Elements of an Argument

The writer's position or opinion on an issue or problem.

• support

• claim

• counterargument

• reasons

Support that the writer provides to back up the claim. This can include statistics, examples, and facts.

• point of view

• claim

• argument

• evidence

The writer's response to opposing opinions. These responses show that the writer's position is stronger.

• counterarguments

• support

• claim

• argument

An argument is:

• a claim supported by evidence.

• an opinion without evidence.

• evidence supported by a clame.

A counterargument is...

• a claim that disagrees with the writer's claim; the opponents opinion.

• a claim that supports the argument.

Which of these choices would make the best argument?

• Dogs are better than cats.

• Dogs are better than cats because the show their love, are better to cuddle with, and are loyal.

• Dogs are better than cats because evidence agrees with me.

A claim is a statement or opinion on a specific issue that needs to be proved.

• True

• False

Which one is the claim?

• Pepsi is a product of PepsiCo, Inc.

• Pepsi has a better flavor that Coca Cola

Evidence (support) can include statistics, facts, and examples.

Which one is an example of evidence?

• Pepsi sales worldwide in 2019 was 67 billion dollars.

• Pepsi has good flavor.

Which one is a claim?

• 77% of all students don't like school lunch.

• Schools should serve what students want to eat.