Argument & Academic Vocabulary

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Questions and Answers

In persuasive writing, what is the primary role of an 'argument'?

To appeal to the audience's emotions without logical support.
To offer supporting reasons for a claim. (correct)
To present a counterclaim that negates the writer's thesis.
To introduce irrelevant information.

What distinguishes 'claims' from other statements in an argument?

Claims represent the argument the writer intends to prove. (correct)
Claims are arguments that are opposite to the one being made.
Claims are specific examples used for vivid description.
Claims are merely emotional appeals.

If a word's 'denotation' refers to its literal meaning, what does 'connotation' encompass?

The emotions or ideas associated with the word. (correct)
The irrelevant uses of the word.
The opposing argument of the word.
The dictionary definition of the word.

In a debate, how does a 'counter argument' function?

It opposes the main argument. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What does 'credibility' refer to in the context of argumentation?

A claim that undermines the thesis. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of 'delineating' in writing?

To describe something clearly and in detail. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How does 'denotation' relate to a word's meaning?

It represents the word's literal meaning. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the focus of 'ethos' as a rhetorical appeal?

Ethics. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Why might a piece of information be considered 'irrelevant' in an argument?

It is not applicable or pertinent to the discussion. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to 'justify' a claim?

To show or prove that it is reasonable. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of persuasion does 'logos' primarily address?

Logical. (A) Signup and view all the answers

If logos appeals to logic, what does 'pathos' appeal to?

Emotions. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of a 'thesis' in academic writing?

To present a premise that is defended and elaborated. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What function does a 'warrant' serve in an argument?

It explains how data supports the claim, acting as a bridge. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the best example of using 'ethos' in an argument about climate change?

Quoting a climate scientist with decades of research experience on the subject. (D) Signup and view all the answers

If an author is trying to 'delineate' the effects of poverty on education, what would their writing focus on?

Providing a clear, detailed portrayal of how poverty specifically impacts educational outcomes. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Consider the statement, 'This policy is unfair because it harms the most vulnerable members of society.' Which rhetorical appeal is most evident?

Pathos. (C) Signup and view all the answers

A lawyer presents forensic evidence to demonstrate the defendant's presence at the crime scene. Which element of argument is the lawyer using?

Logos. (C) Signup and view all the answers

In an essay arguing for stricter environmental regulations, what would be an effective 'warrant' to connect the evidence of pollution to the need for regulation?

Explaining how pollution directly leads to specific health problems and ecological damage, justifying the necessity of rules. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Suppose a politician is accused of corruption. Which of the following is an example of a 'credibility' aimed at disproving the accusation?

Clear evidence refuting the specific claims of corruption. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Argument

A claim with persuasive reasoning, supported by reasons.

Claims

The overall point a writer/person argues for; thesis of an argument.