Contemporary Argumentation and Rhetoric

An introductory course in argumentation and rhetoric gives students the tools with which to improve their critical thinking abilities and with which to communicate that thinking in an effective manner. Effective critical thinking is necessary to understand ourselves and the world. Without effective critical thinking, we cannot make reasonable decisions about what to believe and about how to act. As individuals, our own decisions construct our lives and shape the lives of those around us. As members of family, group, community, and of the broader society and culture, our productive participation requires an ability to communicate our thinking.

Contemporary Argumentation and Rhetoric analyzes the interplay of effective critical thinking and the ability to communicate our thoughts. The publication presents and develops three main models of argument: the contemporary Toulmin model, the deductive model of argument, and the inductive model of argument.

In addition to presenting three main models of argument and introducing the basics of debating, the course package includes interactive activities such as Interactive Flash Cards, Quizzes / Exams, and other classroom activities.