on providing tools/aids for writing persuasive/argumentative texts

Much of the literature reviewed seems to show negative or inconclusive results when providing computer-based structural support, but much of the support given is grammatical rather than content oriented or the literature dates from over a decade ago when the interfaces of the tools presented were cumbersome. One study that may have been very revealing does not detail the form of the support given (medium or content) but only superficially defines "structural" and "content" support.

• Using Rubrics to Promote Thinking and Learning - an example of the use of rubrics as an instructional tool in teaching persuasive essay writing. (Results positive - rubrics well presented and defined with the participation of students therefore could be the basis of the grammar of this project)
• Computer-based Concept Mapping as a Prewriting Strategy for Middle School Students - compares computer-based concept mapping and word processor vs. paper-based concept mapping and handwritten essay writing and the effects on idea generation and structure/quality of essays. (Results inconclusive - more idea generation, less structured essays - blamed on intrusion of word processing tool (why they included this variable is not explained)
• Using Tools and Resources in Computer Supported Collaborative Writing - investigates the relationship between the use of the computer-based tools and resources the quality of the argumentative texts produced collaboratively. (mixed results - inconclusive)
• A study of the effects of content and structural support in writing tasks - (Results inconclusive - support not computer-based, vague on the form of the content and structural support given).

on structuring persuasive and argumentative texts

Tools seen or discussed (Drew, Cosar) are aimed at Computer support for collaborative writing (and learning) and are aimed at post-secondary students. I have found no tools aimed at learners beginning to write individual argumentative or persuasive essays. This leads to the consideration of the possibilities that either such a tool is not useful or has yet to be considered useful.

• The Five Paragraph Essay - thorough yet simple beginner resource to help people write a simple five paragraph essay - defines the different types, expository, persuasive etc.
• Tool for writing persuasive essays - an online tool (html form with cgi scripting) to guide the user through the composition of an argumentative text, but the "guidance" is not well presented and does not follow any of the other structures for argumentation looked at.
• Towards a Framework for Rhetorical Argumentation - the paper presents a formal framework for rhetorical argumentation (rhetorical argumentation being concerned with value judgements rather than logical merit). Very philosophical approach that aims to define a 'formula' for argumentation. Interesting overview of the Theory of Rhetorical Argumentation and the importance of sound rhetoric in persuasive writing.
• "Developing an Argument." Guide to Grammar and Writing - explores writing techniques and components of argumentative writing, with a good explanation of the different types of faulty logic.
• "Counter-Argument." The Academic Essay: A Brief Anatomy - explores writing techniques and components of countering an argument within a persuasive essay.
• The Silent Debate - more on including and structuring counter arguments in persuasive essay writing.