Argument: Evidence and Reasons

Claim: In the United States, we still need a post office. Which of the following is NOT a good piece of evidence to support this claim?

• The post office is needed for the delivery of packages.

• Nearly 90% of mail is junk mail and throwing it away is bad for the environment.

• The post office serves Americans throughout the country

Evidence: Zoos cannot perfectly copy the animal's natural habitat. Zoos don't allow animals to think and problem solve like they would in their natural habitat. Which claim best matches the evidence?

• Zoos are harmful to the well-being of the animals.

• Zoos only exist as entertainment for humans.

• Zoos are good for animals because many of the animals were endangered in their original habitats.

Claim: Libraries shouldn't get rid of printed books. Which of the following is NOT a good piece of evidence to support this claim?

• Reading and researching online is easier and often contains more updated information.

• People read more carefully on paper than they do on computers and tablets.

• People tend to get distracted by other digital activities when they read on a device.

Evidence: Girls in girls-only classrooms tend to take more science and math classes than girls in mixed gender classes. Boys in boys-only classrooms take more art and drama classes than boys in mixed-gender classes. Which claim best matches the evidence?

• Boys and girls in single-gender classrooms get higher test scores than children in mixed-gender classrooms.

• Boys and girls in single-gender classrooms aren't prepared for the real world where offices and businesses are mixed gender.

• Boys and girls in single-gender classrooms take more academic risks in their class choices.

Evidence: If the law required all American adults to vote, government would be forced to listen to all Americans. Mandatory voting in Australia led to a greater trust between the people and the government. Which claim best matches the evidence?

• American adults should be required to vote because it creates a better relationship between the government and citizens.

• American adults should be able to choose whether they vote because they can choose whether they want to be involved.

• American adults should be required to vote because it will make citizens become more informed about our government.

Which is the weakest claim and reasoning?

• Students should be able to use cell phones in class because it will help them develop 21st century skills.

• Teachers should get paid for every hour they work because they will be more likely to work harder.

• Small dogs are safer pets for families than big dogs because they won't be able to knock old people down.

• I think people should not eat meat products because they make me happy.

Put a checkmark next to all the STRONG reasons for this claim: Starbucks is more successful than Dunkin.

• Starbucks has more stores worldwide.

• Starbucks made more money last year.

• Starbucks sells less donuts than Dunkin.

• Starbucks' stores are in more countries around the world.

What is the definition of Reasons?

• Statements that you find in a source.

• Statements that go against your claim. These are the 2 counterpoints to your argument.

• Statements that support your claim. These are the 2-3 main points of your argument.

What is a CLAIM?

• A statement you believe to be false

• An opinion

• An arguable statement

• Evidence that proves something is right

What does EVIDENCE mean?

• A statement you believe to be true

• An opinion

• An argument

• Proof that supports your reasons