Arguments
An argument is a chunk of reasoning used to prove a point.
Argument Basics
Claim: A statement you want to prove.
Warrant: The reason why a claim is true.
Impact: The reason why your argument matters.
Example:
Claim: Dogs are gross.
Warrant: They drink from the toilet bowl.
Impact: Dogs lick your face and toilet water has harmful bacteria.
Arguments in Cases
Contention: A claim used to support your side of the resolution.
Card: A block of evidence from a source with a citation used to prove a contention.
Analysis: A chunk of writing that explains why the judge should care.
Analysis: This evidence proves that eating more blueberries will help you live a longer and healthier life.
Cause-and-Effect Arguments
Claim: Your statement that supports your side of the resolution.
Link: How the resolution changes the world or causes an outcome.
Impact: Why the change or outcome is good or bad.
Example:
Resolution: You should do debate.
Claim (Negative): Doing debate will harm your ability to have a romantic relationship.
Link: Doing debate will absorb hours and hours of your time.
Impact: Focusing so much time on debate will push anyone interested in you away for good.