Writer refutes the opponent by showing what is wrong or invalid. Writer states the opponents' claim and points out what is sounds about the reasons used to prove it. Writer builds opponents' character perhaps at expense of his or her own. Writer proceeds in an explanatory fashion to analyze the conditions under which the position of either side is valid. Pathos Writer uses emotional language to strengthen the claim.
Writer uses descriptive, dispassionate language to cool emotions on both sides.
Goal Writer tries to change opponent's mind and thereby win the argument. Writer creates cooperation, the possibility that both sides might change, and a mutually advantageous outcome. This chart is taken directly from Nancy Woods' Perspectives on Argument Return to top of page . Actual In-Class Format for the . . . Side B shows that Side A's position is understood by restating it, then shows in which contexts and under what conditions the opponent's position may be valid.