Identifying Claims Practice

What is a claim?

• A position or opinion on a topic

• Facts, Figures, and Expert opinions

• An explanation of how the evidence supports the argument

• Highest point of interest in a story

What is the claim of this paragraph:

Baseball has always been America's favorite pastime. Professional baseball's National and American Leagues were established in 1871, while football and basketball didn't make their debuts until the mid-20th century! For decades, baseball has provided a source of joy, pride, and connection for our country. It has stood the test of time through many significant events in America's history.

• Baseball is older than football and basketball.

• Baseball has been around for centuries.

• Many hallmark memories for kids are formed at the ballpark.

• Baseball is America's favorite pastime.

What is the claim of this paragraph:

Female athletes looking to get an athletic scholarship for college might consider developing their soccer game. Almost 10% of female high school soccer players make the cut at the college level. In contrast, only 7% of male high school soccer players play at the college level. Unfortunately, only 5% of volleyball players get college scholarships, and the statistics are even lower for basketball.

• It is difficult to play sports at the college level.

• Females should play soccer if they want to get an athletic scholarship.

• College sports are not for everyone.

• Male athletes have lower odds of receiving athletic scholarships than female athletes.

What is the claim in this paragraph:

The pitcher may be the most important position in baseball because pitching makes the difference between won and lost games. Because of this, professional pitchers receive the highest pay of any player in the MLB. In order for a major league team to go from good to great, they need to start with securing an above-average pitcher. After that, building a stacked lineup is the next best thing.

• Hitting averages do not matter in baseball.

• Pitchers receive the highest pay in the MLB.

• The pitcher is the most important player in baseball.

• Having a bad pitcher can cause a team to lose the game.

What is the claim in this paragraph:

Many middle schools have various extracurricular sports available, and they encourage students to get involved. However, that's not to say there aren't drawbacks. Sports can be time-consuming, and while it's important to make time for team sports, it's also important to keep up on schoolwork. There is also an additional cost to participate. These additional costs to individual athletes and their families can be a burden.

• It's important to get involved.

• Playing sports can be expensive.

• Homework and studying come second to sports.

• It's important to consider the drawbacks and the benefits of playing sports.