#2.2 : Assertions & Counterclaims

Question 1

Critical Reading as Reasoning

Answer 1

In order to reason out/justify a claim or position, we should defend our claim as a writer or disprove the writer’s claim as a reader considering the explanation, textual evidence used.

Question 2

As a critical reader, we should involve rational judgment:

Answer 2

express our thoughts after a thorough investigation, evaluation of the ideas mentioned by the writer

Question 3

As a critical reader, we should involve discipline:

Answer 3

when we read, we also try to organize the ideas made so we can formulate counterclaims and comprehensively evaluate the ideas.

Question 4

It presents a value of judgment based on a set of criteria. It is a way of giving explanation to show the strengths and weaknesses of something through writing.

Answer 4

Evaluative statement

Question 5

2 ways in formulating an evaluative statement

Answer 5

• formulate assertions about the content and properties of a text read; and
• formulate meaningful counterclaims in response to claims made in a text read.

Question 6

These are statements used to make a declaration or to express a strong belief on a particular topic.

Answer 6

Assertions

Question 7

The purpose of writing an assertion

Answer 7

Is for the writer to convey directly an idea or feeling and to convince the reader to accept his or her claim about a particular topic.

Question 8

four common types of assertions

Answer 8

Assertions as fact, convention, fact, and preference

Question 9

These are statements that can be proven objectively by direct experience, testimonies of witnesses, verified observations, or the results of research.

Answer 9

ASSERTIONS as FACT

Question 10

These are statements in which something is done, similar to traditions and norms. It depends on historical precedent, laws, rules, usage, and customs. Thus, it is verified by how commonly held definitions and beliefs are interpreted.

Answer 10

ASSERTIONS as CONVENTION

Question 11

These statements are based on facts, but are difficult to objectively verify because of the uncertainty of producing satisfactory proofs of soundness.

Answer 11

ASSERTIONS as OPINION

Question 12

These statements are based on personal choice; therefore, they are subjective and cannot be objectively proven or logically attacked.

Answer 12

ASSERTIONS as PREFERENCE

Question 13

For the past decade, an increase of 20% in the number of teenage marriage has been recorded.

Answer 13

Assertion of Fact

Question 14

Early marriage is considered a disgrace if the woman is already pregnant before the wedding.

Answer 14

Assertion of Convention

Question 15

Weddings are so expensive, and the people getting married barely get to enjoy their big day.

Answer 15

Assertion of Opinion

Question 16

For women, cohabitation before marriage would be better than following the traditional practice.

Answer 16

Assertion of Preference

Question 17

These are claims made to rebut a previous claim. They provide a contrasting perspective to the main argument.

Answer 17

Counterclaims

Question 18

Purpose of locating and providing counterclaims to an argument.

Answer 18

Shows a deeper understanding, competence, and familiarity with the writer’s topic

Question 19

It is defined as the details given by the author to support his/her claim

Answer 19

Evidence

Question 20

Evidence can include the following:

Answer 20

• facts and statistics (objectively validated information on your subject);
• opinion from experts (leading authorities on a topic, such as researchers or academics); and
• personal anecdotes (generalizable, relevant, and objectively considered).