Structure and Function of Argument: Introduction to Critical Thinking from edX

Life is full of arguments—you encounter them everyday in your social and professional circles. From casually discussing what to have for dinner tonight with your family to passionately debating the best candidate to vote for in the upcoming election, arguments are a method to better educate ourselves and understand others.

All arguments share an underlying mapping structure that backs a main claim with supporting reasons, sometimes including counterpoints to anticipated objections. In order to present an argument that will clearly communicate your perspective, you must first understand the basic structure of any argument and develop your logic and critical thinking skills.

In Structure and Function of Argument: Introduction to Critical Thinking, you will engage in dynamic practice exercises to develop the ability to recognize, analyze, and construct arguments you encounter on a daily basis. You will consider the structure of an argument, focusing on the underlying organization of claims and reasoning. You will determine if the reasons support the author or speaker’s main claim, build well-constructed responses, and grow your overall English language skills. You will also test your listening skills by recognizing how things like logical fallacies, conflicting points of view, and controversial subjects can impact effective communication.

Using a tool called “argument mapping,” you will visually diagram the structure of an argument to identify how reasons connect and function in an argument. You will then apply your learnings and test your own arguments using this tool – allowing you to gauge the overall quality of your arguments and take steps to make them stronger.

By the end of the course, you will have built a toolkit to engage in more constructive conversations and to actively listen to better understand others’ points of view.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Explore the shape and structures of arguments you encounter daily, helping improve your overall communication and english language skills.
Learn how to visually map an argument, analyzing, evaluating, and optimizing the strength of your argument along the way.
Become a better listener by seeking to understand others’ perspectives and engaging in respectful discussion and disagreement.
Experiment with philosophical thought experiments to build your argumentation skills.

Build the tools to improve your logical reasoning and emotional intelligence by understanding how conflict and tension can impact communication.
Improve your ability to think critically, seek to understand underlying assumptions, and identify biases – allowing you to create more compassionate, compelling, and convincing arguments.
Learn how to regulate your emotional response to differing points of view, expressing genuine curiosity and inquisitiveness as a means to learn from the other party.

Explore the shape and structures of arguments you encounter daily, helping improve your overall communication and english language skills.
Learn how to visually map an argument, analyzing, evaluating, and optimizing the strength of your argument along the way.
Become a better listener by seeking to understand others’ perspectives and engaging in respectful discussion and disagreement.
Experiment with philosophical thought experiments to build your argumentation skills.
Build the tools to improve your logical reasoning and emotional intelligence by understanding how conflict and tension can impact communication.
Improve your ability to think critically, seek to understand underlying assumptions, and identify biases – allowing you to create more compassionate, compelling, and convincing arguments.
Learn how to regulate your emotional response to differing points of view, expressing genuine curiosity and inquisitiveness as a means to learn from the other party.

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Teaches argument mapping, which is a visual method used to analyze complex reasoning and is often used in academic and professional settings

Develops critical thinking skills, which are essential for academic success, professional advancement, and informed decision-making in everyday life

Explores the impact of logical fallacies and conflicting viewpoints on communication, which is crucial for effective collaboration and conflict resolution

Examines the structure of arguments, which helps learners to identify assumptions, biases, and weaknesses in reasoning

Strengthens listening skills, which are important for understanding diverse perspectives and engaging in respectful discussions

Experimentation with philosophical thought exercises may require learners to engage with abstract concepts and hypothetical scenarios

Reviews summary

Introduction to critical thinking and argument

According to learners, this course offers a clear and accessible introduction to critical thinking and the fundamental structure of arguments. Many found the explanation of core concepts like claims, reasons, and fallacies to be particularly helpful for building foundational understanding. A highly praised aspect is the inclusion and practical application of the argument mapping tool, which students describe as a valuable technique for visually analyzing and constructing arguments. Learners appreciate how the course provides practical skills applicable to daily life and professional communication. While recognized as a strong starting point suitable for beginners, some with prior knowledge noted its introductory level. Overall, it is considered a well-structured and beneficial course for enhancing logical reasoning.

Excellent starting point for newcomers.

"As someone completely new to critical thinking, this course was an ideal introduction."

"If you have some background in philosophy or logic, parts of this might feel introductory."

