Understanding Arguments, Claims, Evidence, and Commentary

Vocabulary flashcards covering key reading and writing concepts such as arguments, claims, evidence, commentary, and reading fix-up strategies.

Argument

The overarching big idea supported and built by smaller individual claims.

Claims

The small pieces or individual points that build up the larger argument.

Evidence

Real factual information used to support claims and prove that a statement is truthful.

Commentary

The explanation and clarification following evidence that communicates its core significance to the audience.

Fix-up strategies

Actions good readers take when they hit a confusion, such as stopping, re-reading, and locating commentary around the confusing passage.

Dayton Accords

An example of evidence referenced in the lecture to demonstrate how a commitment to end fighting in Bosnia is being renewed.