Track the Development of an Argument

Introduction to Academic Reading and Writing

Session 2 (Unit 3 + 4 Review)

Learning outcomes

By the end of this session, you will be able to:

• review academic argument construction
• evaluate the clarity, persuasiveness, and evidence integration in

arguments.

• practice drafting arguments and giving feedback on structure,

content, and language.

1) Warm-up activity

Answer the following questions to reinforce your understanding of argument structures, types of evidence, and appropriate language for academic argumentation

Multiple Choice

Which of the following best describes a claim in an argument?

• The main point or position that the author is trying to prove.

• A specific fact supporting the author's position.

• A summary of someone else's argument.

Multiple Choice

What is the purpose of including a counterargument in an essay?

• To strengthen the opposing side of an argument.

• To acknowledge opposing views and respond to them.

• To confuse the reader with additional, unrelated information.

Multiple Choice

Which of these phrases would best introduce a counterargument?

• "As a result, …”

• “It is also important to note that …”

• “Some may argue that …”

Multiple Choice

Which phrase is most appropriate for introducing evidence?

• “According to …”

• “This suggests that …”

• “In contrast …”

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is a benefit of using a quote as evidence?

• Quotes add length to an argument.

• Quotes provide exact wording to strengthen a claim.

• Quotes summarize the main ideas effectively.

Multiple Choice

When paraphrasing a source, which of the following should you avoid?

• Restating the main idea in your own words

• Changing the structure of the sentence while keeping the original meaning

• Copying the exact words without quotation marks

• Citing the original source

Multiple Choice

What function does a refutation serve in an argument?

• It supports the claim.

• It provides evidence for the reason.

• It addresses and argues against a counterargument.

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is an example of an effective refutation?

• "The argument presented here is weak."

• "This opposing view is incorrect."

• "The claim lacks evidence and should be disregarded."

• "While some may argue against this point, recent studies show otherwise."

2) Evaluating Arguments

In groups, examine the texts assigned and evaluate the arguments made by looking at elements like the clarity of claims, the strength of reasoning, and the effectiveness of counterarguments.

(15 minutes)

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3) Drafting Arguments

Using the same texts assigned to your group in Activity 2, rewrite the argument, applying the strengths and techniques observed in the Demo. Focus on improving clarity, adding well-supported evidence, and refining counterarguments to improve coherence and credibility.

Click on "Add comment" below to record your response.

(30 minutes)

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4) Peer Review

Examine and comment on each other's arguments from Activity 3 according to this structure:

Group 1 <-> Group 2
Group 3 <-> Group 4
Group 5 <-> Group 6

(10 minutes)

Next session

• November 5th

• Unit 5 (Starting the writing process)

For any questions or concerns,

please contact me at:

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