WorksheetsRI.8 Arguments & Claims
Total questions: 97
Worksheet time: 2hrs 34mins
__________________________ means to find the value or worth.
Argue
To trace
Claim
Evaluate
Define evidence.
Analyze the text.
Because
To find the proof
None of the above
Select the examples of evidence.
Arguments
Analogies
Direct quotes from experts
All of the above
A good argument will include reasons and ______________.
Justifications
Evidence
Arguments
All of the above
How does an author prove his claim?
Tracing and evaluating
Notes and journals
Reasons and Evidence
Arguments and analogies
Read the passage and identify the claim.
Twinkies taste better than other snack cakes because of their texture, their creamy filling, and their golden appearance.
What is the claim in the paragraph above?
Their texture is what makes them the best.
Their creamy filling is what makes them better than others.
Twinkies are nasty.
Twinkies taste better than other snack cakes.
Select the 3 parts of an argument.
Claims
Fact
Argument
Evidence
Determining the author's argument, determining the claims, and identifying the evidence are the steps needed to analyze and identify an argument.
True
False
Which word below means to outline your steps.
Evaluate
Trace
Fact
Opinion
Evidence means the available body of facts or information indicating whether a belief or proposition is true or valid.
True
False
Something that actually exists; reality; truth.
Argument
Opinion
Claim
Fact
The writer's position on an issue or problem.
Argument
Claim
Evaluate
Trace
A statement put forth and supported by claims, reasons, and evidence.
Evidence
Reason
Claim
Argument
Evidence and reasoning _____________________ support a claim.
may or may not
period
Can't really tell
will always
the writer's position on an issue or problem is called
claim
evidence
counterargument
reasons
Your position or opinion on a topic is...
a direct quote
a rebuttal
a claim
textual evidence
This supports a claim using a reliable source.
paraphrasing
counterargument
thesis statement
textual evidence
Which piece of evidence BEST supports the claim above?
Define: argument
an attempt to persuade others to agree with an idea or course of action
a claim
the evidence for a claim
a statement made by an expert or authority on a subject
a logical appeal supported by reasons and evidence
claim
evidence
counterargument
argument
an argument made to address likely objections
support
claim
evidence
counterargument
Why is it important to include the counterargument in your essay?
the reader will convince you
it helps prove your claim by proving the opposite side of the argument is weak
it helps your essay be longer
You can show the reader that the other side is also right
the writer's position on an issue or problem is called
claim
evidence
counterargument
reasons
Words best used to qualify based on quantity include
often, generally, rarely
unlikely, potentially
many, most
some, always
What is a claim?
The author’s main point.
A statement the author believes is true.
Facts and statistics that support their position.
When the author can be trusted.
A claim must be arguable.
True
False
What is relevant evidence?
Facts, Statistics, Quotes, and Expert opinions the author uses to support their claim.
Evidence that is not related to the topic.
When reasons the author explains why the counterclaim is not as strong as the claim.
A statement that can be argued.
What is a counterclaim?
The opposite viewpoint of the author’s claim.
The author's main point.
A statement the author believes is true.
Facts, quotes, statistics, and expert opinions the author uses to support their claim.
What is a rebuttal?
When the author responds directly to the counterclaim and provides reasons why their point is superior.
Proof that the author can be trusted.
The author's main point.
Facts, statistics, quotes, and expert opinions that support the author's main point.
What does it mean to be credible?
When the reader can be believe and trust the author.
When the author states their main point.
When the reader can understand the counterclaim.
When the author shares personal stories to support their claim.
What does a reader need to look for to determine the credibility of the author?
The author’s credentials and background
Where the article was published
Cited and reliable evidence used to support the claim
If the author used a counterclaim.
What is an argument?
When the author wants to convenience you on their position.
What the author uses to support their claim.
The author's main point.
The opposite viewpoint of the author’s claim.
FOOD DEPRIVATION DOESN'T WORK
Regardless of which parental technique is correct, the research is clear. Penn State University research shows, however, that girls who have treats on a regular basis eat less of these foods when they are offered them. They also tend to be slimmer. Another study from the Netherlands compared the eating behaviors of children who were told they couldn't have sweets, couldn't have fruit or were permitted to eat what they wanted. The restricted groups wanted more of the foods they weren't allowed to have and ate more overall. This suggests that a deprivation mentality backfires when it comes to teaching self-regulation and weight management.
Which quote from the selection supports the claim that food deprivation does not work?
