Unit 8: Reflections on the Other
Unit 8: Reflections on the Other
Creative Expression and Synthesis
Creative Expression and Synthesis
In this interactive unit, students refine their argumentative skills by mastering the Toulmin Model, one of the most widely applied structures for constructing, analyzing, and evaluating arguments. Unlike abstract theory, the Toulmin approach breaks argumentation into practical, accessible components: claims, grounds, warrants, backing, rebuttals, and qualifiers. This framework provides students with a strategic lens to dissect complex arguments and build their own with clarity and precision.
The second half of the unit transitions from theory to practice through formal academic debate. Students engage in structured, evidence-based debates where they apply Toulmin principles in real time. Debates challenge students to anticipate opposition, craft logical rebuttals, and respond under pressure—building critical thinking, public speaking, and quick reasoning skills. This capstone argumentation experience prepares students for academic, civic, and professional discourse where logic, structure, and persuasion converge.
Break down arguments using the Toulmin Model, identifying key components and weaknesses.
Construct logically sound, evidence-based arguments using Toulmin principles.
Anticipate and refute counterarguments effectively through structured rebuttal.
Develop public speaking and rapid response skills in formal debate settings.
Evaluate arguments for clarity, coherence, credibility, and logical structure.
Formal Debate with Written Preparation and Outline
Students research, outline, and participate in structured academic debates, presenting arguments with clear Toulmin components.
Toulmin Diagramming of Debate Argument
Visual breakdown of the student’s own or an opponent’s argument, mapping claims, evidence, warrants, and rebuttals.
Timed Rebuttal (Written and Delivered during Debate)
Students craft and deliver rapid, logically sound rebuttals to opposing arguments, demonstrating critical thinking and clarity under pressure.
TBD
Intelligence Squared Debates
High-level debates on contemporary issues, modeling argument structure, evidence use, and strategic rebuttal.
Rhetoricity Podcast (Selected Episodes)
Explorations of argumentation, rhetoric, and persuasive strategy in real-world contexts.
CrashCourse: Argumentation and Debate Series
Overview of Toulmin argument structure, logical reasoning, and public debate techniques.
Real Debate Footage: National Speech & Debate Association (NSDA)
Competitive debate examples showcasing Toulmin elements, strategic argumentation, and effective rebuttals.
YourLogicalFallacyIs.com
Visual guide to spotting logical fallacies, applicable to preparing debates and critiques.
"The Uses of Argument" — Stephen Toulmin (Excerpts or Summary)
Foundational text introducing the Toulmin Model in accessible terms.
Toulmin Model Handouts and Visual Diagrams (Purdue OWL, University Writing Centers)
Practical, student-friendly tools for learning and applying argument structure.