Assertions
Define 'assertion.'
Model Answer:
A strong, clear statement of fact or belief. It gives a confident and forceful nature to your position or claim.
Define 'counterclaim.'
Model Answer:
An opposing viewpoint to your assertion.
What is a balanced response?
Model Answer:
A balanced response in critical responses fairly analyzes both the strengths and weaknesses of a text or argument.
What is a rebuttal?
Model Answer:
A rebuttal is your response to the counterclaim, where you argue why your assertion still holds strong.
What is a thesis statement?
Model Answer:
A thesis statement is a clear sentence that expresses the main idea or argument of an essay or speech.
Write an assertion about school uniforms.
Model Answer:
School uniforms should be mandatory in public schools to promote equality.
Explain how a counterclaim strengthens your argument.
Model Answer:
This strengthens your argument as it showsthat you’ve considered other viewpoints, which makes your position more thoughtful and credible.
Why should you present multiple viewpoints?
Model Answer:
Presenting multiple viewpoints is important because it shows that you’ve thought critically about the issue, making your argument more credible, and helps the audience understand the full picture.
Why is using evidence important in a rebuttal?
Model Answer:
Using evidence in a rebuttal is important because it supports your response with facts, making your argument stronger and more convincing.
Why refine a thesis?
Model Answer:
Refining a thesis makes it clearer, more focused, and stronger, helping to guide your argument effectively.
Turn this weak statement into a strong assertion: 'I think homework is bad.'
Model Answer:
1.Homework harms students' well-being.
2. Homework is ineffective for students.
Give an example of a counterclaim for 'Homework is harmful.'
Model Answer:
Some says that homework helps students practice and learn.
Explain how transitions help in balanced responses.
Model Answer:
Transitions help in connecting different ideas and viewpoints, making the argument clear and easy to follow.
Turn this counterclaim into a rebuttal: 'Some say homework helps learning.'
Model Answer:
While some argues homework helps learning, too much of it can cause stress and reduce students' motivation.
How can considering multiple viewpoints improve your thesis?
Model Answer:
Considering multiple viewpoints can improve your thesis by making it more thoughtful, well-rounded, and persuasive, showing you’ve fully explored the topic.