dual credit

Thesis Statement

A clear, concise sentence that expresses the writer’s central argument and reasoning

Line of Reasoning

The logical sequence of ideas that connects evidence and claims throughout the argument

Counterargument

The opposing viewpoints or objection to the writer’s claim

Concession

Acknowledging the validity of an opposing point

Rebuttal / Refutation

The response that addresses and disproves or weakens the opposing argument

Call to Action

A statement that urges readers to act or change their perspective

Exigence

The issue or situation that motivates a writer to create an argument

Bias

A personal preference, belief, or prejudice that influences how someone interprets or presents information

Qualifier

A word or phrase that limits or clarifies a claim, making it more accurate

Logic Fallacy: Straw Man

Misrepresenting an opponent’s argument to make it easier to attack

Logic Fallacy: Ad Hominem

Attacking the person instead of their argument

Logic Fallacy: Slippery Slope

Suggesting one small event will lead to extreme, unlikely outcomes

Logic Fallacy: Hasty Generalization

Drawing a conclusion based on insufficient or unrepresentative evidence

Validity

The soundness or strength of the reasoning in an argument

Credibility

The degree to which a source or writer is trustworthy and reliable

Objectivity

Presenting information without personal bias or emotion

Implication

The possible consequence or deeper meaning suggested by an argument

Nuance

A subtle distinction or variation in meaning, tone, or argument

Plausible

Seeming reasonable or probable; believable

Undermine

To weaken, challenge, or cast doubt on a claim or position

Corroborate

To confirm or strengthen a statement with additional evidence or testimony

Anecdotal

Based on personal experience rather than solid evidence; often less reliable in formal arguments

Paradigm

A typical example, model, or framework of thinking that shapes how ideas are understood

Reinforce

To strengthen an idea, argument, or position through repetition or supporting evidence

Mitigate

To make less severe or intense; to moderate the impact of an opposing argument

Rhetorical Question

A question asked for effect or to emphasize a point, not to elicit an actual answer