Step 1. Organize Information                                                                                                                                      

We have no difficulty in locating information. The key is that the information is selected and structured appropriately. With Rationale’s grouping maps you can drag information from the web onto your workspace and include color, hyperlinks and images. The structured, pyramid- like maps provide a guide for students to structure the information in such a way that reveals the connections between the main topic and its various themes or categories.

Figure 1.5

Step 2. Structure Reasoning

Many people provide opinions but rarely provide reasons to support their view. Rationale’s reasoning maps encourage people to support their responses, and to consider different opinions. It uses color conventions to display reasoning – green for reasons, red for objections and orange for rebuttals. It also includes indicator or connecting words, so that the relationship between statements is clearly understood.

Figure 1.6

Step 3. Consider Evidence

A test of a solid argument is how good the evidence is that underpins the claims. Rationale’s basis boxes provide a means of identifying the basis upon which a statement is given. The icons provide a visual guide as to the range of research utilized, and the strength of the evidence that is provided.

Figure 1.7

Step 4. Identify Assumptions

We often talk about analyzing arguments. This can mean a few things, including looking at the logical structure of the argument to ensure it is valid or well-formed, and also identifying assumptions or co-premises. For those who require higher levels of analysis, Rationale provides the analysis map format to show the relationships between main premises and co-premises.

Figure 1.8

Step 5. Evaluate Arguments                                                                                                                                          

Once arguments for and against an issue have been logically structured, they need to be evaluated. Rationale provides a visual guide for the evaluation of claims and evidence – the stronger the color, the stronger the argument, while icons designate acceptable or rejected claims. While learning this process of evaluating arguments, color and icons provide immediate understanding and communication of the conclusion.

Figure 1.9

Step 6. Communicate Conclusion

Presenting ideas orally or in writing is crucial, and is often the distinguishing feature between good results and average ones. Rationale has essay and letter writing templates to build skills and confidence. Templates provide instruction and generation of prose. When exported, there is a structured essay plan with detailed instructions to assist an understanding of clear and systematic prose.

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