Elements of Argumentative Text

In writing, the word argument means:

• To fight with someone.

• To try to persuade someone to think a certain way.

• To insult someone.

• To try to convince someone they're wrong.

The ________ is the statement that the author is trying to prove is true.

• argument

• reason

• claim

• rebuttal

What should an author use to support their claim?

• opinions

• evidence

• experiences

• another claim

Match the following types of evidence to their definitions.

• Statistical Evidence

• Using quotes and ideas from people who have more knowledge than you.

• Fact or Example Evidence

• Using numbers and data to support your claim.

• Expert Evidence

• Using supporting details and real-world scenarios to support your claim.

When the author asks the reader to act or do something in support of their claim, that is called a-

• call to action

• rebuttal

• claim

• evidence

Place each statement in the correct category.

Groups:

(a) Fact

,

(b) Opinion

• A recent study shows that 62% of students prefer math to reading.

• School should start later each day.

• Dogs are better than cats because they are bigger and more fun to play with.

• Math is more fun than reading because it's easier.

• Most dog breeds are larger than cats.

• The school day begins at 8am

A statement or viewpoint that opposes the author's claim is called...

• rebuttal

• reason

• argument

• counterclaim

When the author responds to a counterclaim and explains why it is wrong, that is called...

• argument

• reason

• rebuttal

• evidence

Match the following vocabulary words to the examples.

• Claim

• Take time to contact your local board of education to demand that schools have a later start time.

• Expert Evidence

• Dr. Smith, a pediatrician, says that the normal sleep cycle for teenagers is to stay up late and to sleep late.

• Call to Action

• School is supposed to prepare students for a job, which most likely will have an early start time.

• Counterclaim

• 75% of all teenagers do not get enough sleep.

• Statistical Evidence

• Schools should have a later start time.