Unit 4 Lesson 3: Introducing an Argument

Question 1

argumentative text

Answer 1

a form of writing that presents a claim supported by logical reasons and relevant evidence

Question 2

bias

Answer 2

a personal feeling in favor of or against something

Question 3

claim

Answer 3

a statement of the writer’s position on a topic

Question 4

To build their persuasive argument, a writer begins with a plan, which includes identifying the

Answer 4

intended audience

Question 5

Why must the author take audieneces’ baises into account

Answer 5

Writers must make sure the audience has enough information to understand the reasoning used to support the claim. Along with anticipating the audience’s knowledge, a writer needs to think about how the audience feels about the topic. In other words, the audience’s bias, or attitude toward the topic, needs to be taken into account.

Question 6

argument

Answer 6

a written discussion in which reasons and evidence are given to support an opinion

Question 7

compare and contrast

Answer 7

to consider the similarities and differences between two or more things

Question 8

hook

Answer 8

an introductory element (e.g., anecdote, question) that captures the reader’s attention

Question 9

opening statement

Answer 9

the main argument of an argumentative essay or tex

Question 10

purpose

Answer 10

the reason a text is written

Question 11

What does a argument contain

Answer 11

An argument presents a discussion in which reasons and evidence are given in support of a claim or a statement of a writer’s position on a topic. The main claim or main point of an argument is called the opening statement.

Question 12

What is the purpose of a argument

Answer 12

The purpose, or reason, for writing an argument is to persuade readers, so an argument’s introduction should engage readers and prepare them for the ideas and evidence to come.

Question 13

What are the defining characteristics of a well-written opening statement?

Answer 13

A well-written opening statement should be clear and concise. It should convey the writer’s claim and explain why the opinion is held and how it can be implemented.

Question 14

Why is it important to have a well-written opening statement before a writer begins drafting their argumentative text?

Answer 14

A well-written opening statement is important because it allows the writer to narrow down their ideas into a statement that they can prove throughout their argumentative text. It also gives the writer direction for researching their topic and organizing their ideas.

Question 15

Read this sentence: College education at a public university should be free just like public schools for kindergarten through 12th grade. What information is missing from this opening statement?

Answer 15

This opening statement states the writer’s opinion but doesn’t include why they hold that opinion.