Claims
What is a claim in the Toulmin method?
the main idea or thesis of an argument
What is the role of the grounds in the Toulmin model?
The grounds is what supports the claim using proof, examples, data, or facts to back it up.
Define the concept of the warrant in the Toulmin method.
A warrant connects the grounds to the claim; it is the supporting reason or the the logical explanation behind the claim and grounds.
How does the Toulmin method define a qualifier?
A qualifier acknowledges the limitations or restrictions of the claim (e.x: in most cases).
How does the Toulmin method define a rebuttal?
The rebuttal / counterargument is the opposing side of the argument, or an opposing point of view.
What makes a claim arguable?
A claim has to be a contested debate, not an objective fact
What is backing, and when is it needed?
Backing supports the warrant by providing additional justification, information or credibility.
True / False:
A warrant is always clearly stated.
Warrants are often underlying assumptions or implied.
What does this qualifier suggest:
“In most cases…”
That the claim may not always apply to every situation.
What is the purpose of including a rebuttal in an argument?
A rebuttal is necessary in an argument because it shows that the arguer / rhetorician has considered other viewpoints or anticipated responses to their topic and addresses them.
Identify the claim: “We should ban plastic bags to protect the environment.”
Claim:
"We should ban plastic bags"
Provide grounds to support this claim: “Social media is harmful to teens.”
Example:
“According to a 2023 Pew survey, 60% of teens say social media negatively affects their mental health.”
Read the following argument. Then, answer the question below.
Claim:
Schools should offer more hands-on learning opportunities.
Evidence:
Studies show that students retain more information when they actively participate in experiments, projects, and real-world problem solving.
Question:
Which of the following best represents a warrant that connects the evidence to the claim?
A. Hands-on learning activities are often more fun for students.
B. Students should enjoy school and feel motivated to learn.
C. If students retain more information through active participation, then hands-on learning helps improve education.
D. Many schools already include hands-on activities in science classes.
Answer:
C. If students retain more information through active participation, then hands-on learning helps improve education.
This is the warrant because it explains the logical connection between the evidence (better retention) and the claim (schools should offer more hands-on learning).
Why are qualifiers beneficial in an argument?
Acknowledging the qualifier makes the arguer / rhetorician seem more realistic, knowledgeable, and reasonable, which ultimately makes them more persuasive
True or False:
A strong rebuttal includes evidence or reasoning to explain why the counterclaim is weak or flawed.
True
A good rebuttal doesn’t just disagree with the counterclaim — it provides evidence, logic, or examples to show why the counterclaim is not as strong or valid as the original claim.
Which of the following is an arguable claim? Explain your choice.
A. Water boils at 100°C at sea level.
B. Many people enjoy listening to music while studying.
C. School uniforms improve student focus and reduce peer pressure.
D. The sun rises in the east and sets in the west.
Answer:
C. School uniforms improve student focus and reduce peer pressure.
Is this strong evidence?
“My cousin stopped eating sugar and felt better.”
Why or why not?
No, this is not strong because it is not generalizable.
Read the paragraph below. Then, choose the sentence that serves as the warrant:
School lunches should be healthier. Many students rely on school meals as their main source of nutrition during the week. Studies show that diets high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains improve concentration and overall health. If schools provide nutritious meals, students will be better equipped to focus and succeed in class.
Answer:
If schools provide nutritious meals, students will be better equipped to focus and succeed in class.
This sentence is the warrant — it explains why providing healthier lunches (the claim) is supported by the evidence about nutrition and student health. It connects the evidence to the claim with reasoning.
Rewrite this claim with a qualifier:
“All video games cause violence.”
Qualifier:
“Some video games may contribute to aggression.”
Analyze this rebuttal:
“Although some argue for year-round school, studies show no consistent academic benefits.”
Is it strong? Why or why not?
Yes, it is strong because it directly addresses the opposing view and responds with relevant evidence.
Create a claim:
Claim:
“It is unethical to use animals for cosmetic testing.”
Provide grounds to support this claim:
“School should start later.”
“School should start later"
Grounds: "because studies show teens focus better after 9am.”
Create a warrant that connects this grounds to the claim:
“He’s late every day, so he’s not reliable.”
“He’s late every day, so he’s not reliable."
Warrant: "People who are consistently late are not dependable.”
Create a qualifier using this claim:
"Fast food companies should be held accountable for contributing to public health crises like obesity"
Qualifier:
Fast food companies should face legal consequences in cases where they knowingly market unhealthy food to children and low-income communities.
Provide a rebuttal:
“Phones in class are distracting.”
Rebuttal:
"Some argue that phones may be distracting, but they can be tools for research and organization"