Tracing and Evaluating an Argument

What does it mean to "evaluate" an argument?

• to disagree with the argument

• to respond to the argument

• to decide whether it makes sense and is convincing

• to provide a counterargument 

Which part of an argument presents "the other side of the argument"?

• claim

• counterclaim

• evidence

• reasoning

Which part of an argument presents supports your reasons with proof?

• claim

• counterclaim

• evidence

• reasoning

Which part of an argument is what you think is TRUE based on what you know and your research?

• claim

• counterclaim

• evidence

• reasoning

the strength of an argument relies on

• the content of initial claim

• the support or evidence defending the claim

Use the following claim to respond to the question: "Though parents have reason to believe violent video games are harmful, it may actually be other media sources that are dangerous." Which piece of evidence below is relevant to the claim?

• “It was never clear which games might fall under the

  law, or whose job it would be to decide.”

• “We know virtually nothing, for instance, about how youths who are already prone to violent behavior, such as those exposed to violence at home and in their neighborhoods, use these games.”

• “And there is much better evidence to support psychological harm

  from exposure to violence on TV news”

Addresses why your side is stronger, more correct than the other side you just acknowledged

• Counterclaim

• Reason

• Rebuttal/turn back.

• Argument

In an argument, a rebuttal should always be included with a counterclaim.

• True

• False

Is this an example of claim, reason or evidence: People should be paid the same amount of money, regardless of gender, race, etc.

• reason

• evidence

• claim

What is the primary purpose of tracing an argument in a text?

• To identify the main claim and supporting evidence

• To summarize the text

• To critique the author's writing style

• To find grammatical errors