2. The Toulmin Method of logic for presenting an argument
Stephen Toulmin (1922 –
2009) was credited as one
of the founding father’s of
argumentation theory.
(O’Grady). His model for
logically presenting an
argument is one of the
most common forms used
in organizing and
presenting one’s data. His It’s all about Logic…
steps are simple; Claim,
Data, Warrant, Backing,
Counterclaim, and
Rebuttal. (Weida)
3. Claim
This step is pretty basic for
any kind of document. This
is where the thesis and the
basis of the paper is
formed. (Weida)
- “Space, the final frontier…”
- “Really?! Prove it.”
4. Data
This is where all the
evidence and material for
the argument is presented .
(Weida)
- No, not this Data…
5. Warrant
Also known as a bridge, this
is the explanation as to why
or how the data supports
the claim, and the
underlying assumption that
connects your data to the
claim. (Weida)
- Its all beginning to come together.
6. Backing
Also referred to as the
foundation, this is where
one provides additional
logic or reasoning to
support the warrant as
necessary. (Weida)
- Now this is what I call back-up…
7. Counterclaim
As with any good argument,
the counterclaim, the claim
that negates or disagrees
with the thesis/claim
initially stated is included.
(Weida)
- He tasks me! He tasks me…
- Yes, yes your turn to make your
argument.
8. Rebuttal
And finally, evidence that in
turns negates or disagrees
with the counterclaim
stated previously. (Weida)
- Space, the final frontier… but with a
suave accent.
9. Citation
• Weida, Stacey. Stolley, Carl. “Organizing your Argument”. Purdue OWL.
The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. Web.
10/31/2012. http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/588/03/
• O’Grady, Jane. “Stephen Toulmin obituary”. The Guardian. Guardian News
and Media. January 10, 2010. Web. 10/31/2012.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/theguardian/2010/jan/10/stephen-toulmin-
obituary
• All Star Trek references are attributed to the Star Trek franchise, and used
simply for the fun of the theme.