A. “They also tend to be slimmer.”
B. “The restricted groups wanted more of the foods they weren’t allowed to have and ate more overall.”
C. “Another study from the Netherlands compared the eating behaviors of children who were told they couldn't have sweets, couldn't have fruit, or were permitted to eat what they wanted.”
D. “Regardless of which parental technique is correct, the research is clear.”
HALLOWEEN CANDY
Halloween has always been my favorite holiday. As a child, I looked forward all year to dressing up and going trick-or-treating. I still love putting on costumes and carving pumpkins. But as much as I love the holiday, it also has its share of detractors. There is plenty of debate about whether parents should limit their kids' access to Halloween activities and candy, in the name of fending off a lifetime of sugar cravings or let them eat their fill. With childhood obesity on the rise, many parents are eager to limit added sugars in their children's diets, which approach is best for helping kids learn healthy eating habits?
How does the author support her claim that parents should limit their children’s intake of Halloween candy?
A. By debating about the pros and cons of sugar intake.
B. By explaining that Halloween is a tradition that should be followed each year.
C.By stating a problem with children’s weight increases.
D. By encouraging parents to eat healthy foods
Boston
The city of Boston in Massachusetts has a charm that is hard to find elsewhere. It has a vibrant and lively atmosphere that makes a visitor feel at home. Boston officially became a city in 1822, which makes it one of the oldest cities in America. Today, it is the economic and cultural center of New England. Boston's coastal location ensures that it enjoys a temperate climate. Summers are warm and sunny, and there is no better feeling than to walk around the city on a summer day.
There's so much to do and see in Boston! The city has a rich, historic past, and is a treat for anyone who loves history. The Freedom Trail in Boston is one of America's first historic walking tours. The trail passes through 16 locations that have some significance in America's history. Some of these locations include Boston Common, the Old State House, and the Paul Revere House. The trail can be covered on foot or in a trolley. You can choose to see the trail by yourself or join one of the guided tours. However, the best way to experience the trail is by walking along it and taking the time to see and appreciate everything. If you are not a fan of history, Boston offers a lot of other options too. If you happen to visit Boston in the summer, there are numerous feasts and festivals happening all over the city, which will give you an opportunity to experience the local culture. Boston welcomes all its visitors with open arms and will make you want to stay forever!
Which statement from the passage best sums up the writer's main argument?
A. The city has a rich, historic past, and is a treat for anyone who loves history.
B. Boston officially became a city in 1822, which makes it one of the oldest cities in America.
C. The Freedom Trail in Boston is one of America's first historic walking tours.
D. Boston welcomes all its visitors with open arms and will make you want to stay forever!
Bon Junko Antiques is a shop that has been located on the edge of town for two years. Many customers from other towns visit our city to shop at Bon Junko Antiques. Unfortunately, many of these customers have caused trouble in the city. According to the crime reports in the newspaper, our city has had an increase in crimes and traffic accidents recently. The people who were involved in these incidents were probably from out of town. Customers who drive to our city just to shop at Bon Junko Antiques are making our city unsafe.
Which statement is an unsupported claim in the passage?
A. The city has experienced a recent increase in crimes and accidents.
B. Bon Junko Antiques has been located on the edge of town for two years.
C. Bon Junko Antiques is a shop that attracts many customers who live out of town.
D. People from out of town have caused an increase in crime and traffic accidents.
adapted from The Benefits of Playing a Musical Instrument
by Erika Montgomery
For children, simply listening to music is not as effective as learning to play a musical instrument. Playing an instrument has many more benefits.
Learning to play an instrument takes a lot of time, patience, and practice. During music lessons, a teacher usually sets short- and long-term goals for music playing and performance. As children reach their goals, they will feel a sense of achievement and pride that they would not feel from just listening to music.
Playing an instrument requires the brain to work at advanced speeds. Reading music is converted in the brain to the physical motion of playing the instrument. Children who play instruments have improved hand-eye coordination over those who do not.
Playing an instrument has many parallels to doing math. By understanding beat, rhythm, and scales, children are learning how to divide, create fractions, and recognize patterns.
Learning and playing music requires constant reading and understanding. A child needs to identify a note on the page and recognize which note (pitch) to play on the instrument, how long to hold it, what finger to use, and how loudly to play it. The child also needs to decide whether the note should be played short and crisp or smooth and connected to the next note. Learning to read and comprehend music can extend to improving reading and comprehension of literature.
Finally, most instruments require some degree of maintenance. This can be anything from oiling to tuning to cleaning. Encouraging children to stay on top of regular instrument maintenance creates a level of responsibility for them. When they are responsible for something, they are more likely to take care of it themselves, without an adult having to remind them.
