Determining the Effectiveness of the Reasons

Introduction

Definition of the Toulmin Method

Why Use the Toulmin Method?

Anticipated Objections and Rebuttal

Drawing Conclusions

Toulmin Worksheet

Toulmin Demonstration

Read Example Student Argument

Analyze the Claim

Analyze the Reasons

Analyze the Evidence

Analyze the Anticipated Objections and Rebuttal

Draw Conclusions from a Toulmin Analysis

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Determining the Effectiveness of the Reasons

If a reason is effective (or "good"), it invokes a value we can believe in and agree with. Value judgments, because they are by necessity somewhat subjective, are often the most difficult to make in arguments. It is, therefore, always a good idea to restate the value being invoked as clearly as possible in your own terms. Then you'll be able to evaluate whether or not the value is good in itself or worth pursuing.

View Example