Acknowledge Opposing Views in Argumentative Writing

This lesson teaches how to acknowledge opposing viewpoints in writing by conceding weaknesses in your argument. It covers the structure of persuasive writing, including thesis statements and body paragraphs, and provides steps to effectively concede an argument. An example is given using the topic of banning cell phones in schools, demonstrating how to acknowledge a weakness and reinforce the argument's validity. The lesson concludes with a summary of the key points.

What is the primary goal of persuasive writing?

• To summarize different viewpoints without bias

• To provide entertainment to the reader

• To convince the reader to agree with the author's opinion

• To present facts only

What is the function of a thesis statement in persuasive writing?

• To list the sources of information

• To provide a summary of the essay

• To state the author's opinion and outline support

• To conclude the argument

What should a writer do first when conceding an argument?

• Consider weaknesses in their argument

• Ignore the weaknesses

• Conclude the argument immediately

• Highlight only the strengths

Which of the following is a concession transition?

• Therefore

• However

• Granted

• Moreover

Why might a writer choose to acknowledge a weakness in their argument?

• To change the topic

• To confuse the reader

• To strengthen their position

• To weaken their argument

In the provided example, what is the main reason for banning cell phones in class?

• Students use them to cheat

• They are not useful

• They are expensive

• They disrupt classes

What alternative solution is suggested in the example regarding cell phones in class?

• Allowing unrestricted use

• Ignoring the issue

• Banning them completely

• Finding other ways to solve disruptions

What is a critical step after acknowledging a weakness in your argument?

• Changing the argument completely

• Ignoring the weakness

• Ending the discussion

• Explaining why the argument is still valid

How does the example conclude on the cell phone ban despite acknowledging alternatives?

• By recommending stricter rules

• By reinforcing the complete ban

• By suggesting a partial ban

• By allowing students to decide

What is the ultimate goal of acknowledging an opposing viewpoint in persuasive writing?

• To disregard the main argument

• To demonstrate understanding and depth

• To shift the reader's focus

• To reduce the essay's effectiveness