How can an argument be strengthened by

identifying the opposing claim and arguing against it?

In this lesson you will learn how to strengthen your

argument by identifying the opposing claim

and arguing against it.

Let’s Review

Pros Cons

A Common Mistake

Ignoring the opposing viewpoint.

Wait, what about . . . ?

Core Lesson

Identify the opposing claim1

2 Produce reasons and evidence that the position is incorrect

3 Revise essay to identify and argue against the opposing claim

Core Lesson

In schools, students are always told that eating healthy is extremely important. The schools teach this, yet the lunches served are unhealthy. Studies show that many schools serve food that is high in fat, sodium, and calories. Plus, kids do not want to eat the poor tasting food, so instead they buy or bring junk food to eat.

Core LessonWhat is the

opposing claim to my argument?

School lunches ARE NOT healthy.

School lunches ARE

healthy.

Core Lesson

• The Healthy, Hunger Free Kids Act of 2010 set up guidelines for schools (USDA)

• Whole grains are required as part of school lunches

• All school lunches include fruits and vegetables

What evidence can I use to prove the opposing

claim as incorrect?

Core Lesson

In schools, students are always told that eating healthy is extremely important. The schools teach this, yet the lunches served are unhealthy. Studies show that many schools serve food that is high is fat, sodium, and calories. Plus, kids do not want to eat the poor tasting food, so instead they buy or bring junk food to eat.

How do I revise my essay to argue

against the opposing claim?

In schools, students are always told that eating healthy is extremely important. The schools teach this, yet the lunches served are unhealthy. The Healthy, Hunger Free Kids Act of 2010 set up guidelines for healthy lunches, but studies show that many schools serve food that is high in fat, sodium, and calories. My school does not even serve fruit or whole grain bread! Plus, kids do not want to eat the poor tasting food, so instead they buy or bring junk food to eat.

Core Lesson

Identify the opposing claim1

2 Produce reasons and evidence that the position is incorrect

3 Revise essay to identify and argue against the opposing claim

In this lesson you have learned how to strengthen

your argument by identifying the opposing

claim and arguing against it.

Guided Practice

Practice by coming up with your own opposing claim and argument against it for either of the topics below.

• School lunches are not tasty.

• School lunches offer no options.

Opposing Claim Argument Against

Extension Activities

Extension Activities

With a partner, find an op-ed article in the local paper. Read it and make a list of ways that it could be improved through acknowledgement of the opposing claim.

Extension Activities

Extension Activities

Write a paragraph for your argumentative essay. Then, have a partner make a list of recommendations for use of the opposing claim that would help to enhance your essay.

Extension Activities

Extension Activities

On your own, read your argumentative essay and make a list of counter claims and arguments against them that you might be able to use.

Let’s ReviewQuick Quiz

Read your argumentative essay and make revisions using counter claims to more effectively convince the reader of your position.