Argumentative Unit

Question 1

A reason or set of reasons given with the aim of persuading others that an action or idea is right or wrong.

Answer 1

Argument

Question 2

An assertion/statement of the truth of something.

Answer 2

Claim

Question 3

To state a fact or belief confidently.

Answer 3

Assert

Question 4

When one tries to argue both sides evenly, thus not asserting a clear position.

Answer 4

Equivocate

Question 5

One’s stance on an issue.

Answer 5

Position

Question 6

To contradict a position.

Answer 6

Challenge

Question 7

To support a position.

Answer 7

Defend

Question 8

To set parameters for an argument (Yes, but… or No, but…)

Answer 8

Qualify

Question 9

Examples that could potentially happen but have not actually happened (Hypothetical evidence tends to be weak evidence and should not be included in essays.)

Answer 9

Hypothetical Evidence

Question 10

Evidence that vague or too broad.

Answer 10

General Evidence

Question 11

Evidence that has some concrete details but is still somewhat imprecise.

Answer 11

Somewhat Specific Evidence

Question 12

Evidence that contains detailed information to help the reader clearly understand the example.

Answer 12

Specific Evidence

Question 13

Analysis that explains the significance of the evidence.

Answer 13

Commentary

Question 14

The opposing argument.

Answer 14

Counterargument

Question 15

A claim made to rebut (go against/refute/disprove) a previous claim.

Answer 15

Counterclaim

Question 16

A refutation or contradiction; follows the counterclaim to disprove it, thus strengthening one’s position.

Answer 16

Rebuttal

Question 17

Acknowledging the merit of the opposing argument.

Answer 17

Concession

Question 18

The action of proving a statement or theory to be wrong or false.

Answer 18

Refutation