Claims, Reasons, and Evidence

Which of the following statements is evidence for the claim:

Cell phones can be a positive for students in class.

• Students might text each other during class.

• Students can access the internet on their phones for homework.

• Not every student can afford a phone.

• Problems occur when students lose their phones.

Is the example below a claim, reason, or evidence?

Dr. Shelnutt, a veterinarian, said that, "Dogs have a protective instinct. They can sense danger, and they will do what they can to protect you."

• Claim

• Reason

• Evidence

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: 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.

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

What does the REASON do?

• Explains evidence

• It makes a good argument

• Tells your opinion

• Tells why you think what you think