ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses three questions concerning direct-discourse response: How does direct logical discourse work?, When is direct logical discourse appropriate? and How do one go about preparing a response using direct logical discourse? Direct logical discourse works mechanically. A reconstruction of an argument via the direct mode is transference of one's reading of a direct or indirect text in the form of a deductive argument containing numbered premises and a numbered conclusion. Direct discourse works best in situations in which the premises can be verified by empirical reports. In responding to direct discourse, a reader must first find the claim being made in the selection. The claim (also known as the point of contention or the conclusion) requires some support to be accepted. The response mode of direct discourse can be used to reconstruct and respond to every sort of discourse (written or visual).
