they say / i say pdf

Understanding “They Say / I Say”

“They Say / I Say” is a framework for academic argumentation, emphasizing clear articulation of existing views and your responsive stance.

It provides sentence templates to structure arguments effectively, fostering nuanced and productive academic discourse.

This method, derived from Graff and Birkenstein’s work, aids in presenting ideas with clarity and precision.

What is “They Say / I Say”?

“They Say / I Say”, originating from Gerald Graff and Cathy Birkenstein’s work, is a strategic method for constructing persuasive arguments within academic writing.

It’s fundamentally about recognizing, summarizing, and thoughtfully responding to existing perspectives – the “they” – before presenting your own – the “I”.

The approach isn’t merely about stating your opinion; it’s about positioning it in relation to what others have already said. This involves understanding prevailing views, acknowledging counterarguments, and then clearly articulating your unique contribution.

Utilizing sentence templates, it promotes clarity and avoids assumptions about readers’ prior knowledge, ensuring a more robust and convincing argument.

The Core Principle: Summarizing and Responding

The central tenet of “They Say / I Say” revolves around a two-part process: accurately summarizing others’ arguments (“They Say”) and then articulating your own informed response (“I Say”).

Effective summarization isn’t simply recounting what others have stated; it requires identifying the core claims and presenting them fairly and accurately.

Responding isn’t just disagreement; it can involve agreeing, disagreeing, complicating, or building upon existing ideas.

This dynamic fosters intellectual engagement and demonstrates a thoughtful understanding of the conversation.

Key Templates from “They Say / I Say”

“They Say / I Say” offers specific sentence templates to guide writers in effectively introducing summaries and formulating their responses.

These templates streamline argumentation and promote clarity.

Templates for Introducing What Others Are Saying

Introducing established viewpoints is crucial for strong argumentation, and “They Say / I Say” provides several templates for doing so effectively.

“X argues that…” directly attributes a claim to a source, while “According to Y…” frames a statement as originating from a specific author.

These templates ensure you accurately represent others’ ideas before responding. Utilizing these structures avoids misrepresentation and establishes a clear context for your own claims, fostering academic integrity and productive dialogue.

They are foundational for building a robust and well-supported argument.

“X argues that…” Template

The “X argues that…” template is a direct and concise method for introducing another’s claim. It clearly identifies the source (“X”) and their specific assertion.

This template is particularly useful when summarizing a central argument from a text or speech. For example, “Smith argues that increased funding for education is vital for economic growth.”

It establishes a clear point of reference, allowing you to then engage with that argument – whether agreeing, disagreeing, or complicating it. This template is a cornerstone of the “They Say / I Say” approach.

“According to Y,…” Template

The “According to Y…” template functions similarly to “X argues that…”, offering a straightforward way to present someone else’s viewpoint. It attributes a claim directly to its source (“Y”), ensuring proper attribution and avoiding plagiarism.

This is especially helpful when referencing established facts or widely held beliefs. For instance, “According to recent studies, climate change is accelerating at an alarming rate.”

Using this template demonstrates you’ve engaged with existing scholarship and are building your argument upon a foundation of informed understanding.

Templates for Disagreeing with Others

Disagreeing effectively requires acknowledging the opposing view before presenting your counterargument. “They Say / I Say” provides templates to navigate this delicate balance.

Templates like “Although X may seem…, it should in fact…” concede a potential surface-level validity to the opposing claim, before revealing its limitations. Similarly, “While many believe…, I contend that…” establishes a common belief, then boldly asserts a differing perspective.

These structures signal respect while firmly establishing your own position, fostering productive academic debate.

“Although X may seem…, it should in fact…” Template

This template is a powerful tool for nuanced disagreement, acknowledging a potential validity in the opposing view before presenting a counter-argument. It begins by conceding a point – “Although X may seem…” – demonstrating intellectual honesty and avoiding a dismissive tone.

However, the crucial shift comes with “…it should in fact…”, signaling a re-evaluation and the introduction of your contrasting perspective. This structure is particularly effective when addressing commonly held beliefs or seemingly obvious truths.

