5.6 Elements of Persuasion - Counterargument

Learning Targets

By the end of this lesson, you should be able to say YES to the following questions.

• Can you understand the elements of persuasive writing?
• Can you identify the importance of these elements in creating quality persuasive writing?

Countearguments

You might think your topic is terrific, but there will definitely be people out there who do not. 

You need to be ready for an opposing argument. You need to think about what someone who disagrees with you would find wrong with your reasons.

The goal is to use these questions to help strengthen your writing. It helps you find holes in your reasoning so you can patch it up and make your work even stronger.

Not all persuasive text features a counterargument. Often in shorter forms, like ads, email requests, or letters, it is not included. It is still a good process to go through to improve your writing.

Go to your Persuasive Writing Journal and do Journal #7: Totally Disagree!

Why Have a Counterargument?

Here is a look at why you should include a counterargument in your persuasive text.

Counterargument Example

Here is an example. You will be asked to think of opposing ideas that you personally may not agree with. Being able to think of opposing ideas, even when you don't agree with them, will help you to improve your thinking, conversations, and writing. Before looking at examples, be sure you understand what a counterargument and a rebuttal both involve:

• A counterargument is an argument (point/reason/view/evidence) that your opponent would make.
• A rebuttal is when you respond directly to your opponent's argument/point to explain/show how/why they are wrong.

Take a look at an example:

My Position: People need to exercise every day to improve their body and state of mind.

The Counterargument: I think one of the counterarguments will be that people are so busy in today's world that they have no time to do exercise.

My Rebuttal: Some people will say that they are juggling so many things already in their life that they do not have time to squeeze in any physical fitness. This can definitely feel daunting, but don't despair!  The trick is to be creative and start small. Instead of taking the elevator up to your office, you can walk up the stairs. On your lunch break, set your watch for two minutes and go for a quick walk outside or for a stroll down the hallways.

To practise counterarguments and rebuttals, complete Counter Attack! in your Learning Guide.

Audience & Counterargument

Here are some tips about where to put a counterargument in your writing.