Strengthening Your Argument: Using Clarifying Strategies in Essay Writing

The video tutorial explains how to use clarifying strategies to strengthen arguments in essay writing. It introduces the use of clarifying questions like who, what, when, how, and why, and emphasizes the importance of pairing statements with explanations. The tutorial outlines steps to clarify points, including rereading paragraphs, researching for evidence, and revising essays. An example is provided to demonstrate how to use evidence and transitions to clarify a paragraph. The lesson concludes with a review of the steps to ensure arguments are well-supported and clear.

What is the main purpose of using clarifying questions in essay writing?

• To confuse the reader

• To avoid using evidence

• To strengthen the argument

• To make the essay longer

Which of the following is NOT a step in clarifying points in essay writing?

• Researching for more evidence

• Rereading each paragraph

• Revising to include new evidence

• Ignoring the reader's questions

In the example provided, why do some students not bring packed lunches?

• They prefer cafeteria food

• They dislike packed lunches

• They are not allowed or cannot afford it

• They forget to pack

What evidence was used to explain why students might not pack lunches?

• A ban on packed lunches in some schools

• A study on cafeteria food quality

• A report on student preferences

• A survey of teachers

What transition word was used to build on the point about students not packing lunches?

• Consequently

• However

• Moreover

• Therefore