give a solid response to a reader’s arguments even before they finish reading the paper.

You end up with an essay that’s not only interesting to read but also one that strengthen your position.

How to Deal With Counterclaims in Your Essay

Counterclaims can be quite challenging to write.

On the one hand, you have your position to defend and you have to do so using all the evidences that you can use.

On the other hand, you have the opposing view to consider and include in the essay.

The question is, how do you consider the counterclaims without weakening your position ?

You can do so in two ways.

The first option is to note and point out the obvious flaws in the opposing arguments. This will show that, while you recognize the opposing views, they have a weakness that your point of view is trying to address.

By identifying the obvious flaws in a counterclaim, you’ll strengthen your own point of view on the issue.  The second option is where you agree with the counter argument, but you take this a step further by providing a new evidence that can either weaken or contradict the counterargument.

Again, this will go a long way to strengthen your position and convince your audience to agree with you even if the subject in question is sensitive or controversial. 

The Common Types of Counter Arguments in Argumentative Essays

There are 5 types of counterclaims that you’ll encounter as you work on your argumentative essay.

It’s important to understand each before we look at how you can respond to the counter claims.

• Your audience (your reader) may come up with an evidence that could potentially weaken your position. Find out what the evidence can be. Cite and examine the evidence and then conclude by responding to it.
• You can have a situation where an audience draws a different conclusion from the examples you present. If so, you should find a unique conclusion and then respond to it accordingly.
• Sometimes a reader is highly likely to question the claim of your argument . In such a situation, it’s best to identify those claims, explain, and then give a solid response.
• You can have an instance where someone disagrees with your claim. If this is the case, you should explain their perspective in your argument and then give a reasonable response.
• If a reader can give a different explanation for an issue, you should figure out what that explanation might be and then give a completely different explanation yourself.

With that out of the way, let us look at how you can respond to a counterclaim in a way that makes your essay stand a chance to win an argument.

How to Respond to Counterclaims

There are a few response strategies that you can use to respond to counterclaims, but you don’t have to use all of them in the same paper.

The most important thing to do is to choose a strategy that makes the most sense for a particular counterargument.

• If you find yourself nodding in agreement with some of the arguments that your reader or audience present, present their points and then give a challenge to oppose their points.
• There may be an instance where a counterclaim provides an evidence different from what you have in your own argument. In such a case, it would be best if you give the reader a reason not to accept the evidence that the counter argument presents.
• Some arguers will come up with counterclaims that threaten to weaken your argument. In this case, you need to give a thorough explanation on the how or why the evidence they’ve presented doesn’t interfere with or invalidate your claim.

Hire Our Team to Write Your Argumentative Essay

While counterclaims are expected in an argument, responding to them can be quite challenging. So if you feel like the task is too overwhelming to handle even after reading this guide, feel free to get in touch with us and we’ll help you write a high quality argumentative essay fast.

  Get in touch with your professional team of writers and get your argumentative essay completed on time

  At Help for Assessment, our goal is to see you excel in your academics.

Part of contributing to that vision is by helping you write essays that grab attention, spike reading interest, and earn you the grades that you deserve. 

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

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How To Write A Counterclaim For A Successful Result

You might have probably heard about a counterclaim or written one that did not go well with you, which is why you are here. We understand your frustrations and anxiety about writing counterclaims, which is why we developed this comprehensive article.

Here is what to expect:

An in-depth explanation of what a counterclaim is The necessity of a counterclaim How to write a good counterclaim Characteristics of an excellent counterclaim Structure and formatting of counterclaims

After reading this post, you will have all the information you need to craft an award-winning paper. We will not leave anything to chance until you know how to write a counterclaim like a top-class student!

Table of Contents

What is a counterclaim in writing, why is a counterclaim necessary, how to write a counterclaim from scratch, detailed guide on how to start a counterclaim paragraph, how to write rebuttal, characteristics of a good counterclaim, example of a good counterclaim.

A counterclaim refers to an argument that opposes the author’s claim. The writer presents the claim and then refutes it, giving reasons why others should not take up the contrary view and agree with their initial stand.

The counterclaim opposes the thesis statement in your essay. So, this is how a counterclaim comes about:

• You first introduce the topic in the introductory paragraph
• Create a thesis statement in the last sentence
• Write a counterclaim that rebuts the initial argument

Many students fail to appreciate the fact that there is a difference between a claim and a counterclaim. The claim demonstrates your position of argument or the assertion of a fact, whereas a counterclaim negates a specific claim by refuting it.

Any top-rated argumentative will always have a counterclaim which disagrees with and disapproves of a claim. Such a claim also provides reasoning that further clarifies a particular argument. The two main purposes of a counterclaim are as follows:

It enhances the credibility of the author: A strong argumentative essay will utilize the rhetorical appeal of ethos. With a counterclaim, a writer will prove that they researched extensively on the topic and are not trying to hide possible information from the audience. It also allows the writer to provide a rebuttal to the essay. The rebuttal is used to disprove the counterclaim within the writer’s argument.

