Assignments and questions that invite critical reading, critical thinking, and original argumentative writing appear at the end of every chapter. Students learn to identify and develop their own unique styles of argument and to recognize how their styles may have been influenced by fan-Lily background, gender, ethnic background, or country of origin. Also included are international students' perspectives on the argument styles of their countries. Many readings in the book are by authors of varied cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Explanations of the elements and structure of argument include the Toulmin model of argument, the classical modes of appeal, the traditional categories of claims derived from classical stasis theory, and the rhetorical situation.
Theory is integrated and translated into language that students can easily understand and apply.
For example, students learn to apply theory to recognize and analyze the parts of an argument while reading and to develop and structure their own ideas while writing. Audience analysis includes the concepts of the familiar and the unfamiliar audience as well as Chaim Perelman's concept of the universal audience. Productive invention strategies help students develop ideas for papers. Library and online research is presented as a creative activity that students are invited to enjoy. Workable strategies for research and note taking are provided.