Summary
1. The purpose of discourse may be to inform or to entertain.
2. The forms of discourse are— a. Description. b. Narration. c. Exposition. d. Argument (Persuasion).
3. Discourse presupposes an audience, and we must select a subject and use language adapted to that audience.
4. The suitableness of a subject is determined— a. By the writer’s knowledge of the subject. (1) This may be based on experience, or (2) It may be gained from others through conversation and reading. b. By the writer’s interest in the subject. (1) This may exist from the first, or (2) It may be aroused by our search for information. c. By adaptability of the subject to the reader. It should be of present, vital interest to him.
5. Subjects.
a. The sources of subjects are unlimited.
b. Subjects should be definite. They often need to be narrowed in
order to be made definite.
c. The title should be brief and should be worded so as to arouse
a desire to hear the theme.
6. Exposition is explanation.
7. We may make clear the meaning of a term— a. By using synonyms. b. By using simpler words. c. By supplementing our definitions with examples or comparisons.
8. General description includes the characteristics common to all members of a class of objects.
9. General narration is one form of exposition. It relates the things that characterize a process or action whenever it occurs.
10. Argument.
a. Explanation is the first step in argument.
b. A statement of advantages and disadvantages may assist us to
determine which side of a question we believe.
c. Specific instances may be used either for explanation or
argument.
11. Debate.
a. The subject of the debate may be stated in the form of a
resolution, a declarative sentence, or a question.
b. The most important arguments should be given the first and last
positions.
c. A brief will assist us in arranging our arguments in the most
effective order.
d. The refutation of opposing arguments should usually be placed
just before our own last and strongest argument.
e. Cautions in debating.
(1) Be fair.
(2) Be honest with yourself.
(3) Do not allow your desire for victory to overcome your
desire for truth.
(4) Remember that mere statement is not argument.
(5) Remember that exhortation is not argument.