It allows for a sophisticated argument that builds upon, rather than simply rejects, existing ideas.

“While many believe…, I contend that…” Template

This template directly addresses a widespread opinion, establishing a clear contrast between the prevailing view and your own position. Starting with “While many believe…” immediately situates your argument within a broader conversation, acknowledging the existence of alternative perspectives.

The phrase “I contend that…” then firmly asserts your disagreement, signaling a deliberate and reasoned challenge to the established belief. This structure is ideal for tackling controversial topics or challenging conventional wisdom.

It’s a direct and assertive way to introduce your thesis, inviting further exploration and debate.

Templates for Agreeing with Others

Acknowledging common ground is crucial for productive dialogue. Templates for agreement don’t simply echo others’ views; they build upon them, adding nuance and complexity. “I agree that…, and would even add that…” allows for affirmation followed by expansion, demonstrating thoughtful engagement.

Alternatively, “X is right to point out…, but…” concedes a valid point while subtly introducing a qualification or alternative perspective. These templates avoid simplistic agreement, showcasing critical thinking.

They foster a collaborative spirit, strengthening your argument through respectful acknowledgment of existing ideas.

“I agree that…, and would even add that…” Template

This template facilitates a nuanced agreement, moving beyond simple affirmation. It acknowledges the validity of another’s claim – “I agree that…” – before extending the discussion with an original insight. The phrase “and would even add that…” signals a constructive addition, demonstrating independent thought.

Effectively, it builds upon the existing argument, enriching the conversation. This approach avoids appearing merely agreeable, instead positioning you as a thoughtful contributor. It’s a powerful tool for establishing credibility and fostering intellectual exchange.

Use it to show respect while simultaneously advancing your own perspective.

“X is right to point out…, but…” Template

This template acknowledges a valid point made by another author (“X is right to point out…”) before introducing a contrasting perspective signaled by “but…”. It’s a strategic move, demonstrating fairness and intellectual honesty while subtly shifting the focus.

The “but” doesn’t negate the initial agreement entirely; rather, it introduces a qualification or limitation. This allows for a more complex and nuanced argument, avoiding a simplistic “right or wrong” dichotomy.

It’s ideal for situations where you concur with a portion of an argument but believe it’s incomplete or requires further consideration.

The Importance of Context: “They Say”

“They Say” necessitates accurately representing existing arguments to establish a clear understanding before offering a response.

Avoiding straw man fallacies—misrepresenting an opponent’s view—is crucial for honest and productive academic debate.

Accurately Representing Existing Arguments

Precisely portraying what “they say” forms the bedrock of effective argumentation, demanding a commitment to fairness and intellectual honesty. This involves diligent research and a genuine effort to understand opposing viewpoints, avoiding selective quoting or distortion.

Templates like “X argues that…” or “According to Y…” encourage direct engagement with sources, ensuring you’re responding to the actual argument, not a caricature.

Misrepresenting an opponent’s stance weakens your credibility and hinders meaningful dialogue. A strong “they say” establishes a solid foundation for your “I say,” demonstrating thoughtful consideration and respect for alternative perspectives.

Avoiding Straw Man Fallacies

A straw man fallacy occurs when you misrepresent an opponent’s argument to make it easier to attack. This distortion creates a “straw man” – a weaker, fabricated version of the original claim.

“They Say / I Say” actively combats this by emphasizing accurate summarization. Instead of attacking a simplified or exaggerated position, the framework compels you to engage with the actual argument presented.

Using templates encourages faithful representation, preventing unintentional (or intentional) mischaracterizations. Recognizing and avoiding straw man fallacies strengthens your argument’s integrity and demonstrates intellectual rigor.

Crafting Your Response: “I Say”

“I Say” involves formulating a clear, concise thesis that responds directly to “They Say,” supported by robust evidence and logical reasoning.

It’s about presenting your informed perspective.

