Identifying the Parts of an Argument

An argument consists of:

• Claims, evidence, support.
• Claim, reasons, evidence, and counterargument.

• Claims and reasons
• Claims and evidence.

A claim is...

• The writer’s position on an issue.

• Proof that something is true.

• A main idea, supported by reasons and evidence.

A counterargument is...

• A claim that disagrees with the writer’s claim; the opponent’s opinion.

• A claim that supports the argument

What is is purpose of an argument?

• To prove that your opinion is correct.

• To make a claim about an issue.

• To yell at someone until they agree with you.

Evidence is....

• statistics, numbers, or sources which support the reasons

• details 
• Reasons why your claim is true

• made up by the person making the claim

This is a claim that is in opposition of or that goes against the claim made by the writer.

• claim

• evidence

• counterargument

• reasons

Jim found an article that proves the health benefits of eating donuts at least once a day. He has found...

• claim
• counterclaim
• evidence
• reasoning 

Which one is the writer's position or opinion on an issue?

• claim
• counterargument

• reasons
• evidence

This supports the reasons and includes examples, anecdotes, statistics, and facts.

• claim

• counterclaim

• reasons

• evidence

This disproves the opposing viewpoint and explains why the opponent is wrong.

• claim

• counterargument

• reasons

• evidence