Claims, Reasoning, and Evidence
Which of the following best describes a 'claim' in the context of argumentative writing?
A fact that is universally accepted.
The writer's main point or argument.
Background information about the topic.
A personal opinion that cannot be debated.
Which element of the rhetorical situation refers to the issue or situation that prompts someone to write or speak?
Purpose
Audience
Exigence
Context
What is the difference between the 'purpose' and the 'exigence' in a rhetorical situation?
Purpose is the speaker's background, while exigence is the audience's knowledge.
Purpose is what the writer wants to achieve, while exigence is what prompts the writing.
Purpose is the context of the writing, while exigence is the message.
Purpose is who the writer is trying to reach, while exigence is the time and place of the writing.
How would a shift in audience from academic scholars to the general public most likely impact a writer's text?
The writer would use more technical jargon.
The writer would focus on complex theoretical arguments.
The writer would simplify the language and provide more background information.
The writer would shorten the text to maintain the audience's attention.
Which of the following sentences best represents the main claim of the passage: 'Studies show that students who regularly eat breakfast perform better academically. A balanced breakfast provides essential nutrients that fuel the brain and improve concentration. Therefore, schools should provide free breakfast programs ...
Studies show that students who regularly eat breakfast perform better academically.
A balanced breakfast provides essential nutrients.
Schools should provide free breakfast programs for all students.
A balanced breakfast improves concentration.
Which of the following is an example of a supporting detail rather than a main claim?
The minimum legal driving age should be raised to 18.
Increased funding for public schools is essential for improving educational outcomes.
Regular exercise has numerous health benefits.
Studies show a correlation between screen time and decreased attention spans.
Which of the following is the best example of anecdotal evidence?
A peer-reviewed study published in a scientific journal.
Statistics from a government census.
A personal story about how a product helped someone.
Data collected from a large-scale survey.

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A study funded by a soda company claims that sugary drinks have no significant impact on weight gain. What aspect of this evidence should be questioned?
The sample size of the study.
The relevance of the study to the topic.
The credibility of the source due to potential bias.
The statistical methods used in the study.
A politician argues that climate change is not a serious threat, pointing to a single unusually cold winter as evidence. What logical fallacy is present in this argument?
Ad hominem
Straw man
Hasty generalization
Bandwagon
An argument states: 'All men are mortal. Socrates is a man. Therefore, Socrates is mortal.' What type of reasoning is used in this argument?
Inductive
Deductive
Abductive
Analogical