Claims & Counterclaims
What is a claim in an argumentative essay?
The main point or argument the writer is trying to prove.
Which is stronger evidence?
A) "I think dogs are cute"
B) "Studies show that dogs reduce stress"
A
Ask a question, give a fact, use a quote, or tell a short story.
For example, in addition, etc
True or False: You should use "I think" or "I believe" in a formal essay
False
Identify the claim in this sentence:
"Schools should start later because students need more sleep."
Schools should start later
Why is this piece of evidence considered weak?
"Pollution is bad because it's gross for the earth"
"because it's gross"- not factual or specific
What should your introduction include?
Hook, background, and clear claim/thesis
What's the correct essay order?
Introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion
What's one way to check for grammar or punctuation errors before turning in your essay?
Read aloud, peer edit, checklist, typing on a document
Identify the reason supporting the claim in this sentence
"All students should have to wear school uniforms because it reduces school distractions"
The reason is it helps reduce distractions.
Which one has the strongest evidence example?
A)“Some students say they would be more interested in class if they could use their phones for research.”
B)“A study by a technology education group found that classes using phones for interactive quizzes had higher student participation and test scores.”
C)“Teachers often worry that phones are distracting, but most students already know how to use them responsibly.”
Evidence B is the strongest because it gives specific, research-based proof showing a positive result (better participation and test scores) that directly supports the claim.
How can you make your conclusion strong?
Restate your claim, summarize key points, and end with a final thought or call to action.
What's the purpose of a topic sentence?
To introduce the main idea of a paragraph
What is a run on sentence?
two or more sentences joined incorrectly without proper punctuation
What is the author's main claim in this paragraph?
“Some people think that students should have a longer summer break so they can relax and spend time with family. However, others argue that a long break causes students to forget too much of what they learned. Shortening summer vacation and adding more mini-breaks throughout the year would help students remember material better and reduce stress.”
The author’s main claim is “Summer vacation should be shortened and replaced with shorter breaks throughout the year.”
Give one example of good evidence idea for an essay about technology and learning
Example- A statistic from an education study, or a quote from an expert"
What should you avoid doing in a conclusion?
Adding new evidence or arguments
Add a transition word to this sentence
"Some people like cats. Some people like dogs."
Some people like cats, while others prefer dogs"
Fix this run-on sentence
"Cell phones are distracting they should be banned in class"
"Cell phones are distracting, so they should be banned from classrooms.
How could you revise this claim to make it more specific and debatable?
"Social media is bad."
“Social media can negatively affect teens’ sleep and focus, so they should set limits on screen time.”
What are the 3 types of evidence?
Facts, examples, or quotes that support your claim
Write one possible concluding sentence for an essay about recycling.
"By recycling today, we an protect the planet for future generations"
Add a transition word
"I woke up. I ate breakfast. I went to school"
Punctuation matters!