Counterarguments and Rebuttals

Counterarguments and Rebuttals

What is a counterargument?

A statement or argument that is opposite of, or is directly against, your opinion/argument.  

Example:

Claim - Girl Scout cookies are the best type of cookie. 

Counterargument - Oreos are superior to all other cookies. 

Multiple Choice

Select the counterargument to the claim "Global warming is caused by natural cycles in the earth"

• Global Warming is a part of Earth's natural progression

• Global Warming would happen regardless of the actions of humans

• Global warming is caused by humans, not just by earth cycles alone.

What is a rebuttal?

The rebuttal is your comeback when someone makes a counterargument against you. 

Example:

My argument: Barnes and Noble is the best bookseller in the United States.

·        Counterargument: Some people say that Amazon is cheaper and ships items faster, and is therefore “better”.

·        My rebuttal: However, the fact that BN has successful stores AND online sales proves that it is superior to an internet-only bookseller. 

A high-quality rebuttal should....

State your side, a counterargument, refute it, and give sufficient evidence to PROVE why you’re right.

Multiple Choice

Identify what is wrong with the following rebuttal: “Some people believe that it is unfair to make students wear uniforms, and they have a point.”

• States a counterargument, but fails to refute it

• Attempts to refute the counterargument, but does not provide sufficient evidence

• Insults the opponent or audience

• Nothing

Multiple Choice

Identify what is wrong with the following rebuttal: “Some students believe that it is unfair for the administration to require uniforms, but the school has good reasons.”

• States a counterargument, but fails to refute it

• Attempts to refute the counterargument, but does not provide sufficient evidence

• Insults the opponent or audience

• Nothing

Multiple Choice

Identify what is wrong with the following rebuttal: “Some students believe that it is unfair to be forced to wear uniforms, but they’re being immature. School is for learning, not fashion shows, and anyone who is that worried about an outfit has serious issues."

• States a counterargument, but fails to refute it

• Attempts to refute the counterargument, but does not provide sufficient evidence

• Insults the opponent or audience

• Nothing

“Uniforms are critical to learning. Some students believe it is unfair for the administration to require uniforms because it stifles their creativity and personal expression. However, the true purpose of school is to learn, and uniforms have been statistically shown to improve the learning environment.”

Multiple Choice

Select the counterargument to the claim "Global warming is caused by natural cycles in the earth"

• Global Warming is a part of Earth's natural progression

• Global Warming would happen regardless of the actions of humans

• Global warming is caused by humans, not just by earth cycles alone.