Claims, Reasoning, and Evidence (AP)

What is a claim in an argument?

A claim is the central argument or assertion being made; it's the main point or stance on an issue.

What are the characteristics of a strong claim?

A strong claim should be debatable, specific, arguable, and aligned with the prompt.

What makes a claim debatable?

A claim is debatable if it presents an opinion or interpretation that others could reasonably disagree with.

Why should a claim be specific?

A claim should be focused and narrow enough to be supported within the scope of your essay.

What does it mean for a claim to be arguable?

An arguable claim presents an assertion that can be proven or supported with reasoning and evidence.

How should a claim relate to an essay prompt?

A claim should directly address the question or task presented in the essay prompt.

What is a weak claim example?

"Climate change is bad." (Too vague and generally accepted as true.)

What is a stronger claim example?

"While the impacts of climate change are global, developing nations bear a disproportionate burden due to their limited resources for adaptation and mitigation."

What is reasoning in the context of an argument?

Reasoning is the logical connection or explanation that links your evidence to your claim.

What are key characteristics of effective reasoning?

Effective reasoning should be logical, explanatory, analytical, and well-developed.

What is causal reasoning?

Causal reasoning shows a cause-and-effect relationship between the evidence and the claim.

What is comparative reasoning?

Comparative reasoning draws parallels or distinctions between evidence and the claim.

What defines deductive reasoning?

Deductive reasoning starts with a general principle and applies it to specific evidence to support the claim.

What defines inductive reasoning?

Inductive reasoning uses specific evidence to draw a broader conclusion or support the claim.

What is evidence in an argument?

Evidence is the information or data that supports your claim and makes it believable.

What are characteristics of strong evidence?

Strong evidence is relevant, credible, sufficient, and specific.

What types of evidence can be used in an argument?

Types of evidence can include statistics, examples, and expert opinions.

How should evidence be integrated into an argument?

Evidence should be introduced smoothly, with strategic use of quotations and accurate citations.

What is the relationship between claims, reasoning, and evidence?

These three elements work together to create a strong argument, where claims assert, evidence supports, and reasoning explains.

How can weaknesses in claims, reasoning, or evidence affect an argument?

A weakness in any area can undermine the strength of the argument, making it less convincing.

What should an argumentative essay include regarding claims, reasoning, and evidence?

It should clearly state a claim in the thesis, develop body paragraphs with supporting evidence, and refute counterclaims.