Writing an Argumentative CLAIM

#1---Convinces reader claim is true #2---Uses evidence: facts and data #3---Acknowledges counterclaims-- the other side of the argument #4—Strong conclusion

What is a CLAIM?

A CLAIM is the ROAD MAP of the paper

(1)based on OPINION The argumentative CLAIM is… Remember: An opinion cannot be proved. Look for key words such as Should…Should be… What is the difference? (A) Students use cell phones in between classes. (B) Students should be allowed to use cell phones in between classes. (2) based on CONTROVERSY Why would you not write the following as an argumentative claim? The federal government should illegalize murder. Correct! This is an opinion on which everybody agrees.

(3) a statement of affirmation (4) written with clarity Always use POSITIVE statements. NOT THIS: Americans should not drive as much as they do. USE THIS: Americans should reduce their use of automobiles. Ex: What’s wrong with statement? Global warming should be stopped Improved: Governments should act to reduce vehicle emissions and promote all energy forms. Correct! It doesn’t mention who or how.

(5) arguable What is wrong with this claim? I like to watch reality television. Correct! You can’t research this. However, you CAN research… Television producers should program more reality television.

HOW TO WRITE AN ARGUMENTATIVE CLAIM

An effective CLAIM is made up of 3 parts controversy+ opinion+ reason

Step 1-Start with looking at the controversy “I neeeeeed a new cell phone.” VS “No, you do not neeeeeed a new cell phone.”

Continue Step 1 -After locating the controversy, choose a transition phrase to contrast your opinion. Although While Even though **Now write the beginning of your claim.** Example: Although my mother thinks buying me a new cell phone would be a waste of money,

STOP!! Be sure not to use “I think” or “in my opinion.” 2 - Step 2, add your opinion Example: Although my mother thinks buying me a new cell phone would be a waste of money, I need a new cell phone…

3-Last step. Simply add reason(s) for your opinion. In other words, think of the best and most convincing reasons WHY the audience should believe you. Example: Although my mother thinks buying me a cell phone would be a waste of money, I need a cell phone to stay in contact with my family and friends. Transition word Controversy Opinion Reasons

A CLAIM IS  1-based on an opinion  2-based on controversy  3-a statement of affirmation  4-written with clarity  5-arguable A WELL-WRITTEN CLAIM HAS 3 PARTS  Controversy  Opinions  Reasons Points to Remember

NOW, THAT BEING SAID, you CAN make a claim without mentioning the controversy. Let’s take a look at different types of claims (without using the counterclaim, or controversy).

Example: In the short story “Gift of the Magi” by O. Henry, the two characters provide an outstanding illustration of what “being foolish” means.

e Example: Rikki Tikki Tavi’s victory over the snakes was a result of his natural abilities as a mongoose rather than his natural desire to protect the people in the cottage.

e Example: While Perrault’s “Cinderella” is an interesting story, it is a second-rate story when compared to Grimm’s version of “Cinderella.”

The Capulets have their daughter’s well- being in mind when they follow tradition and make arrangements for her to marry Paris.