Problem in College that Inhibits Learning Discussion Paper

Persuasive Proposal Toulmin GuideLegend for figure 8.3
1. “Warrants – Describing ‘background’ will address your boss’s desire that your group continues
to be innovative and successful. This is addressing warrants.
2. Backing – Backing is information that ‘backs up’ the warrants. You know your boss is happy to
have a stellar group such as global accounts. Re affirm its success in your closing line.
3. Warrants – The statement of the problem is where you will address what you know your boss
does not want, an unproductive workplace. His ‘dislikes’ are sometimes stated or unstated
beliefs. Describe the problem as something that may endanger the health of the company,
employees, or department. He must believe it is real and demands action.
4. Claim – Your proposed solution is your claim. Be sure to use precise language that implies
success such as ‘increase productivity.’
5. Support – The proposed plan is evidence of how the solution will be implemented and be
successful. Remember, you are selling an idea. To sell an idea, you must provide evidence that
persuades your boss to acceptance it.
6. Qualifier – This is qualifying language that does not make absolute guarantees. See bold words
and phrasing.
7. Rebuttal – This constitutes your counter argument with regard to the extra expense the new
hires will cause. Be sure to include evidence that points to costs being offset either tangibly or
intangibly.
8. Warrants – More warrants in the final sections: benefits and conclusion. You must address all of
the objectives and goals you believe your boss holds: profitability, productivity. In short, you
must persuade him to believe this is a good investment in the future.”
Figure 8.3 on the next page (2 pages)