Basic Vocabulary
What is a claim?
A statement the writer supports
Where is the claim usually found?
In the introduction
Which evidence is strongest?
Information from a reliable source; Ethos & Logos rhetorical appeals
Why is evidence alone not enough?
The reader needs explanation as to why that evidence is connected to your claim
Why include counterclaims?
To show understanding of both sides
Which rhetorical appeal should not be used in argumentative writing?
Pathos
What is evidence?
Facts that support the claim
Why should a claim be clear?
To help readers understand the argument
Why should you explain evidence?
To show how it supports the claim
Which phrase/sentence stem shows reasoning? (This is how you can begin explaining why you chose your evidence)
This shows that... / From this text I can infer... / This means... / This explains
Where are counterclaims usually placed?
After supporting reasons
What shows a writer's bias?
Only presenting one side
What is a counterclaim?
The opposing viewpoint
What makes a claim stronger?
Clearly stating a position
What should follow evidence?
An explanation of how it supports the claim
What connects evidence to claims?
Reasoning - aka your reasons are supported by evidence
Give an example of a rebuttal sentence.
However, studies show students focus better after breaks
Why would a writer include both a counterclaim and rebuttal?
It shows that they can be trusted (increases credibility), demonstrates fairness, and shows that they really understand the topic
What is reasoning?
An explanation connecting evidence to the claim
Which shows a claim vs. a fact?
Claims need support; facts are proven
What is NOT strong evidence?
A personal feeling with no facts
What makes reasoning strong?
Connecting evidence back to the claim
What does a rebuttal do?
Explains why the counterclaim is weak
Which rhetorical appeals do appear in Argumentative Writing? What are their definitions?
Ethos establishes credibility, authority, and character. Logos appeals to logic, reason, and facts
What is a rebuttal?
A response that weakens the counterclaim
Give an example of a sentence that shows a claim.
Students believe school should start later
What makes a source credible?
Expert author and reliable publisher
Why include reasoning after evidence?
To explain how evidence proves the claim
What is a commonplace assertion?
A claim people believe without proof
How does audience affect writing?
The audience affects argumentative writing because writers change their tone, word choice, and evidence based on who they are trying to persuade. This helps them organize their ideas in a way the reader will understand.