Understanding Argumentative Terms

Read the example and identify the part in red as the claim, reason, or evidence.
Ex. Cats make better pets because you do not have to walk them. Cats are able to go to the bathroom in a litter box all by themselves.

• Claim

• Reasoning

• Evidence

• Point of View

Read the example and identify the part in red as the claim, reason, or evidence.
Eating vegetables are healthy alternatives to chips because they provide a good source of fiber and protein. According to a study on eating vegetables, "88% of people that eat vegetables daily feel healthier and digest food better."

• Claim

• Reason

• Evidence

• Point of View

Identify the counterclaim to this claim: Students should be able to eat snacks in class.

• Chewing gum raises test scores

• Studies show eating during class keeps students focused

• Teachers argue food distracts students

• Eating during school hours is important

What is argumentative writing?

• A verbal or written fight between people.

• Writing used to argue one's point and convince others that it is the best argument or view.

• Writing that does not include research.

support the claim; why an author makes a claim

• Evidence

• Reasons

• Counterclaim

• Refute the Counterclaim

information from the text that supports each reason

• Claim

• Introduction

• Evidence

• Reasons

to prove the counterclaim wrong with evidence and reasons

• Claim

• Conclusion

• Refute the Counterclaim

• Counterclaim

the argument that the author is making; to choose a side

• Counterclaim

• Reasons

• Evidence

• Claim

the opposing argument of the claim

• Evidence

• Refute the Counterclaim

• Counterclaim

• Claim

a paragraph that restates the claim and summarizes the essay

• Introduction

• Conclusion

• Claim

• Evidence