"It covers the basics thoroughly, making it perfect for beginners, though perhaps not deep enough for advanced learners."

"The course is very accessible even if you've never studied logic or argumentation before."

Skills are applicable to daily situations.

"I've already started using these techniques to understand discussions better in my personal life and at work."

"Applying the concepts to real-world examples made the learning stick. Very practical skills taught."

"It helped me listen more effectively and understand different points of view in everyday arguments."

"I feel more equipped to analyze media and conversations critically after taking this course."

Fundamentals of argument structure explained well.

"The course explained the fundamentals of arguments, claims, and reasons in a very clear and easy-to-grasp way."

"I finally understood logical fallacies better after taking this course. The definitions were precise."

"The structure of the course helped build my understanding step by step, starting with the basics."

"Definitions and examples for key terms were very clear and helped me apply them correctly."

Valuable technique for analyzing arguments.

"The argument mapping tool was incredibly useful for breaking down complex ideas and seeing how reasons connect."

"Mapping arguments visually really solidified my understanding of structure. I found it a great practical skill."

"I wasn't sure about the mapping at first, but it turned out to be a very effective way to analyze arguments."

"Using the mapping tool provided a clear method to evaluate the strength and weakness of arguments."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Structure and Function of Argument: Introduction to Critical Thinking with these activities:

Review 'Critical Thinking' by Brooke Moore and Richard Parker

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Gain a strong foundation in critical thinking principles before starting the course.

View Critical Thinking and Formative Assessments on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of 'Critical Thinking' by Moore and Parker.
Read the chapters on argument structure and common fallacies.
Complete the practice exercises at the end of each chapter.

Review Basic Logic Concepts

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Strengthen your understanding of fundamental logic concepts to better grasp argument analysis.

Browse courses on Deductive Reasoning

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Find online resources or textbooks covering basic logic.
Review definitions and examples of deductive and inductive reasoning.
Familiarize yourself with common logical fallacies.

Practice Argument Mapping

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Reinforce your understanding of argument structure through repetitive mapping exercises.

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Find examples of arguments in articles or speeches.
Use argument mapping software or tools to diagram the arguments.
Identify the main claim, reasons, and counterarguments.

Four other activities

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Participate in Argument Debates

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Sharpen your argumentation skills through interactive debates with peers.

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Form a study group with other students.
Choose debate topics and assign sides.
Research and prepare arguments for your assigned side.
Engage in respectful and constructive debates.

Write a Short Argumentative Essay

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Apply your critical thinking skills by constructing a well-reasoned argument on a topic of your choice.

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Choose a controversial topic you feel strongly about.
Research and gather evidence to support your claim.
Write a clear and concise argumentative essay.
Revise your essay to address potential counterarguments.

Review 'Thank You for Arguing' by Jay Heinrichs

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Learn persuasive techniques to enhance your argumentation skills.

View Aristotle's Guide to Self-Persuasion: How... on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of 'Thank You for Arguing' by Jay Heinrichs.
Read the chapters on rhetorical techniques and strategies.
Identify examples of these techniques in real-world arguments.

Create an Argument Map Presentation

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Solidify your understanding of argument mapping by creating a presentation to teach others.

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Choose a complex argument to map.
Create a detailed argument map using appropriate software.
Develop a presentation explaining the argument map.
Present your argument map to a group of peers or colleagues.

Career center

Learners who complete Structure and Function of Argument: Introduction to Critical Thinking will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Debate Coach

A debate coach guides students in developing strong arguments, a skill directly addressed in this course. Debate coaches teach students to construct well-reasoned arguments, identify flaws in reasoning, and present their ideas effectively. This course will help a debate coach to better understand the underlying structure of arguments and develop innovative approaches that help students practice their skills. The course provides a tool called “argument mapping” which allows for the visualization of an argument's structure, and can allow the coach to better analyze the strengths and weaknesses of a debate, as well as helping the coach to teach their students to do the same. The exercises in the course, which help to recognize, analyze, and construct arguments, can also inform a coach's own strategies and lesson planning. Furthermore, by exploring how bias can impact effective communication, this course can help those who wish to enter this career to teach their students to be aware of bias.