For instance, if the claim is that the government should ban gun use, the counterclaim would be that it should not ban it because it infringes on human rights. There should always be reasons and evidence for you to have a successful counterclaim.

In the next few lines, we will provide all you need to know about starting a counterclaim and delivering the best! So stay tuned.

Every successful essay begins with thorough background research on the topic of discussion. Exploring all possible angles of your essay before embarking on the writing process is recommended—those who end up with a good counterclaim put in extra hours in research and extensive consultation.

You can read thousands of articles on how to write a counterclaim, but without the right background research strategies, that great essay might amount to nothing. So, if you want to crack your counterclaim paragraph like a guru, here are excellent tips for you:

Understand your topic Explore what previous authors have done on it Identify the knowledge gaps Seek facts to defend your claim

Once you have all the information needed for your topic, nothing will stand in the way of you writing a top-notch paper that will impress your professor. When you have factual proof of every statement you make in your essay, you will have a non-biased and credible paper. That means that the sources you use should always be credible and directly relevant to the topic of your essay.

After stating all the base knowledge you need about counterclaims, we now want to dive into the practical part of writing a counterclaim argument. Let’s explore how to write counterclaims by looking at the elements needed:

• The main counterclaim: It states an opposing argument to the claim.
• The evidence includes a previous position to show that others welcome the view.
• An explanation entails providing reasons why people hold the particular view you presented.
• A rebuttal: Here, you will explain the weakness of the counterclaim and present show why your original position is correct.

The process might be challenging initially, but with the right tools and expert advice, you will be up and running in minutes. A counterclaim is included in argumentative writing to address the opposite side of the argument and provide a rebuttal.

The process of writing an outstanding counterclaim in an argumentative essay is as follows:

Where do you put a counterclaim in an essay? Every top-ranking essay begins with a catchy intro comprising statistics or a rather dramatic intro to a particular problem. The thesis statement follows, and the then claim comes on stage. Therefore, the counterclaim comes after you have backed up your claims with evidence and further arguments. How long is the counterclaim? It depends on the number of counterclaims and the overall length of your essay. A typical counterclaim should be at least one paragraph long. Remember that you are not just stating it but explaining why it is so. That is why most guides on writing a counterclaim and rebuttal will recommend either writing them in one paragraph or separately. What different points of view do others hold? You should always understand all the possible points that may arise to counter your claim. Researching why people oppose your claim will give you room for a balanced and reliable paper. It requires a creative mind to determine how your claim goes against the common view. How to introduce a counterclaim now: The general rule is that you should present the contrary opinion fairly. You will only be ready to craft a brilliant counterclaim once you dive into the possible arguments that others who oppose your thesis make. Sincerely present the contrary opinion fairly.

Always remember to use transitions when moving on to present your counterclaim. Just like in a debate, the contrary side will come after the proposers have made their submissions. Therefore, you can begin your counterclaim paragraphs with the following:

• On the contrary, side
• Critics say that

Having presented the other side, you will detail why people also hold that view. It is where the evidence comes in to solidify your counterclaim.

It is advisable to have it in a similar paragraph where your counterclaim is, but if that is not possible, begin it in a new paragraph. However, always remember to keep it short while bringing out the following:

• How the contrary position in your counterclaim is false or weak.
• Presenting the advantages in the counterclaim but giving reasons why the opposite view may not hold water.
• Describe how your main argument outweighs the risks in the counterclaim.

After introducing the counterclaim, you have to discuss why the counterclaim is incorrect. You can start the rebuttal in several ways, such as:

Despite this information Nevertheless However

It is your opportunity to prove why the contrary view is wrong.

You cannot achieve this milestone without considering all sides of the argument first. That is why most researchers in college and university take their time before beginning the writing process. It provides a base for the facts and opinions and saves the time one will spend completing the argumentative essay.

Acknowledging the valid points of the other side is necessary for any form of argumentative writing. This practice eliminates the thought of narrow-mindedness from the reader’s point of view, which may make your essay less effective.

Instead of making your argument look weak, a counterclaim will strengthen your essay by proving that you thoughtfully considered all possible angles before writing your essay. Nobody will accuse you of bias or inadequate research when you have a formulated counterclaim.

A good counterclaim, therefore:

Acknowledges what the opposing side says Provides evidence from the opposing side Refutes the point of view and evidence

It is also crucial to state that when you have more than one claim in your paper, there is always an option of writing a counterclaim for each. You are not limited to presenting the different counterclaims in the same essay. However, follow the structure outline above in terms of length and format.

