3 Constructing Academic Arguments Free Online FlashCards

What distinguishes an academic argument from simply stating an opinion?

An academic argument makes a reasoned case for a claim using relevant evidence, explains how the evidence supports it, and considers plausible alternatives.

What does a thesis do in an academic paper?

A thesis is the central claim that gives a paper’s main answer to a question.

Why must a writer explain how evidence supports a claim?

Evidence does not support a claim merely by appearing beside it. Explain what it shows, how it relates to the claim, and what it cannot establish.

What is a counterargument?

A counterargument is a reasonable objection or alternative explanation that challenges a thesis, premise, evidence, or consequence.

What is a hasty generalization?

A hasty generalization draws a broad conclusion from too few or unrepresentative examples.

What makes a claim arguable?

An arguable claim invites reasonable disagreement and can be defended with evidence.

Why might a writer qualify a claim?

Qualifiers such as “often” or “in some cases” limit a claim to what its evidence can support and make it more accurate.

What are the three parts of an argument chain?

The three parts are claim, evidence, and reasoning: what readers should accept, what supports it, and why that support matters.

What is a warrant in an argument?

A warrant is an assumption connecting evidence to a claim. Make it clear when readers might question that connection.

What should a writer check when evaluating a source?

Check who produced it, what evidence it relies on, and whether it is current enough for the topic.

How should a writer choose and present a counterargument?

Choose the strongest relevant objection and represent it accurately, rather than using a weak version that is easy to dismiss.

What can a concession accomplish when answering an objection?

A concession acknowledges what an objection gets right and can clarify the limits of the writer’s own claim.