Warrant

Definition

A warrant is a statement that connects the evidence presented in an argument to the claim being made, demonstrating why the evidence supports that claim. It acts as the reasoning or justification behind the argument, helping the reader understand how the provided evidence leads to the conclusion. Warrants are essential in persuasive writing as they establish a logical link between the claims and supporting details.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Warrants help clarify how evidence supports claims by providing reasoning that makes the connection explicit to the reader.
2. A strong warrant enhances the persuasiveness of an argument by showing logical coherence and credibility.
3. In persuasive essays, it’s crucial to articulate warrants clearly so that readers understand the significance of the evidence presented.
4. Warrants can vary in strength; some may be widely accepted while others might require further justification or evidence to be convincing.
5. Identifying and addressing potential warrants helps strengthen an argument by ensuring all logical connections are solid and well-articulated.

Review Questions

• How does a warrant function in connecting evidence to a claim in persuasive writing?
  • A warrant serves as the bridge between evidence and a claim by explaining why the evidence supports that particular claim. It articulates the reasoning behind the argument, allowing readers to see the logical connection. Without a clear warrant, evidence may seem disconnected or insufficient to fully support the claim being made.
• In what ways can strong warrants improve the effectiveness of a persuasive essay?
  • Strong warrants enhance a persuasive essay by providing clear and logical reasoning that ties evidence to claims. They help readers understand not just what is being argued but also why it matters. By establishing these connections, warrants can make arguments more compelling and credible, ultimately leading to stronger persuasion.
• Evaluate how different types of warrants might impact the overall argument in a persuasive essay.
  • Different types of warrants can greatly impact an argument's effectiveness by influencing how readers perceive the strength of connections between claims and evidence. For instance, widely accepted warrants may lend immediate credibility to an argument, while more controversial ones may require additional support or elaboration. Evaluating these warrants can reveal underlying assumptions and help address potential weaknesses in an argument, ultimately shaping its persuasive power.

Related terms

claim: A claim is an assertion or statement that presents a viewpoint or argument, which needs to be supported by evidence.

evidence: Evidence refers to the facts, statistics, examples, or expert opinions that support a claim in an argument.

counterargument: A counterargument is an opposing viewpoint that challenges the main claim, which can be addressed to strengthen the original argument.