Deconstructing an Argument

What is a claim in an argument?

• A random thought that the arguer has

• A statement that the arguer believes to be false

• A question that the arguer is trying to answer

• A statement that the arguer believes or asserts to be true

How can you evaluate evidence and reasoning in an argument?

• By ignoring the sources and focusing only on the emotional appeal of the argument

• By accepting the evidence without questioning its validity

• By relying solely on the popularity of the argument rather than its logic

• By considering the credibility of the sources, the logic of the reasoning, and the relevance of the evidence to the argument.

Give an example of evidence in an argument.

• Personal beliefs

• Rumors

• Statistics, research findings, expert opinions, or specific examples

• Emotional appeals

What are some common rhetorical devices used in arguments?

• Personal attacks, emotional manipulation, false information

• Subjective opinions, statistical data, factual evidence

• Ethos, pathos, logos,

• Metaphors, similes, alliteration

What are reasons in an argument?

• Random thoughts

• Personal opinions

• Unrelated facts

• Justifications or evidence provided to support a claim or conclusion

How can bias affect an argument?

• Bias can make the argument more balanced and fair

• Bias can only strengthen the argument

• Bias can affect an argument by influencing the selection and interpretation of evidence, leading to a skewed or one-sided presentation of information.

• Bias has no impact on an argument

Explain the difference between strong and weak evidence in an argument.

• Weak evidence is more convincing and reliable, while strong evidence is less reliable.

• Strong evidence is more reliable and convincing, while weak evidence is less reliable and may not fully support the argument.

• Strong evidence is equally as reliable as weak evidence in supporting an argument.

• Strong evidence is less reliable and may not fully support the argument.

What are some ways to identify bias in an argument?

• Examining language, selective use of evidence, and source biases

• Asking for opinions from friends and family

• Counting the number of words in the argument

• Ignoring the language and evidence used

Why is it important to consider evidence and reasoning when evaluating an argument?

• To save time and effort in constructing the argument

• To confuse the audience and make the argument more interesting

• To ensure that the argument is logical, valid, and supported by facts.

• To make the argument more emotional and persuasive

Provide an example of a claim with strong evidence and reasoning.

• The Earth is round because my friend said so and I trust him.

• The Earth is round because there is photographic evidence from space, scientific measurements, and mathematical calculations that support this claim.

• The Earth is round because I saw it in a dream and dreams never lie.

• The Earth is flat because some people believe it and there are some photos that seem to show a flat horizon.