Trace an argument: set 1

Key notes :

In a persuasive essay, an author tries to convince readers to do something or believe something. A persuasive essay usually includes a main claim, supporting claims, and evidence.

The main claim is the author’s central argument.

The supporting claims are the reasons that support the author’s main claim.

The evidence backs up the supporting claims. Evidence is often information like facts or statistics.

Besides these parts of the essay, an author may use other strategies to persuade readers. For example, the author may introduce an opposing claim, or a claim that disagrees with the essay’s main claim. The author might explain the opposing claim and give reasons why the opposing claim is weak.

When you read a persuasive essay, consider how it uses supporting claims, evidence and other strategies. Sometimes an author may use reasoning that is not valid or may include evidence that is not relevant to the main claim. Think critically about the reasoning in a persuasive essay. One strategy is to imagine how an opponent might attack or critique the essay’s supporting claims and evidence. This will help you decide whether the author’s argument is reliable and reasonable.

let’s practice!