Developing a Clear and Concise Thesis

Crafting a strong “I Say” begins with a focused thesis statement. This isn’t merely a topic; it’s your specific argument in response to what “They Say.”

Avoid vague language and broad generalizations. Instead, aim for precision and clarity, directly addressing the existing conversation. A good thesis acknowledges the prior view, then clearly states your differing perspective or nuanced agreement.

Templates like “While X argues Y, I contend Z” can be invaluable. Remember, your thesis is the anchor for your entire argument, guiding your evidence and analysis. It must be arguable and defensible.

Supporting Your Claims with Evidence

A compelling “I Say” isn’t simply assertion; it demands robust evidence. After presenting your thesis, systematically provide support—facts, statistics, examples, or expert testimony—to substantiate your claims.

Clearly connect your evidence back to your thesis, explaining how it supports your argument. Don’t assume the connection is obvious; make it explicit for your reader.

Utilize transitional phrases to signal evidence (“For example,” “Specifically,” “Research indicates”). Remember, strong evidence strengthens your credibility and persuades your audience.

Transitions for Effective Argumentation

Strategic transitions smoothly guide readers through your argument, connecting “They Say” and “I Say.” They enhance clarity and demonstrate logical reasoning.

Effective transitions introduce evidence and acknowledge counterarguments, building a cohesive and persuasive narrative.

Transitions for Introducing Supporting Evidence

Introducing supporting evidence requires transitions that clearly signal a shift towards bolstering your claims. Phrases like “For example,” “Specifically,” or “To illustrate this point,” effectively preface concrete examples.

Furthermore, utilizing transitions such as “As an illustration,” “In particular,” or “Evidence suggests that” strengthens the connection between your thesis and the presented data. These phrases demonstrate a deliberate and logical progression of thought, guiding the reader through your reasoning.

Remember to seamlessly integrate the evidence, explaining its relevance to your overall argument, ensuring a cohesive and persuasive presentation.

Transitions for Introducing Counterarguments

Acknowledging counterarguments is crucial for robust argumentation; transitions signal this shift. Phrases like “However,” “On the other hand,” or “Nevertheless” introduce opposing viewpoints respectfully.

Employing transitions such as “Some might argue that,” “It is true that,” or “While it is often believed” demonstrates intellectual honesty and a comprehensive understanding of the topic. These phrases prepare the reader for a contrasting perspective.

Subsequently, refute the counterargument with evidence, reinforcing your thesis and showcasing critical thinking skills, ultimately strengthening your overall position.

Applying “They Say / I Say” to Academic Writing

“They Say / I Say” significantly enhances argumentative essays and research papers by promoting clarity and focused analysis of existing scholarship.

Utilizing templates strengthens arguments and improves overall academic writing quality.

Strengthening Argumentative Essays

“They Say / I Say” dramatically improves argumentative essays by forcing writers to explicitly acknowledge and summarize opposing viewpoints before presenting their own. This approach moves beyond simple assertion, building credibility through demonstrated awareness of the broader conversation.

The provided templates facilitate a structured response, preventing arguments from appearing as isolated opinions. By clearly stating “what others say,” writers establish a context for their “I say,” making their claims more persuasive and intellectually honest. This method encourages a more nuanced and thoughtful exploration of complex issues, ultimately leading to stronger, more compelling essays.

Improving Research Paper Clarity

“They Say / I Say” enhances research paper clarity by demanding precise articulation of the existing scholarly conversation surrounding a topic. Utilizing the templates ensures researchers don’t merely present findings, but contextualize them within the field’s ongoing debates.

This framework prevents research from appearing disconnected or lacking intellectual grounding. Explicitly acknowledging prior work—”they say”—and then positioning one’s research as a response—”I say”—creates a logical flow, guiding readers through the argument. This structured approach fosters a more transparent and understandable presentation of complex research.

Beyond the Templates: Nuance and Complexity

“They Say / I Say” templates are starting points; skilled writers adapt them, acknowledging arguments’ complexities and avoiding oversimplification for richer analysis.