For all of these reasons, then, it is clear that playing music on an instrument is much more beneficial to children than simply listening to music on their smartphones or the radio.
Which detail should the author add to strengthen their argument?
A. Learning to play a musical instrument increases your brain's ability to remember.
B. Musical instruments can be very expensive and require additional accessories.
C. If you are learning a new instrument you should practice for 30 minutes every day.
D. It can take a year or longer to master the basics of playing an instrument.
A statement made by an author that asserts an author’s belief.
Evidence
Claim
Reasoning
Sufficient
Pieces of text used to back up (support) a claim
Claim
Reasoning
Evidence
Sufficient
The explanation the author gives to connect the evidence to the claim.
Claim
Evidence
Sufficient
Reasoning
An exchange of multiple views/perspectives
Sufficient
Argument
Reasoning
Relevant
Clear and thorough in its purpose; enough or adequate
Reasoning
Claim
Evidence
Sufficient
Closely connected to what is being considered.
Claim
Sufficient
Relevant
Reasoning
Choose the CLAIM.
I like Bojangles iced tea better than McDonald's iced tea.
Bojangles ice tea is better than McDonald's iced tea.
Choose the CLAIM.
Bugs should be considered a sustainable protein for the future.
Everyone who eats bugs likes them.
Choose the CLAIM
Scorpions are unique.
Scorpions should be regarded as the most unique bug.
What is an argument?
When the author expresses a
point of view and supports that view with evidence.
A statement that can be argued, but the author believes it to be true.
An opposing viewpoint made by the author to strengthen their position and stance.
Facts, examples, statistics, quotes, and expert opinions used to support an argument
What is NOT associated with claim?
It is the main point the author states.
It is a statement the author believes to be true.
It is specific and can be argued
It is a descriptive thesis statement
What is a counterclaim?
The opposite view of the author's claim that can also be proved and supported with evidence.
A claim based on the author's personal knowledge and research.
The main point the author is trying to express.
Facts, examples, statistics, quotes, and expert opinions used to support an argument.
What is relevant evidence?
Facts, examples, statistics, quotes, and expert opinions used to support an argument
Data that works to disprove the author’s viewpoint
The opposite view post of the author's claim.
The viewpoint the author expresses.
What is conflicting evidence?
Evidence that works to disprove the author’s viewpoint and argument.
Facts, examples, statistics, quotes, and expert opinions used to support an argument.
Why would an author introduce a counterclaim?
To show they understand the other viewpoint, but then disprove it with relevant evidence in order to strengthen their argument.
To make their argument more interesting and engaging for the reader.
So they people who believe the other side of the argument will read their paper.
To show how intelligent they are.
If a student traces evidence through a text, what are they doing?
underlining it
drawing on it
to follow or keep track of
to provide proof
What does it mean to evaluate?
to judge the quality of
to explain in greater detail
to show how something works
to reach a decision
For example, messenger bags that sling across your shoulder and sit against your bike are always sliding off. Backpacks are better, but they are built to distribute the weight evenly when you walk. When bicycling, your body is in a whole different position. These backpacks can cause strain to the back.
The new Bicycle Book Bag completely solves these problems with a smart design. This backpack will hold all your books and let you carry them comfortably while you ride.
The comfort comes from the special straps that fasten across your chest and across your waist. This makes sure that weight is evenly carried across your whole back. Best of all, the bag and its contents are firmly held in place and will not slide around.
Just in time for school, the Bicycle Book Bag is available at an outdoor store near you.
What evidence could the author include to support the claim that wearing a regular backpack or bicycle is bad for the back?
For example, messenger bags that sling across your shoulder and sit against your bike are always sliding off. Backpacks are better, but they are built to distribute the weight evenly when you walk. When bicycling, your body is in a whole different position. These backpacks can cause strain to the back.
The new Bicycle Book Bag completely solves these problems with a smart design. This backpack will hold all your books and let you carry them comfortably while you ride.
The comfort comes from the special straps that fasten across your chest and across your waist. This makes sure that weight is evenly carried across your whole back. Best of all, the bag and its contents are firmly held in place and will not slide around.
Just in time for school, the Bicycle Book Bag is available at an outdoor store near you.
How does the author help the reader understand what makes the Bicycle Book Bag special?
Those who run our state parks and recreation areas should recognize that. Installing more trash cans along our public beaches is the way to keep trash from being dumped on the sand. The last time I went to a beach, I only saw one garbage can, and it was way up by the parking lot! Trash cans should be spaced frequently along the beach.
