Supporting Author's Claims

Which of the following is EVIDENCE used to support the author's claim: 'Surveillance cameras lowered Baltimore, Maryland's crime rate by almost twenty-five percent.'?

• Surveillance cameras were installed in various neighborhoods.

• Surveillance cameras lowered Baltimore, Maryland's crime rate by almost twenty-five percent.

• Crime rates in other cities increased during the same period.

• Residents reported feeling safer after the cameras were installed.

What is a claim?

• A point the author is trying to prove with evidence.

• A statement that is universally accepted as true.

• An opinion that cannot be supported by facts.

• A question posed to provoke thought.

What should evidence include?

• Facts or information that helps us figure out whether a belief or claim is true.

• Personal opinions and beliefs that support a claim.

• A collection of anecdotes and stories related to the claim.

• Statistical data that is not relevant to the claim.

What is a counterclaim?

• An argument that supports the author's claim.

• An argument that opposes the author's claim.

• A statement that summarizes the author's main point.

• A question posed to challenge the author's argument.

Why is it important to identify the author's claim?

• It helps readers understand the main point the author is trying to make.

• It allows readers to ignore the author's perspective.

• It makes the text longer and more complex.

• It provides a summary of the author's biography.

What is the purpose of supporting evidence in a text?

• To provide reasons and facts that back up the author's claim.

• To summarize the main points of the text.

• To introduce new ideas unrelated to the text.

• To entertain the reader with interesting anecdotes.

What is the difference between a fact and an opinion?

• A fact is a personal belief, while an opinion can be proven true or false.

• A fact can be proven true or false, while an opinion is a personal belief.

• A fact is always subjective, while an opinion is objective.

• A fact is an assumption, while an opinion is a certainty.

What claim might the author be making using this evidence: 'Ice cream can cool you off on a hot summer day'?

• Ice cream is the best dessert of the summer.

• Ice cream is unhealthy for you.

• Ice cream is only enjoyed by children.

• Ice cream should be eaten in winter.

What is an example of a weak claim?

• Chocolate is the best flavor because I like it.

• Vanilla is the most popular ice cream flavor worldwide.

• Strawberry is the healthiest flavor due to its vitamins.

• Mint chocolate chip is the most refreshing flavor on a hot day.

How can you tell if evidence is strong?

• If it is based on reliable sources and relevant facts.

• If it is presented in a persuasive manner.

• If it is widely accepted by the public.

• If it is easy to understand.