Effective argumentation requires recognizing shades of gray and avoiding rigid binary oppositions.

Acknowledging Complexity in Arguments

Effective academic writing transcends simple agreement or disagreement, demanding a nuanced understanding of existing perspectives. While “They Say / I Say” provides valuable templates, remember that real-world arguments are rarely monolithic.

Recognize internal contradictions within “They Say,” and acknowledge potential validity in opposing viewpoints. Avoid portraying arguments as entirely good or bad; instead, explore the conditions under which they hold merit.

Consider qualifiers like “often,” “usually,” or “in many cases” to demonstrate awareness of exceptions and limitations. This demonstrates intellectual honesty and strengthens your overall credibility.

Avoiding Oversimplification

The “They Say / I Say” framework, while helpful, can inadvertently lead to oversimplified representations of complex issues. Resist the urge to reduce nuanced arguments to easily digestible soundbites.

Avoid “straw man” fallacies – misrepresenting an opponent’s position to make it easier to attack. Accurately and fairly summarize “They Say” before offering your counterpoint.

Acknowledge the historical, social, and political contexts surrounding the debate. Recognize that arguments often arise from specific circumstances and are not universally applicable. Strive for intellectual humility and avoid absolutist claims.

Resources and Further Exploration

Explore the official “They Say / I Say” website for templates and guidance. Numerous online tutorials and guides further clarify its application to academic writing.

The Official “They Say / I Say” Website

The official website dedicated to “They Say / I Say” serves as a central hub for understanding and implementing this influential rhetorical framework. It provides a wealth of resources, including downloadable templates mirroring those found within the book itself.

Visitors can access detailed explanations of the core principles, alongside illustrative examples demonstrating how to effectively integrate “They Say / I Say” into their writing. The site also features supplementary materials designed to enhance comprehension and application, making it an invaluable tool for students and scholars alike.

Furthermore, it often includes updates and additional insights from the authors, Graff and Birkenstein, ensuring users have access to the most current information regarding this powerful argumentative strategy.

Online Guides and Tutorials

Numerous online guides and tutorials complement the “They Say / I Say” framework, offering diverse perspectives and practical applications. Many university writing centers, like Mt. SAC, provide accessible resources detailing the templates and strategies outlined in the book.

These guides often break down complex concepts into manageable steps, accompanied by illustrative examples tailored to various academic disciplines. Video tutorials further enhance understanding, visually demonstrating how to construct effective arguments using “They Say / I Say”.

Searching online reveals a plethora of supplementary materials designed to solidify comprehension and facilitate skillful implementation of these rhetorical techniques.

“They Say / I Say” in Different Disciplines

Adapting templates to specific fields—humanities or sciences—requires tailoring language and acknowledging disciplinary conventions for effective argumentation and clarity;

Contextualization is key.

Adapting Templates to Specific Fields

Successfully employing “They Say / I Say” necessitates thoughtful adaptation to diverse academic disciplines. While the core principles remain constant, the expression of arguments varies significantly.

For instance, humanities fields often embrace more interpretive and nuanced language, demanding templates that accommodate complexity and ambiguity. Conversely, scientific disciplines prioritize precision and empirical evidence, requiring templates focused on data and quantifiable results.

Consider how “Although X may seem…” translates differently when discussing literary theory versus a physics experiment. Flexibility and awareness of disciplinary norms are crucial for effective communication.

Examples in Humanities and Sciences

In humanities, a “They Say / I Say” application might look like: “While many critics argue Shakespeare’s Hamlet is about revenge, I contend it’s primarily a study of existential dread.” This showcases interpretive disagreement.

Conversely, in sciences: “According to Smith (2023), increased CO2 levels correlate with rising temperatures; however, my research indicates a more complex relationship involving oceanic currents.” This emphasizes empirical challenge.

Notice how humanities examples allow for broader interpretations, while science demands specific, testable claims. Both demonstrate acknowledging existing work (“They Say”) before presenting a novel perspective (“I Say”).