Claims
This is a statement that gives your opinion and can be proven.
A claim
What do reasons do for a claim?
Explain why the claim is true.
What is evidence?
Proof that shows a claim is true.
"Homework is good because it helps." What's the problem?
The reason is too vague.
This is the largest ocean on Earth.
The Pacific Ocean
Is this a claim? "Dogs are mammals." Explain why or why not.
No, it is a fact, not a claim.
How many reasons should a strong claim have?
Three reasons
Which is evidence? "Many students like reading." OR "A study shows reading improves vocabulary."
"A study shows reading improves vocabulary."
"Phones are bad because they distract and because they distract."
Repeats the same reason.
This country is home to the Eiffel Tower.
France
Turn this into a strong claim: "Homework"
Which is a better reason: "it helps" OR "it improves focus" Why?
"It improves focus" because it is more specific.
Why is this NOT strong evidence? "Students say homework helps."
It is an opinion, not proof.
"Reading is important because it builds vocabulary, and pizza is delicious." What is wrong?
One reason is off-topic.
This instrument has keys, pedals, and strings, and is often found in music classrooms.
Piano
Which is the stronger claim? "School lunches." OR "School lunches should be healthier."
What is wrong with these reasons: "helps focus, helps concentration, helps attention?"
They repeat the same idea.
Which is stronger evidence: fact or an opinion?
A fact
"Exercise is good because many students like it" What is wrong?
It is an opinion, not a strong reason/evidence.
This is the hardest natural substance on Earth.
Diamond
Why is this a weak claim? "School is good."
It is too vague and not specific.
Give one strong reason for "Students should read every day."
Your teacher will determine if your answer is correct.
Give one example of strong evidence for exercise being important.
Your teacher will determine if your answer is correct or not.
"Students should eat breakfast because it is food." What is wrong?
The reason is too weak and obvious.
This scientist developed the theory of gravity after observing a falling apple.
Isaac Newton