Argumentative Text Characteristics Quiz and Flashcards

What is the purpose of a claim in an argumentative text?

Which of the following is an example of a claim?

What does ethos refer to in the context of rhetorical appeals?

Which of the following is NOT a rhetorical appeal used in making arguments persuasive?

What distinguishes a claim from a non-claim statement?

Why is it important for writers to use logical reasons and evidence to support their claims?

Effective Argumentative Texts

Effective argumentative texts include characteristics and structural elements that persuade others to adopt a point of view or take a certain action.

Claims and Thesis Statements

A claim is a writer's or speaker's position on a debatable issue or problem.
A claim is an arguable statement that enables people to share their differing opinions.
Examples of claims: "A college education is necessary for success in life" (can be defended or challenged).
Examples of non-claims: "I didn't like the movie" (cannot be disputed).

Supporting Claims

Any claim must be supported by logical reasons and relevant evidence to be convincing.

Rhetorical Appeals

Logos (from Greek root "logic"): an appeal to logic made by offering reasonable and sound evidence to support an argument.
Pathos (from Greek root "pity or sympathy"): an appeal to emotion.
Ethos (from Greek root "morals"): an appeal to ethics made by establishing credibility and trust.

Persuasive Conclusions

Writers and speakers can use rhetorical appeals to lead up to a convincing conclusion that persuades the audience to accept the argument or follow through on a call to action.

Learn about effective argumentative texts and the key components such as claims and reasoning. Understand how writers and speakers use arguments to persuade others and present their positions on debatable issues. Explore the concept of claims and how they enable individuals to express differing opinions.