FORMULATING EVALUATIVE STATEMENTS, ASSERTIONS, AND COUNTERCLAIMS

Evaluative Statement

A statement that expresses sound judgement, supported by reasons and evidence, highlighting strengths and weaknesses based on specific criteria.

How to Formulate an Evaluative Statement

Begin with the positive, then critique, offer suggestions, be concise, and choose words carefully.

Assertion

A confident and forceful statement of fact or belief that serves as the controlling idea of an argument.

The acronym 'ARE' in argument formulation

'A' stands for Assertion, 'R' stands for Reason, and 'E' stands for Evidence.

Counterclaim

A statement formulated to rebut a claim, providing a contrasting perspective to the main argument.

Hedge

A word or phrase that minimizes the negative impact of criticism, providing a courteous tone in writing.

Types of Hedges

Introductory verbs, modal adverbs, certain lexical verbs, and that clauses used to soften statements.

Argument

An assertion of the merits of a claim based on specific evidence, rather than a confrontation.

Evidence

Proof in support of an argument, which can include facts, statistics, expert testimony, and research findings.

Types of Evidence

Logos (logical reasoning), Ethos (ethical credibility), and Pathos (emotional appeal).