Definition
This word means “implied but not directly stated.”
What is Implicit ?
“The coach looked at the scoreboard and slowly shook his head.”
What is implicit in this sentence?
He is disappointed / upset / frustrated.
If an author never directly states their opinion but reveals it through sarcasm, the message is ______.
Implicit
This word means “to provide strong evidence to support a claim.”
What is Substantiate?
“The mayor said the plan ‘might’ reduce violence.”
Why is this statement ambiguous?
It’s unclear whether it will actually work; “might” creates uncertainty.
Readers must ______ the author’s purpose by examining tone and word choice.
Discern
This word describes something unclear or open to multiple interpretations.
What is Ambiguous ?
Give one piece of evidence that would corroborate the claim:
“After-school programs reduce neighborhood crime.”
Statistics, studies, crime rate comparisons, etc.
A student makes a strong claim but provides no textual evidence.
What must they do to improve their writing?
Substantiate or Corroborate
This word means “to prove something wrong using evidence.”
What is Refute ?
Refute this claim:
“Social media has no negative impact on teenagers.”
Evidence about mental health, distraction, cyberbullying, etc.
An argument that focuses on realistic, workable solutions instead of ideal theories is ______.
Pragmatic
This word refers to subtle differences in tone, meaning, or expression.
What is Nuance ?
Explain the nuance between “being confident” and “being arrogant.”
Confidence = self-assured; arrogance = excessive pride.
Explain how you would refute a counterclaim in a Regents argumentative essay.
Present counterargument → Provide evidence → Explain why it is flawed.