Additional characteristics of a world-class essay include:

• Objectivity in the language use
• Fairness in the diction
• Evidence to back up the counterclaim
• Fairness in the rebuttal

By validating any underlying concerns, you eliminate room for doubt or error. Remember also to explain why your argument works in that context.

Below is a brief example of what a good counterclaim can look like, from professional dissertation writers :

“On the other hand, some students say homework presents unnecessary stress and pressure. This point of view makes sense because the article states that too much homework may be overwhelming for students, which is why most of them do not complete it. However, homework does not harm the student because the article also says that homework is necessary to test students’ understanding after classroom learning. Therefore, even though homework may cause stress and pressure on the student, it does not harm the student in any way.”

From the example, you can note the following:

Phrases that can begin a counterclaim:

On the other hand, some people say Admittedly, some people say Certainly, some people say

Phrases to refer to the initial claim:

However Nevertheless On the other hand

Phrases to bring paragraph to a conclusion:

Thus Therefore As a result

A good counterclaim will always give you an edge over your competitors in any case.

Writing A Counterclaim Can Be Very Easy

Writing an all-inclusive counterclaim is not a big deal if you have all the facts rights – our writing service and master thesis help offers top-notch assistance with an incredible team of writers and research gurus. We will help you identify winning arguments and provide you with the best rebuttals.

Do not second guess what you will score in your counterclaim essay when you can try out our custom thesis writing service today. Make your pick today and improve your score effortlessly.

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Organizing Your Argument

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How can I effectively present my argument?

In order for your argument to be persuasive, it must use an organizational structure that the audience perceives as both logical and easy to parse. Three argumentative methods —the  Toulmin Method , Classical Method , and Rogerian Method — give guidance for how to organize the points in an argument.

Note that these are only three of the most popular models for organizing an argument. Alternatives exist. Be sure to consult your instructor and/or defer to your assignment’s directions if you’re unsure which to use (if any).

Toulmin Method

The  Toulmin Method  is a formula that allows writers to build a sturdy logical foundation for their arguments. First proposed by author Stephen Toulmin in  The Uses of Argument (1958), the Toulmin Method emphasizes building a thorough support structure for each of an argument's key claims.

The basic format for the Toulmin Method  is as follows:

Claim:  In this section, you explain your overall thesis on the subject. In other words, you make your main argument.

Data (Grounds):  You should use evidence to support the claim. In other words, provide the reader with facts that prove your argument is strong.

Warrant (Bridge):  In this section, you explain why or how your data supports the claim. As a result, the underlying assumption that you build your argument on is grounded in reason.

Backing (Foundation):  Here, you provide any additional logic or reasoning that may be necessary to support the warrant.

Counterclaim:  You should anticipate a counterclaim that negates the main points in your argument. Don't avoid arguments that oppose your own. Instead, become familiar with the opposing perspective.   If you respond to counterclaims, you appear unbiased (and, therefore, you earn the respect of your readers). You may even want to include several counterclaims to show that you have thoroughly researched the topic.

Rebuttal:  In this section, you incorporate your own evidence that disagrees with the counterclaim. It is essential to include a thorough warrant or bridge to strengthen your essay’s argument. If you present data to your audience without explaining how it supports your thesis, your readers may not make a connection between the two, or they may draw different conclusions.

Example of the Toulmin Method:

Claim:  Hybrid cars are an effective strategy to fight pollution.

Data1:  Driving a private car is a typical citizen's most air-polluting activity.

Warrant 1:  Due to the fact that cars are the largest source of private (as opposed to industrial) air pollution, switching to hybrid cars should have an impact on fighting pollution.

Data 2:  Each vehicle produced is going to stay on the road for roughly 12 to 15 years.

Warrant 2:  Cars generally have a long lifespan, meaning that the decision to switch to a hybrid car will make a long-term impact on pollution levels.

Data 3:  Hybrid cars combine a gasoline engine with a battery-powered electric motor.

Warrant 3:  The combination of these technologies produces less pollution.

Counterclaim:  Instead of focusing on cars, which still encourages an inefficient culture of driving even as it cuts down on pollution, the nation should focus on building and encouraging the use of mass transit systems.

Rebuttal:  While mass transit is an idea that should be encouraged, it is not feasible in many rural and suburban areas, or for people who must commute to work. Thus, hybrid cars are a better solution for much of the nation's population.

Rogerian Method

The Rogerian Method  (named for, but not developed by, influential American psychotherapist Carl R. Rogers) is a popular method for controversial issues. This strategy seeks to find a common ground between parties by making the audience understand perspectives that stretch beyond (or even run counter to) the writer’s position. Moreso than other methods, it places an emphasis on reiterating an opponent's argument to his or her satisfaction. The persuasive power of the Rogerian Method lies in its ability to define the terms of the argument in such a way that:

• your position seems like a reasonable compromise.
• you seem compassionate and empathetic.