I know some will say that trash cans will spoil the natural beauty of the beach. However, this could easily be solved. The trash can could be in small wooden "huts" that blend with the beach and woods. If there were places to easily dump trash, then people would lack excuses to not use them.
The author helps the reader understand the lack of places to dump trash on public beaches by...?
Those who run our state parks and recreation areas should recognize that. Installing more trash cans along our public beaches is the way to keep trash from being dumped on the sand. The last time I went to a beach, I only saw one garbage can, and it was way up by the parking lot! Trash cans should be spaced frequently along the beach.
I know some will say that trash cans will spoil the natural beauty of the beach. However, this could easily be solved. The trash can could be in small wooden "huts" that blend with the beach and woods. If there were places to easily dump trash, then people would lack excuses to not use them.
Which of the following pieces of textual evidence supports the AUTHOR'S SOLUTION to the trash cans spoiling nature?
Which of the following is evidence for the claim below?
"It exposes young people to violence. "
What could the author add to strengthen the idea that videos are not good for your mind?
In the passage below, how does the author help the reader understand the lack of places to dump trash on public beaches?
People often complain about the amount of trash on our ocean beaches, but I rarely hear anyone offering a solution. Let's face it-most of us are pretty lazy and do not want to have to walk very far to dispose of trash.
Those who run our state parks and recreation areas should recognize that. Installing more trash cans along our public beaches is the way to keep trash from being dumped on the sand. The last time I went to a beach, I only saw one garbage can, and it was way up by the parking lot! Trash cans should be spaced frequently along the beach.
I know some will say that trash cans will spoil the natural beauty of the beach. However, this could easily be solved. The trash can could be in small wooden "huts" that blend with the beach and woods. If there were places to easily dump trash, then people would lack excuses to not use them.
by suggesting that wooden "huts" be built
by providing some expert opinion
by indicating that everyone believes this
by speaking from personal experience
Which of the following is a claim the author supports in the passage below?
“The best things in life are free,” they say, which is true for things like libraries. However, it is not true for many museums. The Philadelphia Museum of Art, for example, costs $20 to get in. Traveling exhibits, such as the work of a certain artist that is touring the country, almost always cost even more. People must pay to get into the museum and also pay for the special showing. That means people who don’t have much money cannot enjoy the art.
People with little money cannot enjoy museums.
Museums should not charge extra fees.
Traveling exhibits should always be free.
Museums need more traveling shows.
Which piece of evidence could be used to BEST support this claim that high school students should be required to wear uniforms.
When adding everything up, a school uniform could end up costing more than $200.
A student reported, "Allowing us to wear our own clothes gives us a chance to show our unique style and independence."
At one school that recently required students to wear uniforms, attendence rates went up, and behavior incidents went down.
School uniforms can be ordered online .
In the passage below, which of the following is evidence for the claim that video games expose young people to violence?
“It’s important to limit your video game playing. First, playing video games isn’t good for your mind. It exposes young people to violence. Violent video games have been linked to aggression in kids. Also, it isn’t good for your health. The more video games you play, the less physical activity you are getting. Obesity and levels of video game playing are linked in research. Finally, playing video games limits the important social interactions you have in real life with friends and family. We miss talking with you around here because you’re always playing games!”
"Violent video games have been linked to aggression in kids."
"Obesity and levels of video game playing are linked in research."
"We miss talking with you around here because you’re always playing games!”
“It’s important to limit your video game playing."
For the passage below, what evidence could the author include to support the claim that wearing a regular backpack on a bicycle is bad for the back?
Are you tired of trying to lug your books to school on your bike? Messenger bags and backpacks were not well-designed for bicycle travel, making it difficult to carry your books.
For example, messenger bags that sling across your shoulder and sit against your bike are always sliding off. Backpacks are better, but they are built to distribute the weight evenly when you walk. When bicycling, your body is in a whole different position. These backpacks can cause strain to the back.
The new Bicycle Book Bag completely solves these problems with a smart design. This backpack will hold all your books and let you carry them comfortably while you ride.
The comfort comes from the special straps that fasten across your chest and across your waist. This makes sure that weight is evenly carried across your whole back. Best of all, the bag and its contents are firmly held in place and will not slide around.
Just in time for school, the Bicycle Book Bag is available at an outdoor store near you.
