Tracing and Evaluating an Argument

Does the evidence support the claim? Claim: Fenty Beauty has better products than Kylie Cosmetics. Evidence: Fenty Beauty foundation is rated four stars at Sephora, but Kylie Cosmetics foundation isn’t even sold at Sephora.

• Yes

• No

The author’s argument can be traced and ________________.

Determining the author's argument, determining the claims, and identifying the evidence are the steps needed to analyze and identify an argument.

• True

• False

A statement put forth and supported by claims, reasons, and evidence.

• Evidence

• Reason

• Claim

• Argument

What is the main argument of a text that claims renewable energy sources are essential for sustainable development?

• Renewable energy sources are expensive.

• Sustainable development cannot be achieved without renewable energy sources.

• Non-renewable energy sources are depleting.

• Renewable energy sources are unreliable.

Which of the following best represents a main argument in a discussion about the importance of historical education?

• Historical education helps students understand the present by examining the past.

• Many schools have started to use digital tools to teach history.

• Students find history classes more engaging with interactive activities.

• Understanding history is crucial for the development of critical thinking skills.

An author’s _______ is the position that they want readers to consider or at the very least be open to

• logic

• evidence

• argument

• rebuttal

The first step in evaluating an argument is

• Identifying facts in the argument

• identifying the issue

• checking for sound reasoning

• checking for relevant evidence

True or false? Your job is to take apart an argument and judge the argument, reasoning and evidence.

• True

• False

If you are evaluating an argument you are

• tracing it

• questioning it

• countering it

• judging it