Definitional+Argument

**ENG 101 ** For a definitional essay, you need to write an argument that a borderline or contested case fits (or does not fit) within a particular category by classifying that particular case and defining the category. **Definitional arguments require a definition of key terms: ** **Example: ** Joe is too bossy. Define “bossy” and provide examples of his bossy attitude (poor listening skills, shouting at people, making decisions without asking committee—these are what define “bossy” in your argument.  **Example **: Low-carb diets are dangerous.   Define what constitutes “low-carb” and define what you mean by “dangerous.” Cite studies showing harmful effects, how substances affect the body, etc.   ______________________________________________________________________________ **Criteria-Match Structure: ** The **criteria** section of your argument explains and illustrates your criteria. The **match** section of your argument persuades the reader that your example meets those criteria. **Example: ** Although the Hercules Shoe Company is nonpolluting and provides a socially useful product, **[CLAIM]** it is not a socially responsible company **[BECAUSE CLAUSE]** because it treats its workers unjustly. **Criteria Part: **<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 115%;"> What points must be met for a company to be deemed “socially responsible”? <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 115%;">(1) Research how others have defined your term (dictionaries, judicial opinions, expert testimony, etc.  <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 115%;">(2) Use your own critical thinking to make your own extended definition.   **<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 115%;">Match Part **<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 115%;">: In what ways does the shoe company meet those points?   <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 115%;">(1) Supply examples of how this and other situations meet your criteria.   <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 115%;">(2) Give other evidence about how your example meets your criteria. <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 115%;">____________________________________________________________________________ <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 115%;">For your **Definitional Argument Essay**: <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 115%;">(1) introduce the issue and state the claim <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 115%;">(2) define key terms <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 115%;">(3) present your first criterion and argument that your case meets your definition <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 115%;">(4) present your second criterion and argument that your case meets your definition <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 115%;">(5) present your third criterion and argument that your case meets your definition (if necessary) <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 115%;">(6) anticipate and respond to possible objections/arguments <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 115%;">(7) conclude with return to the “big picture,” what is at stake, why your argument is important, etc.
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 16px;">Definitional Argument Essay **