Day 3 of 30
Argument structure: claims and sub-claims
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Learning Objective
Students will understand argument structure and claims and sub-claims through guided practice and application.
This lesson focuses on argument structure: claims and sub-claims. Effective communication is fundamental to academic and professional success.
Argumentative writing makes a claim and supports it with evidence and reasoning. Structure: Claim (your arguable position), Evidence (facts, statistics, expert opinions, examples), Reasoning (explanation of why the evidence supports the claim), Counterclaim (opposing argument—acknowledge it shows intellectual honesty), Rebuttal (explain why your position is still stronger despite the counterclaim). Logical fallacies weaken arguments: ad hominem (attacking the person), straw man (misrepresenting the opposing view), false dichotomy (only two options), hasty generalization (drawing broad conclusions from limited evidence). Strong arguments are logical, evidence-based, and engage seriously with the best version of opposing views.
As you engage with this material, consider both the theoretical foundations and practical applications. Think critically about how this concept builds on prior knowledge and where you might apply it beyond the classroom.
Challenge yourself to go beyond memorization—seek to understand the "why" behind the processes and principles.
The process of decoding and comprehending written text
The process of composing text to communicate ideas
Instructions
Materials Needed
- Text passage
- Notebook
- Highlighter
Teaching Tip
For advanced learners: Encourage deeper analysis and real-world connections. Consider extension activities that allow students to apply argument structure: claims and sub-claims to novel situations.