In an argument, an author states a claim and supports it with reasons and evidence.

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What is an argument?

The author's position on a problem or issue.

​Usually, they will either be for (in favor of) or against (opposed to) an issue.

​Claim

Support is the reasons and evidence to prove the claim.

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Support

Specific facts, statistics, and examples.

Example: Chocolate is not the best ice cream flavor because a survey showed that vanilla was preferred by 57% of people.

Evidence

Statements made to explain an action or belief.

Example: I believe that chocolate is not the best ice cream flavor because it tastes weird.

Reasons

Reasons VS. Evidence

Statements that address opposing viewpoints.


Good arguments anticipate disagreements and disprove them.

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Counterclaims

Claim: Cell phones should be allowed at school.

Counterclaim: Some say that cell phones should not be allowed at school because they are distracting.

Example

Addressing readers using the pronouns "you" or "yourself."

Example: Imagine yourself as an astronaut, a part of the first mission to Mars.

Direct Address

Questions that are asked without expecting an answer.

Example: Would you want to trust a scientific mission to the people who run reality TV?

Rhetorical Questions

​Words with strong positive or negative meanings used to influence readers.

Example: This form of mining would be incredibly beneficial to our survival.

Loaded Language

​Rhetorical Devices:

​techniques used to improve arguments