2.3 Analyzing the Use of Evidence in Arguments

• The claim guides the overall structure and organization of the argument
• Statistical evidence lends numerical weight
• Each type of evidence has its own strengths and can be strategically used to strengthen an argument's claims.


  True
• Relevance in evidence refers to whether the source has expertise or direct experience related to the claim
• The sufficiency of evidence refers to the amount and strength of evidence needed to adequately support a claim
• What is a claim in an essay or argument?

  The central argument
• A strong claim requires relevant and compelling evidence to be persuasive.


  True
• What is statistical evidence in an argument?

  Numerical data
• Anecdotal evidence involves personal stories
• Who provides expert evidence in an argument?

  Credible authorities
• Using a variety of evidence types strengthens the persuasiveness of an argument
• Evidence presented objectively lacks emotional language or personal bias.


  True
• What two qualities are crucial for building a strong, persuasive argument?

  Credibility and relevance
• A balanced argument avoids over-reliance on a single type of evidence
• Match the bias with its description:

  Confirmation bias ↔️ Seeking evidence that confirms beliefs

  Anecdotal bias ↔️ Over-relying on personal stories

  Selection bias ↔️ Ignoring contradictory evidence
• Outdated evidence is no longer current or directly applicable to the claim
• What is the goal of recognizing and addressing biases in evidence usage?

  Building a strong argument
• The credibility of evidence depends on whether the source is reputable and unbiased.


  True
• What type of evidence balance is needed in an argument?

  Varied evidence types
• The claim in an argument provides a clear, focused thesis statement
• A strong claim must be backed up by relevant and compelling evidence to be persuasive.


  True
• Anecdotal evidence provides relatable examples
• When evaluating credibility, consider if the source is reputable, authoritative, and unbiased
• Evaluating both credibility and relevance is crucial for building a strong, persuasive argument.


  True
• The balance of evidence involves using a variety of evidence types to avoid over-reliance on a single type
• The claim provides a clear, focused thesis statement
• Match the type of evidence with its description:

  Statistical ↔️ Numerical data

  Anecdotal ↔️ Personal stories

  Factual ↔️ Objective information

  Expert ↔️ Credible testimony
• Factual evidence is based on objective, verifiable information.


  True
• What is one factor to consider when evaluating the credibility of evidence?

  Reputable source
• Reliable evidence is based on sound methodology and verifiable data
• What is the sufficiency of evidence in an argument?

  The amount and strength needed
• Sufficient and balanced evidence is crucial for a persuasive argument.


  True
• What is a common weakness in evidence usage?

  Insufficient evidence
• Misrepresentation of evidence involves distorting or exaggerating information.


  True
• Steps to formulate conclusions about the effectiveness of evidence:

  1️⃣ Check credibility

  2️⃣ Assess relevance

  3️⃣ Evaluate sufficiency

  4️⃣ Consider balance

  5️⃣ Identify biases
• Evidence is sufficient if it is enough to be convincing