The basic format of the Rogerian Method  is as follows:

Introduction:  Introduce the issue to the audience, striving to remain as objective as possible.

Opposing View : Explain the other side’s position in an unbiased way. When you discuss the counterargument without judgement, the opposing side can see how you do not directly dismiss perspectives which conflict with your stance.

Statement of Validity (Understanding):  This section discusses how you acknowledge how the other side’s points can be valid under certain circumstances. You identify how and why their perspective makes sense in a specific context, but still present your own argument.

Statement of Your Position:  By this point, you have demonstrated that you understand the other side’s viewpoint. In this section, you explain your own stance.

Statement of Contexts : Explore scenarios in which your position has merit. When you explain how your argument is most appropriate for certain contexts, the reader can recognize that you acknowledge the multiple ways to view the complex issue.

Statement of Benefits:  You should conclude by explaining to the opposing side why they would benefit from accepting your position. By explaining the advantages of your argument, you close on a positive note without completely dismissing the other side’s perspective.

Example of the Rogerian Method:

Introduction:  The issue of whether children should wear school uniforms is subject to some debate.

Opposing View:  Some parents think that requiring children to wear uniforms is best.

Statement of Validity (Understanding):  Those parents who support uniforms argue that, when all students wear the same uniform, the students can develop a unified sense of school pride and inclusiveness.

Statement of Your Position : Students should not be required to wear school uniforms. Mandatory uniforms would forbid choices that allow students to be creative and express themselves through clothing.

Statement of Contexts:  However, even if uniforms might hypothetically promote inclusivity, in most real-life contexts, administrators can use uniform policies to enforce conformity. Students should have the option to explore their identity through clothing without the fear of being ostracized.

Statement of Benefits:  Though both sides seek to promote students' best interests, students should not be required to wear school uniforms. By giving students freedom over their choice, students can explore their self-identity by choosing how to present themselves to their peers.

Classical Method

The Classical Method of structuring an argument is another common way to organize your points. Originally devised by the Greek philosopher Aristotle (and then later developed by Roman thinkers like Cicero and Quintilian), classical arguments tend to focus on issues of definition and the careful application of evidence. Thus, the underlying assumption of classical argumentation is that, when all parties understand the issue perfectly, the correct course of action will be clear.

The basic format of the Classical Method  is as follows:

Introduction (Exordium): Introduce the issue and explain its significance. You should also establish your credibility and the topic’s legitimacy.

Statement of Background (Narratio): Present vital contextual or historical information to the audience to further their understanding of the issue. By doing so, you provide the reader with a working knowledge about the topic independent of your own stance.

Proposition (Propositio): After you provide the reader with contextual knowledge, you are ready to state your claims which relate to the information you have provided previously. This section outlines your major points for the reader.

Proof (Confirmatio): You should explain your reasons and evidence to the reader. Be sure to thoroughly justify your reasons. In this section, if necessary, you can provide supplementary evidence and subpoints.

Refutation (Refuatio): In this section, you address anticipated counterarguments that disagree with your thesis. Though you acknowledge the other side’s perspective, it is important to prove why your stance is more logical.  

Conclusion (Peroratio): You should summarize your main points. The conclusion also caters to the reader’s emotions and values. The use of pathos here makes the reader more inclined to consider your argument.  

Example of the Classical Method:  

Introduction (Exordium): Millions of workers are paid a set hourly wage nationwide. The federal minimum wage is standardized to protect workers from being paid too little. Research points to many viewpoints on how much to pay these workers. Some families cannot afford to support their households on the current wages provided for performing a minimum wage job .

Statement of Background (Narratio): Currently, millions of American workers struggle to make ends meet on a minimum wage. This puts a strain on workers’ personal and professional lives. Some work multiple jobs to provide for their families.

Proposition (Propositio): The current federal minimum wage should be increased to better accommodate millions of overworked Americans. By raising the minimum wage, workers can spend more time cultivating their livelihoods.

Proof (Confirmatio): According to the United States Department of Labor, 80.4 million Americans work for an hourly wage, but nearly 1.3 million receive wages less than the federal minimum. The pay raise will alleviate the stress of these workers. Their lives would benefit from this raise because it affects multiple areas of their lives.

Refutation (Refuatio): There is some evidence that raising the federal wage might increase the cost of living. However, other evidence contradicts this or suggests that the increase would not be great. Additionally,   worries about a cost of living increase must be balanced with the benefits of providing necessary funds to millions of hardworking Americans.

Conclusion (Peroratio): If the federal minimum wage was raised, many workers could alleviate some of their financial burdens. As a result, their emotional wellbeing would improve overall. Though some argue that the cost of living could increase, the benefits outweigh the potential drawbacks.