Types of evidence

Types of evidence

Let's review the 4 types we've learned this unit.

Open Ended

How many of the 4 types of evidence do you remember? List them:

4 Types of Evidence

• Facts

• Statistics

• Expert Testimony

• Anecdote (personal story)

Facts

These are things that are true, not someone's opinion.

An example of a fact is Sacramento is the capital of California.

Facts are a logos appeal (logical)

Multiple Choice

Is this a fact?

Stephen Curry is a pro basketball player.

• Yes, this is a fact.

• No, this is an opinion.

Multiple Choice

Is this a fact?

Stephen Curry is the best player in the NBA.

• Yes, this is a fact.

• No, this is an opinion.

Statistics

Numbers and research

Example: 35% of PHS students play sports

Statistics is a logos appeal (logical)

Multiple Choice

Which is an example of a statistic?

• Today is February 1, 2021

• 25% of 16-years old voted in the last election.

• He is 16-years old.

Expert Testimony

Information from someone who knows a lot about a subject

Example: a doctor giving medical advice; a lawyer giving legal advice

Expert Testimony is an ethos appeal (credibility)

Multiple Choice

Which would be expert testimony?

• My mom doesn't think teenage brains are fully developed.

• The neurosurgeon (brain doctor) explained that teenage brains aren't fully developed.

• Ms. Maguire argued that teenage brains aren't fully developed.

Anecdote (personal story)

Don't get confused by the word - you use anecdotes all the time!

Anecdotes are a pathos appeal (emotional)

Multiple Choice

Which of these is an example of an anecdote?

• 25% of teenagers voted.

• Research from Stanford University suggests that 16-year olds' brains are not fully developed.

• I am a teenager who has been active in my community and would vote if given the chance.

One kind of evidence is not "best"

A strong argument could use all 4 types