Argumentative Writing Skills

What is the main claim in an argumentative writing piece?

• The central point or thesis that the writer is trying to prove or persuade the reader to accept.

• The conclusion of the writing piece

• The background information of the topic

• The writer's personal opinion

How can you recognize supporting evidence in an argumentative writing?

• Listen to emotional appeals

• Look for personal anecdotes

• Ignore any references to experts

• Look for facts, statistics, examples, expert opinions, and logical reasoning

What is the difference between fact and opinion in argumentative writing?

• Facts are always objective, while opinions are always subjective

• Facts can be proven true or false, while opinions are personal beliefs or judgments.

• Facts are always universal, while opinions are always personal

• Facts are always based on evidence, while opinions are based on assumptions

Why is it important to understand counterarguments in argumentative writing?

• To avoid addressing opposing viewpoints

• To confuse the reader

• To address potential opposing viewpoints and make the argument more persuasive.

• To make the argument less persuasive

Identify the main claim in the following sentence: 'School uniforms should be mandatory for all students.'

• School uniforms should be mandatory for all students.

• School uniforms have no impact on student behavior.

• School uniforms should only be optional for students.

• School uniforms are unnecessary for students.

Which of the following is an example of supporting evidence in an argumentative writing: a) statistics on the benefits of exercise, b) personal opinion on the best type of music, c) a story about a family vacation?

• a) statistics on the benefits of exercise

• d) a list of favorite foods

• b) personal opinion on the best type of music

• c) a story about a family vacation

Distinguish between fact and opinion in the following statement: 'Chocolate ice cream is the best flavor.'

• Chocolate ice cream is the healthiest flavor.

• Chocolate ice cream is the most popular flavor.

• The statement 'Chocolate ice cream is the best flavor' is an opinion.

• Chocolate ice cream is the worst flavor.

Explain the concept of counterarguments in argumentative writing with an example.

• In a debate about technology in education, a counterargument could be that technology has no benefits.

• Counterarguments in argumentative writing are used to acknowledge and address potential objections or alternative perspectives. For example, in a debate about the benefits of technology in education, a counterargument could be that excessive screen time may have negative effects on students' mental health.

• Counterarguments are not necessary in argumentative writing.

• Counterarguments are used to support the main argument without addressing any opposing views.

Identify the main claim in the following sentence: 'Social media has a negative impact on mental health.'

• Social media has a positive impact on mental health.

• Social media has no impact on mental health.

• Social media has a negative impact on mental health.

• Social media has a positive impact on physical health.

Why is it important to address counterarguments in an argumentative writing piece?

• To show that the writer has considered different perspectives and strengthen the overall argument.

• To avoid addressing different perspectives

• To make the argument weaker

• To confuse the reader