AP Seminar Argument Development

Explain the difference between a claim and a thesis statement in an argument.

• A claim is a question, while a thesis statement is a statement.

• A claim is a statement that asserts a point, while a thesis statement is a sentence that summarizes the main point or claim of an essay or research paper.

• A claim is a fact, while a thesis statement is an opinion.

• A claim is a conclusion, while a thesis statement is a supporting detail.

What are the key components of an effective argument?

• Emotional manipulation and personal attacks

• Clear and logical reasoning, credible evidence, counterarguments, and a strong conclusion

• Vague and unsupported claims

• Ignoring opposing viewpoints and evidence

Discuss the importance of evidence in supporting an argument.

• Evidence is irrelevant in supporting an argument

• Using evidence makes the argument less convincing

• It is better to rely on personal opinions rather than evidence

• Evidence provides credibility and validity to the claims being made.

How can counterclaims strengthen an argument?

• By using emotional language and personal attacks to discredit the opposing viewpoints.

• By acknowledging opposing viewpoints and addressing potential weaknesses in the argument.

• By ignoring opposing viewpoints and only focusing on the strengths of the argument.

• By avoiding addressing any potential weaknesses in the argument and only presenting one side.

Explain the concept of warrant in argument development.

• The warrant in argument development is the reasoning or justification that connects the evidence to the claim.

• The warrant in argument development is the physical evidence that supports the claim.

• The warrant in argument development is the background information about the topic.

• The warrant in argument development is the emotional appeal used to persuade the audience.

What role does reasoning play in developing a strong argument?

• Logical and rational support

• Unsubstantiated claims

• Random thoughts

• Emotional appeal

Discuss the significance of acknowledging different perspectives in argument development.

• It leads to a narrow and biased analysis of the topic.

• It allows for a more comprehensive and well-rounded analysis of the topic.

• It complicates the argument development process.

• It has no impact on the quality of argument development.

How can the use of rhetorical devices enhance an argument?

• By making the argument more confusing and forgettable for the audience.

• By making the argument more persuasive, engaging, and memorable for the audience.

• By making the argument more offensive and disrespectful for the audience.

• By making the argument less credible and unconvincing for the audience.

Explain the process of evaluating the credibility of sources in argument development.

• Only consider the popularity of the publication

• Ignore the author's expertise

• Consider the author's expertise, publication's reputation, timeliness of information, and potential biases.

• Base credibility on the length of the publication

Discuss the ethical considerations in presenting an argument.

• Ethical considerations are irrelevant when presenting an argument

• Use any means necessary to win the argument, regardless of ethical concerns

• Ignore the ethical implications and focus solely on the argument's effectiveness

• Consider the ethical implications of the information being presented