Understanding Arguments Flashcard

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What is an argument?

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An argument is a statement or series of statements that present a claim and provide reasons or evidence to support that claim, often involving opposing viewpoints.

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What is a thesis statement?

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A thesis statement is a sentence that summarizes the main point or claim of an essay, typically including the writer's position and the reasons supporting it.

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What is a counter-argument?

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A counter-argument is an opposing viewpoint or argument that addresses the main argument, used to strengthen the original argument by acknowledging and refuting opposing views.

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What is the purpose of supporting reasons in an argumentative essay?

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Supporting reasons provide evidence and justification for the thesis statement, helping to persuade the reader of the validity of the argument.

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What is the importance of the order of supporting reasons in an essay?

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The order of supporting reasons is important because it helps to create a logical flow and enhances the persuasiveness of the argument, often following the order presented in the thesis.

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What does it mean to concede in an argument?

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To concede means to acknowledge a point made by the opposing side, which can strengthen the overall argument by showing fairness and understanding.

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What is the role of evidence in an argument?

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Evidence supports the claims made in an argument, providing factual information, statistics, examples, or expert opinions to validate the argument.

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What is a persuasive technique?

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A persuasive technique is a method used to convince the audience of a particular viewpoint, such as emotional appeal, logical reasoning, or ethical considerations.

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What is the difference between a fact and an opinion?

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A fact is a statement that can be proven true or false, while an opinion is a personal belief or judgment that is subjective and cannot be proven.

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What is the significance of addressing opposing views in an argumentative essay?

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Addressing opposing views demonstrates critical thinking and strengthens the argument by showing that the writer has considered multiple perspectives.