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The Basics
Evidence & Explanation
Sound Reasoning
100
What is the recommended way to structure a thesis statement for an argumentative essay?
Acknowledge the counterargument and then state your position.
100
List three examples of evidence that are effective to use to support an argument.
Historical events, current events, a personal experience, knowledge from classes, extracurricular activities, interests/hobbies, etc.
100

Jumpin' J broke the all-time record for first-week sales, and all of the shows on Jumpin's new tour are already sold out. He is the best new hip-hop artist in the music scene today.


Does the author support the claim with sound reasoning? Why?

No, "best-selling hip-hop artist" does not logically lead to the conclusion that he is also the best.

200
Besides the thesis statement, what else should the introduction to an argumentative essay contain?
Discussion of the relevant background information.
200
List three examples of evidence that are not as effective to use to support an argument.
Pop culture, stereotypical teenage experiences, hypothetical situations, emotional appeals, etc.
200

Hi. This is a non-sponsored message from Alicia Cooper, rock star. Riding a bike to work just once a week can have numerous benefits. Biking is one of the best low-impact activities for the body. It is easy on the knees, burns calories, and can lower a person's blood pressure. Not only is biking good for individuals, it cuts down on burning nonrenewable fossil fuels and reduces the smog released into the air by combustible engines.

Does the author support her claim with sound reasoning? How do you know?

Yes, because the claims is supported with specific facts and information directly relevant to the benefits of bicycling to work

300

What is the difference between an opinion and an argument?

An argument must have evidence to support the claim but an opinion can be biased without a counterargument or relevant evidence.

300
How should you end each body paragraph of an argumentative essay?
With a sentence that links your claim/evidence back to your argument/thesis.
300

Is the claim effective and why?  This paper will consider the advantages and disadvantages of certain restrictions on free speech.

NO.  Never say "this paper will..."

400
What two parts must your supporting paragraphs have?
Evidence and explanation.
400

When is the best time to appeal to pathos in an argument?

In the conclusion since pathos is an appeal to emotion (definitely not part of the evidence)

400

Is this claim effective and why?  There are many reasons we need to limit hate speech.

Ineffective because it is too vague "many reasons"

500

What are the five parts of an argumentative essay?

Introduction with a claim, body paragraphs with evidence that supports the claim, an explanation of counterargument, refutation, conclusion with emotional connection or call to action.

500

What two parts must a refutation paragraph have?

The counterargument plus your own evidence and explanation that proves it's incorrect.

500

Effective thesis or not and why? Among the many reasons hate speech must be limited, the most compelling ones all refer to the US history of discrimination and prejudice, and it is, ultimately, for the purpose of trying to repair the troubled racial society that hate speech legislation is necessary.

Effective.  It is clear and specifically focused.