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Lawyer

Lawyers construct and analyze arguments daily, making a course focused on the structure and function of arguments particularly relevant. Critical to success in this profession is the ability to create compelling arguments, anticipate counterarguments, and assess the strength of evidence. This course focuses on the understanding of the structure behind any argument and helps to build the skill of critical thinking, and so could assist a lawyer by sharpening their analytical skills, and ultimately, their success in the courtroom. The course also addresses the need to understand conflicting points of view, which can enable a lawyer to appreciate the viewpoints of the opposing side, and to build stronger arguments to address these points. The course emphasis on understanding bias can also help a lawyer to not only seek out bias in their opponents' arguments, but in their own too, fostering a more fair and just legal system.

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Policy Analyst

Policy analysts research and evaluate existing policies, and create new ones, and so are heavily involved in argumentation. They must make cogent arguments to defend their policy proposals and to assess the arguments of others. Because this course focuses on how to recognize, analyze and construct arguments, it may be beneficial to help a policy analyst in their day to day work. The course teaches the importance of understanding counterpoints in order to ensure a convincing and effective argument, and the course's tool of "argument mapping" can help an analyst to visualize the complexities of a policy argument. This course helps build communication skills and an understanding of the underlying assumptions and biases that can impact effective communication, all of which could help a policy analyst to communicate their perspectives clearly and persuasively, and to be aware of their own biases.

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Journalist

Journalists need to be able to analyze information critically, identify biases, and construct clear and compelling narratives, therefore this course may be helpful. This course focuses on understanding the structure of arguments and how to recognize, analyze, and construct these arguments, which may lead to the development of a journalist's critical thinking skills. A journalist also needs to understand potentially conflicting points of view and be able to express these viewpoints clearly and respectfully. This course focuses on developing this skill, as well as building the ability to regulate emotional responses to differing points of view, which is crucial when interviewing or reporting on sensitive topics. By learning to identify biases, it may be beneficial in ensuring that a journalist's reporting is objective and accurate.

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Editor

Editors must evaluate the arguments and points presented by writers, and so a course focused on argumentation may be useful. Editors must assess if the presented arguments are clear, well-supported, and free from logical fallacies. This course may help an editor by refining their understanding of the structure of arguments, the method of "argument mapping" allows for an editor to visualize and identify the strengths and weaknesses of the writer's arguments. By encouraging the understanding of both the underlying assumptions of biases, the course can further help an editor to promote a more fair and balanced presentation of information. By emphasizing the importance of effective communication, this course can help editors to also improve their own written and verbal explanations.

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Public Relations Specialist

Public relations specialists must communicate persuasively and construct arguments to promote their company or client, therefore a course in argumentation can may be useful. Whether it is a press release, statement or handling a potential crisis, a public relations specialist must be able to craft messaging that resonates with stakeholders and address potential objections. This course helps to develop the ability to recognize, analyze, and construct arguments, which can be beneficial to those in this profession. By learning about the importance of understanding conflicting points of view and how to engage in respectful discussion, this course will help a public relations specialist to more effectively navigate diverse opinions and perspectives. Furthermore, the ability to identify biases, and an understanding of how they can influence communication, may be useful when crafting authentic, transparent, and compelling messaging.

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Teacher

Teachers often need to construct arguments for why certain teaching methods or policies are effective and beneficial, therefore this course may be helpful. They must also be able to evaluate the arguments of others, including those of their students, peers, or school administrators. This course emphasizes the importance of analyzing, constructing and understanding arguments, which can be beneficial to a teacher's development. By encouraging respect for opposing points of view, a teacher may be able to promote open and inclusive classroom discussions. The course also helps to improve communication and interpersonal skills, which can help a teacher to more effectively interact with students, parents, and colleagues. By encouraging the regulation of emotional responses, teachers can model productive conflict resolution, and create a more positive and productive learning environment.

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Management Consultant

Management consultants use critical thinking skills to solve complex business problems and recommend solutions to clients, therefore a course in argumentation may be useful. They often develop persuasive presentations that rely on their ability to construct strong justifications for their strategies. This course focuses on the structure of arguments and how to analyze and construct them, which directly applies to this career. This course teaches how to regulate emotional responses to differing points of view, which can help a management consultant to navigate conflicts in a professional matter. The course also highlights the importance of understanding bias, which may help a management consultant provide objective and unbiased advice. The course can therefore help to develop the skills necessary for a management consultant to excel in their field.

