STS : Learn the fine art of argument from ST
Yap Yok Foo
7th May 2001
Learn the fine art of argument from ST
Persuasive GP essays depend on more than mere facts. Examiners also
look for thoughtful analysis, structured arguments and clarity of
thought
By Kenneth Chew
IF YOU are looking to ace that General Paper (GP) essay, you will need
more than just a mastery of cold, hard facts on the topic of your
choice.
While facts are important to any good argument, Cambridge examiners
grading GP scripts also look for essays with balanced views, the
effective development of argument and clarity of thought.
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One good way to sharpen your skills in persuasive writing is to pay
close attention to seasoned practitioners of the art.
As you browse through The Straits Times, you will, more often than
not, find articles on current, topical issues written by journalists
and members of the public that demonstrate the finer points in the cut
and thrust of written sparring.
One recent example is the exchange between The Straits Times senior
correspondent Chua Lee Hoong and Nominated MP Simon Tay on the issue
of whether the vote in Singapore is a right or privilege.
There are a few good pointers that can be derived from Mr Tay's
response to the article in the Forum Page, 'Voting a right, not mere
privilege'(ST, April 28), for GP students looking for that extra edge
in persuasive writing.
First, in putting forward a case, ensure that you give some indication
that the opposite view - or an alternative opinion - has been
considered and examined.
This suggests to the reader that you are not merely going forth
narrowly or blindly without due consideration of other viewpoints, but
rather that this view is one that has been arrived at after careful
deliberation of alternative views and facts.
It is a critical element in achieving balance.
Mr Tay signals such an approach with phrases such as:
'The article... suggests that...' and 'Ms Chua assumes that...',
before signalling his contrary view with the conjunction, 'But...'.
'Some may disagree on the need to...', followed by his qualification,
'However, if we disagree on...'.
'The only justification for this distinction seems to be...', which is
then countered by, 'While this may seem practical, it does not...'.
Pay attention to the use of such phrases, which are effective in
announcing alternative views and their counter-arguments in GP essays.
Secondly, when an argument is put forward, it cannot normally stand on
its own without strong substantiation. There are many ways to achieve
effective development.
Mr Tay, in his Forum letter, used the following means of elaboration:
Clarifying a statement he made by elaborating further, signalled by
the phrase, 'This means those...'.
Providing relevant examples, signalled by 'for example...'.
Then by setting the point being made in context in order to sharpen
the focus of the argument by using the phrase, 'In this context...'.
Other ways to achieve effective development include making comparisons
with different situations, generating analogies that are similar in
logic, and providing relevant data and statistics.
Finally, it is important that any argument operates from a controlling
premise or point of view that is referred to consistently throughout
the essay, as this signals clarity of thought and makes the argument
an easier read.
In Mr Tay's letter, his controlling premise is expressed succinctly in
his early statement, 'Distinctions between one person and another can
be drawn but they must be made rationally and for good purpose'.
Mr Tay goes on to communicate that premise to good effect through two
questions later in the letter - 'Are they rational?' and 'Is that
justified?' - referring to the distinctions between Singaporeans that
would disqualify one from the right to vote.
This has the effect of keeping the premise constantly in the mind of
the reader.
To sum up, one can learn a lot about the fine art of argument from
examining the way in which seasoned writers present their cases in The
Straits Times.
So, the next time you pick up the newspaper, be on the look-out for
such articles.
The writer taught GP for eight years, and was an English curriculum
specialist.
http://straitstimes.asia1.com.sg
**************From Uncle Yap**************
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