Understanding Argumentative Texts

What is the main claim in an argumentative text?

• The author's personal opinion

• The central argument or point the author is trying to prove

• A list of facts and statistics

• The conclusion of the text

Answer explanation

The main claim in an argumentative text is the central argument or point the author is trying to prove. This claim drives the text's purpose and supports the author's stance, distinguishing it from personal opinions or conclusions.

Which of the following is a characteristic of argumentative text?

• It tells a story with a beginning, middle, and end

• It presents a claim and supports it with evidence

• It describes a series of events in chronological order

• It provides a detailed description of a place

Answer explanation

Argumentative text is characterized by presenting a claim and supporting it with evidence, which distinguishes it from narrative or descriptive texts that focus on storytelling or detailing events.

How does an author use facts in an argumentative text?

• To entertain the reader

• To support or oppose a claim

• To confuse the reader

• To describe a setting

Answer explanation

In an argumentative text, an author uses facts to support or oppose a claim, providing evidence that strengthens their argument or counters opposing views. This is essential for persuading the reader.

What is the intended audience of a text?

• The people who will publish the text

• The group of people the author is writing for

• The characters in the story

• The author's family and friends

Answer explanation

The intended audience of a text refers to the group of people the author is writing for. This choice directly identifies who the author aims to communicate with, making it the correct answer.

Identify the claim in the following statement: "School uniforms should be mandatory because they promote equality among students."

• School uniforms are expensive

• School uniforms should be mandatory

• Students dislike school uniforms

• School uniforms are colorful

Answer explanation

The claim in the statement is that "School uniforms should be mandatory". This is the main assertion being made, as it supports the idea that uniforms promote equality among students.

Which of the following is NOT a way an author might use facts in an argument?

• To support their claim

• To provide evidence against a counterargument

• To confuse the reader

• To clarify a point

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'To confuse the reader' because authors use facts to clarify points, support claims, and counterarguments, not to create confusion.

What is the purpose of identifying the intended audience in an argumentative text?

• To determine the length of the text

• To tailor the argument to the audience's interests and level of understanding

• To decide the font size of the text

• To choose the color scheme of the text

Answer explanation

Identifying the intended audience is crucial in an argumentative text as it allows the writer to tailor the argument to the audience's interests and level of understanding, making the argument more effective and persuasive.

Which of the following best describes a claim in an argumentative text?

• A question the author asks

• A statement that can be debated or challenged

• A fact that cannot be disputed

• A description of a character

Answer explanation

A claim in an argumentative text is best described as a statement that can be debated or challenged, as it presents a position that others may support or oppose, unlike a fact or a question.

How can an author effectively use facts against an argument?

• By ignoring them

• By presenting them as evidence for the opposing side

• By making them up

• By using them to support their own claim

Answer explanation

An author can effectively use facts against an argument by presenting them as evidence for the opposing side. This approach highlights weaknesses in the original argument and strengthens the author's position.

What is one way to identify the intended audience of a text?

• By looking at the publication date

• By analyzing the language and style used in the text

• By counting the number of pages

• By checking the author's biography

Answer explanation

One way to identify the intended audience of a text is by analyzing the language and style used in the text. This can reveal the complexity, tone, and vocabulary that cater to specific groups.