Number Three: Know Your Argument Front and Back

  

One of the most convincing arguments you will learn about in AP Lang is that which is referred to as a qualifying argument. A qualifying argument is one that "proposes an idea that recognizes differences or conflicts and allows for the opposing argument/ side to have a "say'". In other words it is an argument that includes many perspectives in one paper while still presenting the authors central point. This type of argument is the most convincing because it builds the authors credibility through the recognition of all sides on one argument allowing the author to seem educated and informed, then also, gives the author the opportunity to dispute all opposing points, proving one central claim. As this is considered one of the most effective arguments, it is important to "know your argument front and back" meaning, after developing your own stance on a topic, consider all opposing viewpoints in order to create a well-rounded, credible, and convincing argument.

http://www.cartoonstock.com/directory/s/single_sex_school.asp

Consider the subject of single sex schools. Suppose the prompt was, Argue whether or not single-sex schools are beneficial to a child's education. In AP Lang we were actually presented with this prompt. We were told to find evidence that related to this topic and I was in charge of finding a visual representation. To the right is a cartoon drawn by Richard Jolley, whose cartoons have been published in The Times, Business Life, and Readers Digest. My groups qualifying argument was that although some single sex school are able to offer a beneficial education to individual sexes, single sex schools overall are a form of segregation offering unequal opportunities to the opposite sex. We used this visual to support our argument because it is a qualifying argument in itself. The paper the mother is holding that says, "Girls Schools Are Better" demonstrates that the girls institution was able to achieve status as the best school in the area, therefore offering a superior education to those who attended it. However, as the school is single sex, the son in this picture is unable to benefit from that superior education therefore receiving a separate and unequal opportunity as he is being segregated based on sex. By alluding to the fact that there are benefits to single sex schools, I build my credibility as I understand the opposing side to my argument. I am then able to dispute that point and establish my own convincing argument with less opposition to my claim.

A qualifying argument is the most advanced argument and also the most convincing. For our third quarter project and editorial, this year's AP Lang students are going to be required to write an advanced qualifying argument. Whether you prefer this type of argument or not, sometime during your year as an AP Lang student you will have to write a qualifying argument yourself. When put in that situation remember to know your argument front and back. Still argue your own point, but concede to at least one other perspective or viewpoint. You will write a better paper and be entitled to a higher grade, especially if it is proved correctly. 
 Below is a link that better clarifies how to write a qualifying argument, and why they are important. <http://spot.pcc.edu/~mdembrow/QUALIFYINGStatements.htm>.Check it out.