Aristotelian Argument Format

• Introduction

  (includes one or more of the following)

  1. Exordium: The beginning or opening words, designed to win attention and good will by introducing the case in an interesting and favorable light.
  2. Exposition or Narration: An account of the history of the case (what gave rise to the present problem; how the issues developed)
  3. Direct statement of the case (the proposition to be proved or defended--thesis).
  4. Division of Proofs: An outline of how the writer will present the evidence

  Body

  (includes the following)
  

• Confirmation of case by presenting evidence in its favor (includes one or more of the following):
  1. facts
  2. reasons
  3. statistics
  4. testimony of experts
  5. opinions supported by facts
  6. reports
  7. examples
  8. logical reasoning (inductive or deductive)
  9. analogy
• Acknowledge merit of opposing view
• Refutation of opposing views by demonstrating that they are:
  1. untrue
  2. illogical
  3. self-contradictory
  4. ambiguous (terms not clearly defined)
  5. dishonest ( a deliberate attempt to deceive)
  6. absurd

  Conclusion

  (includes one or more of the following)

  1. Recapitulation and summary of argument: to repeat is to reinforce and make certain readers have not misunderstood.
  2. Peroration: A final, heightened appeal for support.
  3. Propose a solution.