WHAT, WHY, HOW?
Most logical arguments follow a "what-why-how" pattern. It's all about what you think, why you think it, and how you know you are right.
- "What" stands for "What do you think?" This is your opinion, main idea, or CLAIM.
- Example: The Nintendo Wii is the best game console.
- “Why” stands for “Why do you think this?” These are the reasons you think what you think.
- Example: It is more popular than other game consoles like Xbox or PS3.
- “How” stands for “How do you know this?” This is the set of examples, explanations, and evidence that make up your support.
- Example: It has sold more units than Xbox and PS3 combined.
Really focus on the HOW by using the 3 E’s for support: EXAMPLES, EXPLANATIONS, and EVIDENCE
This idea came from Teaching That Makes Sense: www.ttms.org