Claim Reasons Evidence

What is a claim?

• A statement that shows a side of an argument

• Something that supports an argument

• The last paragraph in an essay

• Something that shows where the information came from.

Answer explanation

A claim is the big idea of an argument. It is a statement that summarizes your whole argument.

What is a reason?

• The big idea in an argument

• Something that is in MLA format

• Something that supports the claim and is backed up by evidence

• The opening statement in an essay

Answer explanation

A reason is an explanation of why your argument is "right." Think of a claim then add "because" to show your reasons. Example: School lunches should be free because students are required to be at school.

What is evidence?

• A topic sentence in a paragraph

• Something that supports a reason

• Facts that can be verified and explained

• A small animal that lives in the forest

Answer explanation

Evidence usually comes from trusted sources. It can be verified and is factual. Think of our T.R.U.S.T acronym when finding evidence.

What is a counterclaim?

• Pieces of evidence from trusted sources

• Something that supports your argument.

• The other side of an argument that you need to refute to strengthen your argument.

• A statement from someone who agrees with you

Answer explanation

A counterclaim is what others who disagree with your argument might say. Refuting (proofing them wrong) strengthens your argument.

Write a claim about school lunches.

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Which option is an example of a counterclaim, if the claim is "Schools should allow cellphones during lunch"

• Schools should not allow cellphones during lunch.

• Many schools allow cellphones during lunch.

• Students will turn in less homework.

• According to The Washington Post, 25% of students use their cellphones during school hours.

Answer explanation

This is the only statement that shows a side of an argument. The other statements don't show one side. They are reasons or pieces of evidence that could be used in an argument.

A piece of _______ comes from a credible source

• Counterclaim

• evidence

• Reasons

• Claim

A _______ is another side of your argument and must be refuted in order to strengthen your argument.

• Claim

• Evidence

• Reason

• Counterclaim

Type a counterclaim to this claim: Schools should start at 7:15 for high school students.

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What is this an example of? According to Psychology Today, "The sleep experts suggest the appropriate sleep duration for teenagers is eight to 10 hours per night."

• Claim

• Reason

• Evidence

• Walrus