Data that show how many kids carry backpacks
Evidence from a doctor who treats back problems
A poll that asks what book bags kids use on their bike
Examples of book bags that attach to the bike itself
Make clear the differences between two or more concepts or items
Relevance
Distinguish
Sufficient
Credibility
A statement put forth and supported by evidence
Evaluate
Relevance
Credibility
Argument
Obsolete
Evidence
Evaluate
Sufficient
Outdated
Follow the course or development of
Evaluate
Claim
Outdated
Trace
The writer's position on an issue or problem
Trace
Claim
Relevance
Credibility
The quality of being believable or trustworthy
Relevance
Sufficient
Distinguish
Credibility
Enough
Sufficient
Outdated
Credibility
Evidence
Proof
Relevance
Evaluate
Outdated
Evidence
Examine and judge carefully
Evaluate
Outdated
Relevance
Evidence
The capacity of information to make a difference in a decision
Credibility
Distinguish
Evidence
Relevance
What does Reasoning mean?
A solid and reasonable argument
A written response to a claim
An explanation that connects your evidence back to the claim
An opinion you believe in
Which statement is relevant evidence?
My family has a computer at home.
My son loves Star Wars.
In a recent study, 78% of students like community service.
I believe that the steelers are the best football team in the NFL
What does Evidence mean?
All data that supports your claim
Statement you believe to be true
An opinion
A statement of an opposing argument
What is the definition for claim?
A statement you believe to be false.
A statement you believe to be true.
Evidence that proves something right
An opinion
What are good examples of Evidence to help support your claim?
Statistics
Research and survey results
Expert opinions
All of the above
Statements that address opposing viewpoints.
counterclaims
rebuttals
claims
arguments
a logical appeal supported by reasons and evidence
claim
evidence
counterargument
argument
Evidence that DOES connect to the claim is _____________ evidence.
Relevant
Irrelevant
What does the word delineate mean?
a statement saying that something is true
to clearly show
to judge the value or condition of someone or something
relating to a subject in an appropriate way
What does the word evaluate mean?
to judge the value or condition of someone or something
a statement saying that something is true
relating to a subject in an appropriate way
to clearly show
What does the word sufficient mean?
having or providing as much as is needed
NOT relating to a subject in an appropriate way
relating to a subject in an appropriate way
in good condition: solid and strong: free from mistakes
HIDE ANSWER
Which is the irrelevant sentence in the paragraph below?
Am I really so bad-mannered, conceited, headstrong, pushing, stupid, lazy, as they all say? Oh of course not. I love to eat fruit and be in nature. I have my faults, just like everyone else, I know that, but they thoroughly exaggerate everything.
Am I really so bad-mannered, conceited, headstrong, pushing, stupid, lazy, as they all say?
Oh of course not.
I love to eat fruit and be in nature.
I have my faults, just like everyone else, I know that, but they thoroughly exaggerate everything.
Why is Anne's argument below unfair and unbalanced?
Am I really so bad-mannered, conceited, headstrong, pushing, stupid, lazy, etc., etc., etc., as they all say? Oh of course not. I have my faults, just like everyone else, I know that, but they thoroughly exaggerate everything.
She provides perspectives from all sides of the argument.
She only sees the situation from her own perspective.
How can writers provide a counterclaim?
Keep stating their own position without considering the other side of the argument.
State the opposing argument and agree with the opposition.
State the opposing argument and then refute the opposing assertions by providing evidence that shows the opposition's stance is weak.
Which of the following is a claim the author supports in paragraph 1?
“The best things in life are free,” they say, which is true for things like libraries. However, it is not true for many museums. The Philadelphia Museum of Art, for example, costs $20 to get in.
Traveling exhibits, such as the work of a certain artist that is touring the country, almost always cost even more. People must pay to get into the museum and also pay for the special
showing. That means people who don’t have much money cannot enjoy the art.
Poor people cannot enjoy museums.
Museums should not charge extra fees.
Museums need more traveling shows.
Traveling exhibits should always be free.
According to the American Health Association, peanut butter is a great source of protein.
Claim
Evidence
Save Your Money
Some kids earn money by doing jobs around
their houses or neighborhoods. They should save
some of their money. If they save their money for
a little while, they can buy something special. For
example, if someone wants a new video game, they
could save their money to buy it themselves.
What does is the author's claim?
kids should spend their money on a video game
Kids should save their money
Kids should earn money doing jobs
Kids should buy their own things
Over half of American households have
pets. One of the benefits of owning an animal is that
it may help a person live longer. According to the
Department of Health, people with pets live an
average of ten years longer than those who don’t
have pets. Cats, dogs, lizards, and fish are all fun
pets that can help you live a longer life!
What evidence from the text supports the claim that People who own pets live longer?
Half Americans will have shorter lives
According to the Department of Health, people with pets live an
average of ten years longer than those who don’t have pets.
Over half of American households have
pets.
Cats, dogs, lizards, and fish are all fun
pets
