Lesson 7.3: Building and Drafting the Argument

Introduction

In this lesson, we will focus on the critical skills necessary for building and drafting a structured argument in your independent contextual investigation. By the end of this lesson, you, students, will be able to shape your research into a compelling line of argument, outline your investigation effectively, draft specific sections with clarity, integrate analysis with relevant sources, and ensure that your argument remains focused on your research question.

Our goal is to give you the tools to structure your ongoing research and communicate your findings in a clear and persuasive manner, just as you would in a degree-level study.

Learning Objectives

Shape research into a clear line of argument.
Outline the contextual investigation before writing in full.
Draft sections and integrate analysis with sources.
Keep the argument focused on the research question.
Shape research into a structured argument.

Shaping Research into a Clear Line of Argument

An argument is an essential element of academic writing, functioning as the backbone of your investigation. It is important to ensure that every argument you present is well-structured and connects logically to your thesis and research question. Let’s start by discussing what constitutes a strong argument.

Components of a Strong Argument

A strong argument typically includes:

Claim: A clear statement of position on the research question.
Evidence: Data or information that supports the claim, drawn from reliable sources.
Warrant: The reasoning that connects the evidence to the claim.

Example

Suppose your research question is: "How does urban street art challenge societal norms?"

Claim: Urban street art subverts societal norms by expressing dissent.
Evidence: A study by Smith (2020) shows that 70% of surveyed street artists create works that critique social issues.
Warrant: The high percentage of artists engaging in critical art demonstrates the effectiveness of street art as a form of social commentary.

Building an Outline of Your Investigation

Creating an outline is a vital step in organizing your thoughts and ensuring a logical flow in your argumentation. An outline should show how you plan to structure your independent contextual investigation.

Steps to Create an Outline

Identify key themes from your research.
Organize themes into sections that align with your argument.
Assign evidence to each section that supports the argument.
Include counterarguments to acknowledge differing perspectives.
Structure your outline chronologically or thematically.

Example Outline

Introduction

Brief overview of street art.
Statement of the research question.

Historical Context of Street Art

Evolution and significance.
Evidence from published literature.

Current Perspectives

Interviews with artists and critics.
Statistical data from surveys.

Analyses of Key Works

Detailed analysis of specific pieces.
Connection to societal norms.

Counterargument

Presentation of opposing viewpoints.
Rebuttals and reasoning.

Conclusion

Summary of findings.
Implications for future street art.

Drafting Sections and Integrating Analysis with Sources

Having a solid outline, it is time to start drafting your sections. This part of the process involves weaving your analysis with supporting sources in a manner that enhances your argument.

Effective Drafting Techniques

Start with topic sentences that introduce the main idea of each paragraph.
Follow with analysis that explores the topic further.
Incorporate direct quotations and references from sources to substantiate your claims.
Conclude paragraphs with their significance, tying back to your main argument.

Worked Example: Drafting a Section

Assuming you are drafting the section on 'Current Perspectives':

Topic Sentence: Contemporary street artists utilize their work to voice dissent against social injustices.

Analysis and Integration:

"As highlighted by Johnson (2021), 'Art in the streets has become a canvas for marginalized voices.' This statement demonstrates how street art serves not merely as decoration but as a form of social critique. Artists like Banksy and Shepard Fairey are often seen as icons of dissent, using their platforms to challenge mainstream narratives. These actions support the claim that urban street art enables dialogue around pressing social issues."

Conclusion of Paragraph:

"Thus, through the exploration of contemporary artists, we see a reflection of society’s tensions and a challenge to normative structures."

Keeping the Argument Focused on the Research Question

Remaining focused is vital in academic writing, particularly in a contextual investigation. Every argument, piece of evidence, and analysis should directly connect back to your central research question.

Techniques to Maintain Focus

Revisit your research question frequently during drafting to ensure relevance.
Use signposting within your writing to remind the reader of the connection between the argument and the question.
Review and revise drafts to eliminate tangents or unnecessary information that diverge from your main point.

Conclusion

By shapeshifting your research into a structured argument, outlining your investigation, drafting relevant sections, and keeping your focus centered on your research question, you can create a compelling independent contextual investigation. This process not only aids in clarity and coherence but also strengthens your position as a critical thinker.

Developing these skills will prove to be invaluable as you move forward in your studies and research endeavors. Always strive for clarity and structured reasoning, and remember, the quality of your argument can significantly enhance the impact of your work.

Study Notes

A well-structured argument includes claims, evidence, and warrants.
Create outlines to organize your arguments thematically or chronologically.
Ensure each draft integrates analysis with sources effectively.
Keep returning to your research question to maintain focus.
Revise drafts consistently to refine clarity and coherence.