Week 2, Critical Reading as Reasoning: Evaluative Statement, Assertion, Counterclaim and Textual Evidence

• Critical Reading

Is a form of language analysis that does not take given text at face value, but involves a deeper examination of the claims put forth as well as the supporting points and possible counter arguments.

• Reasoning

Is the process of expressing ideas and opinions as well as justifying a stand based on prior and existing knowledge and experiences needed to arrive at a decision.

• Evaluative Statement

Is a way of presenting your final judgment on an idea or issue, whether it be positive or negative, right or wrong, moral or immoral supported by research or valid reasons.

• Assertion

The act of asserting or something that is asserted. A positive statement or declaration, often without support or reason.

• Counterclaim

The opposing side of the argument.

• Critical Reading

Baraceros (2005), expressed that critical reading is necessary for the students to know how to examine critically what they see, feel and read to be able to make good judgments or decisions for the welfare of their countrymen.

1. What a text says - “restatement” (talks about the same topic as the original text)

2. What a text does - “description” (discusses aspects of discussion itself)

3. What a text means - “interpretation” (analyzes the text and asserts a meaning for the text as a whole)