7.2. Argument development

• A weak argument has a disjointed and illogical flow of ideas.

  True
• Steps to identify the main argument and supporting points in a text

  1️⃣ Look for the main argument

  2️⃣ Identify the thesis statement

  3️⃣ Analyze supporting points

  4️⃣ Evaluate the relevance of evidence
• A strong argument anticipates and addresses counterarguments
• Statistics add numerical credibility to an argument.


  True
• A logical progression of ideas is a characteristic of a weak argument.

  False
• Evidence should always be linked back to the thesis
• A well-structured argument has a clear progression of ideas
• Concluding an argument involves reinforcing the central claim and its significance.


  True
• What is the main argument in a text typically stated?

  Clear thesis statement
• What are supporting points in an argument designed to do?

  Support the main argument
• Order the following types of evidence from most to least formal:

  1️⃣ Statistics

  2️⃣ Expert Opinions

  3️⃣ Examples

  4️⃣ Anecdotes

  5️⃣ Quotes
• Anecdotes are personal stories used to make concepts relatable.

  True
• Signposting in an argument uses transitional phrases to orient the reader.


  True
• Order the steps for structuring an argument logically:

  1️⃣ Start with a clear thesis statement

  2️⃣ Organize supporting points logically

  3️⃣ Use transitions between ideas

  4️⃣ Anticipate and address counterarguments

  5️⃣ Conclude by reinforcing the thesis
• To transition effectively, transitional phrases should signal the relationship between ideas and orient the reader
• When refuting a counterargument, it is important to acknowledge the opposing view
• What is the purpose of argument development?

  Present a persuasive case
• What is the role of a conclusion in a strong argument?

  Reinforce the central argument
• A strong argument must have a clear thesis statement.

  True
• What are three rhetorical techniques used to develop a strong argument?

  Reasoning, examples, persuasive language
• What is the central aim of a thesis statement in an argument?

  To persuade the reader
• Match the type of evidence with its description:

  Statistics ↔️ Numerical data supporting claims

  Examples ↔️ Specific instances to illustrate points

  Expert Opinions ↔️ Statements from authorities

  Anecdotes ↔️ Personal stories to make concepts relatable

  Quotes ↔️ Direct extracts from relevant texts
• Linking evidence to the thesis strengthens the argument.

  True
• Match the characteristic with its description:

  Logical flow ↔️ Ideas build upon each other coherently

  Smooth transitions ↔️ Seamless connections between paragraphs

  Signposting ↔️ Use of transitional phrases

  Organized sections ↔️ Argument divided into introduction, body, and conclusion
• The first step in structuring an argument logically is to start with a clear thesis statement.
• What are three rhetorical techniques used to develop a strong argument?

  Reasoning, examples, persuasion
• What type of evidence uses numerical data to add credibility to an argument?

  Statistics
• What is the purpose of using quotes in an argument?

  Support the main points
• What are the three main sections of an organized argument structure?

  Introduction, body, conclusion
• Effective transitions in an argument create a logical flow between points.


  True
• Smooth transitions strengthen an argument by creating a logical progression.


  True
• Order the steps for refuting counterarguments:

  1️⃣ Identify potential counterarguments

  2️⃣ Acknowledge the counterargument

  3️⃣ Provide a rebuttal

  4️⃣ Use evidence and reasoning

  5️⃣ Transition back to the main argument
• To refute a counterargument, you should first acknowledge it rather than ignore or dismiss
• What is one characteristic of a strong argument?

  Logical flow
• A strong argument begins with a clear thesis statement
• Developing a strong argument requires thorough research and the use of rhetorical techniques
• What type of evidence is numerical data used to add credibility to an argument?

  Statistics
• Types of evidence used to develop supporting points in an argument

  1️⃣ Statistics

  2️⃣ Examples

  3️⃣ Expert opinions
• Supporting points in an argument provide reasons, evidence, and explanations to support the central claim
• What is the primary goal of structuring an argument logically?

  To guide the reader