Letters to the editor concerning local politicians or upcoming legislation lend themselves to the Toulmin Model. Public statements and press releases designed to bolster the public image of an individual or group, or to diminish the image of opponents, all work well. Often social consciousness groups and political action groups release statements telling the public what they are all about and why people should support their cause. The Toulmin Model simplifies the process and offers a straightforward means for analyzing these types of arguments.
At first glance, many of the arguments suitable for a Toulmin analysis may not appear to be arguments at all. They may seem like just someone's opinion, but the opinion becomes an argument when the person gives reasons for what she says. When an individual or a collective group presents a case for a specific way of thinking, gives reasons for supporting their particular cause or candidate, or simply tries to convince others that they command more or better knowledge in a specific area, it is making an argument suitable for a Toulmin analysis.
Local newspapers often publishes ideas for a Toulmin analysis. The editorials, letters to the editor and guest columnists all frequently provide arguments suitable for the Toulmin Model. In addition, local companies or civic groups often buy advertisement space in the newspaper or on television to try to further their causes or make their case on a particular issue. These all fit into the Toulmin Model.
The internet is an obvious choice, and it seems endless in the number of sources for suitable arguments. You can search for your favorite political action groups or social groups such as Change.org, Planned Parenthood or PETA. Most, if not all, of these groups post their mission statements and their involvement in current causes. Any one of these works with the Toulmin Model, or you can choose from press releases calling for more funding in specific areas or decreasing funding in others. Public apologies from celebrities and politicians work well for the Toulmin Model, as do attack ads and even product advertisements.