Argumentative Unit

Question 1

Argument

Answer 1

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

Question 2

Claim

Answer 2

An assertion/statement of the truth of something

Question 3

Equivocate

Answer 3

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

Question 4

Position

Answer 4

One’s stance on an issue

Question 5

Challenge

Answer 5

To contradict a position

Question 6

Qualify

Answer 6

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

Question 7

Hypothetical Evidence

Answer 7

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

Question 8

General Evidence

Answer 8

Evidence that is vague or too broad

Question 9

Somewhat Specific Evidence

Answer 9

Evidence that has some concrete details but is still somewhat imprecise

Question 10

Specific Evidence

Answer 10

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

Question 11

Commentary

Answer 11

Analysis that explains the significance of the evidence

Question 12

Counterargument

Answer 12

the opposing argument

Question 13

Counterclaim

Answer 13

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

Question 14

Rebuttal

Answer 14

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

Question 15

Concession

Answer 15

Acknowledging the merit of the opposing argument

Question 16

Refutation

Answer 16

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

Question 17

Assert

Answer 17

To state a fact or belief confidently

Question 18

Defend

Answer 18

To support a position