Parts of an Argument

This part of an argument sometimes contains results of a study or research.

• claim

• reason

• evidence

• reasoning

• counterargument

the statement of your position, or opinion, on an issue; what you want others to understand or agree with.

• claim

• reason

• evidence

• reasoning

• counterargument

This part of an argument sometimes contains expert opinions.

• claim

• reason

• evidence

• reasoning

• counterargument

This part of an argument often contains the word “should.”

• claim

• reason

• evidence

• reasoning

• counterargument

This disproves opposing ideas or claims that other people have made about the topic.  This means they are proven wrong.

• claim

• reason

• evidence

• reasoning

• counterargument

What is the purpose of a counterclaim?

• Shows that you are smart.

• Shows that you have considered the other side of the argument.

• Shows that only your opinion matters.

• Shows that you are only discussing one side of the argument.

Using evidence to support your claim makes your ideas ____________.

• right

• wrong

• weaker

• stronger

Why do you need to know what a counterclaim to your argument might be?

• To help the reader see both sides of the argument.

• So you can disprove the counterclaim with reasons and evidence.

• To show that you are fair.

• Just in case you forget what you are arguing for.

Which of the following describe a reason?

• a point that explains why you can take a certain position on a controversial issue

• proof that your point is true

• what the other side would argue

Which of the following describe claim?

• the thesis or main idea of an argument

• what the other side would say

• your answer to what the other side would say