Unit 3 Activity 3.3

Identify a writer’s claim and explain the reasons presented for or against a topic.

Write a claim stating a position or opinion about a topic.

In argumentative writing, the author’s position is known as a claim. The claim functions like a thesis statement in expository writing. Identifying the author’s claim helps you understand the author’s opinion or point of view on a topic.

Often, an author’s claim appears in the opening paragraph. Sometimes the author states the claim in the middle of the text or even leaves it until the end. To identify a writer’s claim, look for a statement of position or opinion that reflects what the author is trying to say about a controversial topic. A claim will be a statement that is not fact, so the author should provide reasons that support the claim.

As you read the following editorial, mark the text with an asterisk (*) next to anything you agree with and an X next to anything you disagree with.

Circle unknown words and phrases. Try to determine the meaning of the words by using context clues, word parts, or a dictionary.

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