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ENGLISH : Mastering Summaries & Counter-Arguments - Coggle Diagram
ENGLISH : Mastering Summaries & Counter-Arguments
Active Listening
The Foundation of Understanding
The Difference Between Hearing and Active Listening
Active listening is a conscious, disciplined practice.
Stand Up, Speak Out says listening is purposeful and focused.
It requires effort to grasp a speaker’s full meaning.
Hearing is passive and accidental
It’s like the difference between hearing traffic and listening to a friend tell you about their day.
You cannot respond effectively to an argument you haven’t truly heard.
Core Practices for Active Listening
Stay Engaged
Take Effective Notes
Remain Open-Minded
Identifying Key Points: The Anatomy of an Argument
Claim
The main point or conclusion the speaker is trying to prove
Data (or Evidence)
The facts, statistics, examples, or testimony used to support the claim.
Reasoning (or Warrant)
The logical connection that explains how the data proves the claim.
Argument Structure :
Data
Reasoning
Claim
Comparing Two Arguments: Finding Commonalities & Differences
Identify Similarities: The Power of Common Ground
Shared Problems or Values
Shared Assumptions or Facts
Identify Differences: The Heart of the Disagreement :
Evidence
Values and Priorities
Types of Claims
Factual Claims
Value Claims (Normative)
Policy Claims (Prescriptive)
Synthesizing Information into a Coherent Summary
How to Weave a Summary
Start with the unifying theme.
Present arguments in relation to each other.
Integrate supporting points by theme.
Use transitional words and phrases.
Stay neutral and factual in tone.
Balance the coverage.
Rebutting Claims with Structured Counter-Arguments
Understand the Original Claim and Reasoning
State argument fairly and accurately
Identify main claim
Identify evidence used
Identify logic connecting claim and evidence
Look for weak spots
Unwarranted assumptions
Gaps in logic
Taken for granted without proof
Address the Claim Directly
Core of speaker’s point
3 Provide evidence & reasoning
"They Say..."
"But I Say..."
"Because..."
"Therefore..."
Advanced Rebuttal Techniques
Stay Respectful and Logical
Credibility (ethos)
Address ideas, not people
Avoid personal attacks
Avoid personal attacks
Ad hominem = weak argument
Confident, polite tone
Focus on logic (logos) & evidence
Concede minor points strategically
Show reasonable & thorough thinker
Anticipate Responses
Think one step ahead
Predict opponent’s comeback
Strengthen your position
Acknowledge counterpoints
Increases credibility
Bringing It All Together: The Debater's Mindset
Synthesizing information
Comparing arguments
Formulating counter-arguments