Understanding Claims and Arguments

What is a claim?

• A statement that expresses a personal opinion

• A fact that can be proven

• A statement that can be supported with evidence

• A question that seeks information

Which of the following is a counterclaim?

• The main argument of an essay

• An argument that goes against the main claim

• Evidence that supports the claim

• A summary of the argument

What is the purpose of a rebuttal?

• To introduce new claims

• To support the counterclaim

• To refute an opposing argument

• To summarize the conclusion

Which sentence is an example of a claim?

• Many people believe that exercise is important.

• Exercise improves mental health and physical fitness.

• Some people think exercise is overrated.

• What do you think about exercise?

What is the role of evidence in an argument?

• To confuse the reader

• To support the claim with facts and examples

• To state the counterclaim

• To provide opinions

Which of the following helps to clarify the relationship between a claim and its reasons?

• Rhetorical questions

• Transitional words and phrases

• Irrelevant details

• Personal anecdotes

What does it mean to maintain a formal style in writing?

• Using slang and informal language

• Writing in a casual and friendly tone

• Using academic language and avoiding contractions

• Making jokes throughout the essay

What should a concluding statement do in an argumentative essay?

• Introduce a new argument

• Summarize the main points and restate the claim

• Provide unrelated information

• Ask the reader a question

Which of the following is NOT a credible source?

• A peer-reviewed journal article

• A personal blog with no references

• A government report

• A published book by an expert

What is the best way to organize an argumentative essay?

• Randomly arranging paragraphs

• Introducing the claim, providing reasons and evidence, and concluding

• Starting with the conclusion and working backward

• Listing all reasons first, then the claim