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Grant Writer

Grant Writers must create arguments that persuade funding organizations to provide financial support for their projects, therefore a course in argumentation could be valuable to this profession. This course focuses on understanding the structure behind an argument, and how to identify strengths and weaknesses in a piece of writing. This ability to identify strengths and weaknesses in arguments may help a grant writer to construct compelling narratives that showcase the needs and value of their projects. The course also encourages identifying biases and underlying assumptions, which may help a grant writer to be aware of their own biases when crafting their arguments. The course will help to improve communication skills, which are important for writing clear and concise proposals that resonate with a funding committee, and to communicate the value of their projects.

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Market Research Analyst

Market research analysts must analyze market data and trends to make informed recommendations and present these to stakeholders, therefore a course focused on argumentation may be valuable. They must evaluate the evidence and create rational arguments for their claims. This course helps to improve critical thinking skills as well as the understanding, analysis and construction of arguments. By exploring the impact of biases, those in this profession may be able to ensure objectiveness in their reports. The course also promotes the development of communication skills, which are necessary to convey their findings persuasively to stakeholders, and this can improve the effectiveness of their recommendations.

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Human Resources Specialist

A human resources specialist must often mediate conflicts, explain policies, and advocate for employees, and so must understand argumentation and communication. This course teaches the skill of being able to recognize and analyze arguments, and this may prove helpful to those who must evaluate the validity of employee concerns or grievances. The course helps to promote the understanding of opposing points of view, which may help an HR specialist to navigate conflicts successfully. With this course's emphasis on bias awareness, an HR specialist may become more objective in their judgement when handling employee issues. Overall, this course will improve essential communication skills and create a more effective HR professional.

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Business Analyst

Business analysts must analyze data, identify problems, and propose solutions to improve business operations, and so argumentation skills may be useful. This course focuses on the structure of arguments, and so may assist a business analyst in making their case more persuasive. The skills learned in this course, such as identifying biases and underlying assumptions, may be helpful in ensuring a business analyst's findings are objective. Because this course also promotes the understanding of conflicting points of view, a business analyst may be better equipped to receive feedback and improve their recommendations. The course also improves communication skills, which will benefit the way a business analyst presents their findings to stakeholders.

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Technical Writer

Technical writers need to articulate complex information clearly and logically, therefore a course that discusses the structure of arguments may be relevant. This course will improve skills in communication and critical thinking. Because of the focus on the structure of arguments, the skills this course imparts may help a technical writer to create comprehensive and easy to follow documentation and manuals for their target audience. This course also stresses the importance of understanding opposing points of view, which may be useful in adapting manuals for the specific needs of different users. This course also promotes better listening skills, which may improve the technical writer's communication with subject matter experts, leading to better documentation.

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Software Developer

Software development can be a collaborative process where ideas are debated and evaluated, therefore this course, which focuses on understanding arguments, may be of some use. While the primary work of a software developer is coding, the skills of critical thinking and logic taught in this course may improve their capacity to identify flaws in their code, as well as the capacity to better understand differing points of view and collaborate effectively with their colleagues. The course teaches how to analyze, evaluate and construct arguments, which could be useful to those who wish to debate the relative merits of different software development solutions. The course's emphasis on improving logic and reasoning skills may help a software developer to write more efficient and effective code.

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Librarian

Librarians help patrons navigate research and evaluate the credibility of different sources, therefore there may be some use in this course. The course focuses on the structure of arguments. This can help a librarian to understand if they can trust a source, and to evaluate the reliability of different kinds of information. By encouraging an awareness of underlying biases, a librarian may be more able to identify and address potential misinformation. The course promotes communication skills and the ability to think critically, which can help a librarian to provide more effective guidance to patrons. The course can also promote more respectful discussions, which can help in a library setting where differing viewpoints may be expressed.

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Structure and Function of Argument

Introduction to Critical Thinking

What's inside

Learning objectives

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Introduction to critical thinking and argument

Activities

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