Claims and Counterclaims

What is a claim?

• your position in an argument

• the closing statement

• the opposing view of your claim

• evidence

What is a counterclaim?

• your position in an argument

• the closing statement

• the opposing view of your claim

• the counter where you claim something

What is a rebuttal?

• a response to the counterclaim that weakens the opposing view

• words used to make paragraphs flow smoothly

• support for the counterclaim

• evidence

Identify the COUNTERCLAIM to this claim:

Students should be able to eat snacks in class.

• Chewing gum raises test scores.

• Teachers argue that food is a distraction to students.

• Studies show that eating during class keeps students focused.

• Eating during school hours is important.

Why do we include counterclaims?

• To anticipate the argument from the opposing side

• To prevent bias

• To show what you know and strengthen your argument

• All of the above

Rebuttal should come before the counterclaim.

• True

• False

One side of an argument could have more than one rebuttal.

• True

• False

Counterarguments and rebuttal belong in EVERY essay, not just argumentative essays.

• True

• False

What is the underlined section? College athletes should be paid. Some might argue that a free education is a kind of payment, but the athletes still need money for food, medical bills, and entertainment.

• claim

• counterclaim

• rebuttal

• evidence

What is the underlined section? People should exercise more. Some might argue that there isn't enough time, but exercising gives you more time because it helps be more alert and efficient throughout the day.

• claim

• counterclaim

• rebuttal

• evidence