Tracing an Argument and Evidence (02/09)

Choose ALL the steps in tracing an argument (three total).

• Identify the hook.

• Identify the evidence that supports the reasons.

• Identify the reasons.

• Identify the claim.

Which of the following reasons is NOT why we use evidence?

• To prove our claim/thesis/position to our reader

• To help our writing be more credible and trustworthy for our reader

• To allow your reader to fact-check your information (through your citations)

• To make our essay look longer to the reader

Which of the following is NOT a correct way to cite evidence?

• (topic, point)

• (Author's last name, paragraph number)

• (Source Number)

• ("Title," paragraph number)

Claim: Dogs are the superior pet because they are very smart.

Which piece of evidence BEST supports this claim?

• Dogs can learn all sorts of interesting tricks.

• Dogs are often used during therapy sessions to cheer people up.

• Dogs are extremely loyal to their owners.

• Children and teenagers can learn responsibility by taking care of their very own dog.

Claim: When we use computers during the school day, we can get assignments done more quickly so that we can move on to other things.

Which piece of evidence BEST supports this claim?

• Keeping track of a laptop will teach students to be more responsible.

• Typing is shown to be faster than manually writing, on average.

• Students can use laptops to communicate with their peers.

• Some students might need extra help learning how to use their laptops.

According to Zhou, which is NOT a reason zoos should be banned?

• Zoos breed animals inhumanely.

• Zoos help educate the public about wildlife protection.

• Zoos do not provide enough resources for the animals in their care.

• Zoos do not effectively help animals get back into the wild.

Claim: Animals in zoos can suffer physically and mentally.

Which piece of evidence BEST supports this claim?

• "Most of a wild animal's needs cannot be met in unnatural, man-made environments" (Orens, 18).

• "Many animals show signs of...a psychological disorder...that leads to pacing, bar biting, and other obsessive behaviors" (Zhou, 9).

• "Animals cannot live full, healthy lives in captivity" (Zhou, 9).

• "Zoos' efforts take scientists around the world" (Miller, 4).

Which piece of evidence is cited INCORRECTLY?

• "Most of a wild animal's needs cannot be met in unnatural, man-made environments" (Orens, 18).

• "Many animals show signs of...a psychological disorder...that leads to pacing, bar biting, and other obsessive behaviors" (Zhou, 9).

• "Animals cannot live full, healthy lives in captivity" (Zoos).

• "Zoos' efforts take scientists around the world" (Miller, 4).