Based on video-recorded peer interactions, this paper discusses the interactive functions ofPalm Up Open Hand gestures in conversational argumentation. Drawing on conversationanalysis, we demonstrate that PUOH gestures occur in sequential positions where newperspectives come up for discussion and divergent positions are established; they are thusresources for soliciting or giving reasons. It is argued that as publicly visible resourcesreciprocal PUOH gestures facilitate the orderly production of contiguous responses and ensurecoherence between turns.
