Grade: Grade 5 Subject: English Language Arts Unit: Argument Writing Lesson: 5 of 6 SAT: Information+Ideas ACT: Reading

Review Common Mistakes

Learn

Why Review Mistakes?

Even strong writers make mistakes in argument writing. Learning to spot common errors helps you:

  • Fix problems in your own writing
  • Recognize weak arguments when you read
  • Score higher on tests like the SAT and ACT

In this lesson, you will learn about the most common mistakes and how to fix them.

Editor's Mindset

When reviewing writing, pretend you are an editor helping a friend. Look for ways to make the argument stronger and clearer.

Common Mistakes and Fixes

Mistake 1: Vague or Weak Claims

A weak claim is too broad, too vague, or impossible to prove.

Wrong: "Pizza is the best food ever."
Problem: "Best" is subjective and cannot be proven.
Better: "Schools should serve pizza once a week because students eat more when they enjoy their food."
This is specific and can be supported with evidence.

Mistake 2: Irrelevant Evidence

Evidence that does not directly support the claim weakens your argument.

Wrong: Claim: "Students should have longer recess."
Evidence: "My school was built in 1985."
Problem: The building's age has nothing to do with recess length.
Better: Evidence: "Studies show students who have 30 minutes of recess focus 20% better in class."
This directly supports the claim.

Mistake 3: Ignoring Counterarguments

Pretending the other side does not exist makes your argument seem one-sided.

Wrong: "Everyone agrees that homework should be banned."
Problem: Not everyone agrees, and this ignores valid concerns.
Better: "While some teachers believe homework builds responsibility, research shows that too much homework causes stress without improving learning."
This acknowledges and responds to the other side.

Mistake 4: Using "Everyone" or "Always"

Absolute words are easy to disprove and weaken your argument.

Wrong: "Everyone loves video games."
Problem: It only takes one person who dislikes games to disprove this.
Better: "Many students enjoy video games, and research shows they can improve problem-solving skills."
Using "many" is more accurate and harder to argue against.

Mistake 5: No Source for Evidence

Unsupported facts make readers question your credibility.

Wrong: "Studies prove that music helps you study."
Problem: Which studies? Who did them?
Better: "According to researchers at Stanford University, listening to classical music can improve concentration."
Naming the source builds trust.

Practice: Spot the Mistakes

Question 1

What is wrong with this claim? "Cats are obviously better than dogs."

Question 2

Claim: "Schools should start later." Which evidence is IRRELEVANT?

Question 3

Which sentence uses an absolute word that weakens the argument?

Question 4

What is missing from this evidence? "Studies show video games help learning."

Question 5

Which version better addresses a counterargument?

Question 6

How would you fix this claim? "Homework is bad."

Question 7

Which sentence is the STRONGEST evidence?

Question 8

What makes this counterargument response weak? "Some say uniforms limit creativity, but I disagree."

Question 9

Which claim is MOST debatable (can be argued for or against)?

Question 10

A student writes: "Nobody likes homework." How should they revise this?

Summary

🎯

Be Specific

Avoid vague claims that cannot be proven

🔗

Stay Relevant

Evidence must directly support your claim

⚖️

Acknowledge Others

Address and respond to counterarguments

📚

Cite Sources

Name your sources to build credibility

Key Takeaway

Strong arguments avoid common mistakes by being specific, using relevant evidence, addressing counterarguments, and citing sources. Review your writing with these criteria in mind!

Next Steps

  • Review one of your own essays for these common mistakes
  • Practice revising weak claims to make them stronger
  • Move on to Mixed Practice Set to test all your argument skills