Parts of an Argument
What is the name for the reason an author is writing an argument?
Author's purpose
What is the author's claim?
Many schools are thinking about getting rid of recess to make more time for learning, but I believe that would be a big mistake. Recess helps students focus better in class because it gives their brains a break. It also allows kids to get exercise and play with their friends, which are important for staying healthy and happy. That’s why schools should keep recess as part of every school day.
Schools should keep recess as part of every school day.
Ethos, Pathos, or Logos?
Owning a pet can make life feel happier and less lonely. After a tough day, having a dog wag its tail or a cat curl up in your lap can bring real comfort. Pets love us no matter what, and that kind of friendship can brighten even the darkest days.
Pathos
Claim: "Kids should drink more water during the day."
Evidence: "My mom always tells me to drink more water."
Weak!
Why: It’s just one person’s opinion—not a fact, stat, or example!
Some people believe zoos are cruel, but they actually help protect endangered animals. Zoos give scientists a safe place to study wildlife and run breeding programs for animals at risk. Instead of being harmful, zoos can play a key role in saving species.
Author’s Purpose: To motivate people to change their minds
What is the heart of the argument referred to as?
The claim
What is the author's claim?
Every morning, students rush into the cafeteria to grab breakfast before the bell rings. Some eat quickly, while others skip it altogether. Teachers often notice that students who eat breakfast seem more awake and ready to learn. Though not everyone realizes it, what students eat in the morning can affect how they do in school. A healthy breakfast might be the key to staying focused and feeling good throughout the day.
Eating a healthy breakfast helps students do better in school.
Ethos, Pathos, or Logos?
People should recycle more at home. The average person throws away about 4 pounds of trash every day, and much of it could be recycled. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, recycling just one ton of paper saves 17 trees and 7,000 gallons of water. When we recycle plastic, metal, and glass, we use fewer natural resources and create less pollution. These facts show that recycling isn’t just helpful—it’s necessary for protecting the Earth.
Logos
Claim: "Video games can teach problem-solving skills."
Evidence: "Some games are really hard, and you have to think a lot to win."
Weak
Why: While it points in the right direction, it’s vague and lacks specific proof or expert support.
Students are often overwhelmed with schoolwork, and weekends are their only chance to rest and spend time with family. Giving homework every weekend takes away that balance. Schools should consider reducing weekend homework to help students stay healthy and happy.
Author’s Purpose: To get people to accept a problem/solution
Supportive information (facts, stats, and examples)
Evidence
What is the author's claim?
In many neighborhoods, kids ride bikes less than they used to. Sidewalks are empty, and bikes stay parked in garages. Instead, many young people spend their free time inside, playing video games or watching shows. Some parents say it’s safer this way, and it’s true that being indoors can protect kids from certain dangers. But as screens take up more time, something is being lost—fresh air, movement, and the simple joy of being outside.
Kids should spend more time outside rather than indoors on screens.
Ethos, Pathos, or Logos?
Every year, millions of trees are cut down, leaving behind empty forests. These trees aren’t just beautiful—they’re home to countless animals and provide fresh air for us all. When we destroy these forests, we lose more than just trees; we lose a piece of nature that we may never get back. Protecting them means saving the future for generations to come.
Pathos
Claim: "Reading helps improve your vocabulary."
Evidence: "A study showed that students who read 20 minutes a day know 8,000 more words by 6th grade than students who don’t."
Strong
Why: This is a clear, measurable fact from a study that supports the claim.
Think about how much cleaner the air would be if more kids rode bikes to school. You’d also feel more energized and alert when you arrive. If your school is close enough, try biking once a week—you might love it!
Author’s Purpose: To motivate people to take action
This connects the claim to the evidence.
Reason
What is the author's counterclaim?
Some people believe that school uniforms help students focus more on learning and less on fashion. They say uniforms make things fairer because everyone dresses the same. But wearing the same thing every day can feel boring, and not everyone likes being told what to wear. Students should have the freedom to express their personalities through their clothes, even at school.
School uniforms help students focus and create fairness.
Ethos, Pathos, or Logos?
Wearing sunscreen is important, even on cloudy days. Dermatologists—doctors who specialize in skin—recommend using sunscreen daily to protect against harmful UV rays. These experts say that regular use can help prevent sunburn, skin damage, and even skin cancer. When professionals give this kind of advice, it’s smart to listen.
Ethos
Claim: "Public libraries are still important, even in the digital age."
Evidence: "According to a national survey, 65% of people say they use libraries for internet access, job hunting, or community events."
Strong
Why: This is a specific stat from a credible source that directly supports the usefulness of libraries.
If everyone who visited a park picked up just one piece of trash, we could make a huge difference. Clean parks are safer for animals and more enjoyable for visitors. Next time you go to a park, bring a small bag and do your part to keep nature clean.
Author’s Purpose: To motivate people to take action
What is it called when the author considers the opposing side in their argument?
A counterclaim
What is the author's counterclaim?
Some cities are adding bike lanes to busy streets to encourage more people to ride bicycles instead of driving. Supporters say this helps the environment and makes cities less crowded with cars. But not everyone is excited about the change. Bike lanes take up space that used to be for cars, and some drivers complain that traffic has gotten worse. Even so, creating safer paths for cyclists may encourage more people to ride—and fewer cars on the road could actually ease traffic in the long run.
Bike lanes take space from cars and may cause more traffic.
Ethos, Pathos, or Logos?
Electric cars are becoming more popular because they are better for the environment. Studies show that electric cars produce far fewer greenhouse gases than traditional gasoline-powered cars. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, an electric vehicle can reduce carbon emissions by up to 50%. Additionally, electric cars require less maintenance since they don’t use oil, which can save drivers money over time. These facts show that electric cars are not only good for the planet but also for your wallet.
Logos
Claim: "Students should learn how to cook in school."
Evidence: "Cooking is fun and some people like it more than math."
Weak
Why: It’s opinion-based, doesn’t explain how it supports the claim, and compares it to an unrelated subject.
Many people don’t realize how important native plants are to the environment. These plants are adapted to local weather, need less water, and help pollinators like bees and butterflies. Choosing native flowers is a simple way to create a healthier yard and support wildlife.
Author’s Purpose: To get people to accept a solution (planting native flowers)