Identifying Argument

Identify the argument:

All my teachers drive old cars, bring their lunches from home, and wear out-of-date clothes. They must not make much money.

• All my teachers drive old cars.

• All my teachers bring their lunch from home.

• All my teachers wear out-of-date clothes.

• Teachers must not make much money

Identify the argument:

Sam has taken swim lessons for years and swims very well. He will definitely make the high school swim team.

• Sam swims very well.

• Sam will definitely make the high school swim team.

• Sam has taken swim lessons for years.

Identify the argument: My mother appreciates receiving books as presents, and she especially enjoys Barbara Kingsolver’s novels. She will like the copy of Kingsolver’s novel The Lacuna that I bought for her birthday next week.

• My mother will like the copy of the Kingsolver's novel, The Lacuna, that I bought for her birthday.

• My mother appreciates receiving books as presents.

• My mother enjoys Barbara Kingsolver's novels.

Which type of writing has differing points of view?

• Argumentative writing

• Descriptive writing

• Informative writing

• Narrative writing

Answer explanation

Argumentative writing presents differing points of view as it aims to persuade the reader by discussing multiple perspectives on a topic. In contrast, descriptive, informative, and narrative writing typically focus on a single viewpoint.

1. What are the statements which are intended to support the conclusion?

• Supporting statements are premises or evidence that logically lead to the conclusion.

• Supporting statements are conclusions drawn from assumptions.

• Supporting statements are personal opinions.

• Supporting statements are irrelevant facts.

Answer explanation

Supporting statements are premises or evidence that logically lead to the conclusion, making this the correct choice. The other options do not accurately describe the role of supporting statements.

What is an opposing argument or an objection to a claim?

• Affirmative statement

• Supporting evidence

• Counterargument

• Neutral observation

Answer explanation

A counterargument is an opposing argument or objection to a claim, directly challenging its validity. It contrasts with affirmative statements and supporting evidence, which reinforce a claim.

What is the term for the main argument you are trying to prove in your writing?

• thesis

• hypothesis

• premise

• conclusion

Answer explanation

The term 'thesis' refers to the main argument or claim you are trying to prove in your writing. It serves as the foundation for your work, guiding the direction and focus of your argument.

Which of the following is a method to strengthen your argument?

• using emotional appeals

• ignoring opposing views

• repeating your claim

• using vague language

Answer explanation

Using emotional appeals can effectively strengthen your argument by connecting with the audience's feelings, making your point more persuasive. In contrast, ignoring opposing views or using vague language weakens your stance.

What is another name for a counter-argument?

• Rebuttal

• Affirmation

• Validation

• Confirmation

Answer explanation

A counter-argument is often referred to as a rebuttal, which is a response that contradicts or opposes an argument. The other options, affirmation, validation, and confirmation, do not convey this opposing nature.

Identify the argument: The new city park has a playground, a pond, and a picnic area. It will be a great place for families to spend the day.

• A) The new city park has a playground.

• B) The new city park has a pond.

• C) The new city park has a picnic area.

• D) It will be a great place for families to spend the day.