Guided Practice
Learning Objectives
In this guided practice lesson, you will:
- Apply argument structure to sample prompts
- Practice developing claims with supporting evidence
- Work through thesis-to-conclusion writing
- Build fluency in argumentative writing techniques
Practice Quiz
Work through these 10 questions about argumentative writing. Click each to reveal the answer.
Question 1: Which is the strongest thesis statement? A) "Social media is bad." B) "Social media negatively impacts teenagers' mental health by promoting unrealistic comparisons and reducing face-to-face interactions." C) "I will discuss social media."
Answer: B
Explanation: B is specific, arguable, and previews the supporting points. A is too vague, and C is an announcement rather than an argument.
Question 2: What is the primary purpose of a counterargument in an essay?
Answer: To acknowledge opposing viewpoints and refute them, strengthening your own argument.
Explanation: Including and addressing counterarguments shows you've considered multiple perspectives and makes your argument more credible.
Question 3: Which sentence is the best topic sentence for a body paragraph? A) "There are many reasons." B) "Standardized testing creates unnecessary stress that hinders student learning." C) "First, I want to talk about tests."
Answer: B
Explanation: B makes a specific claim that the paragraph will support. It clearly states the point and prepares readers for evidence.
Question 4: What type of evidence would best support the claim "Exercise improves academic performance"?
Answer: Research studies showing correlation between physical activity and grades/test scores, expert opinions from educational psychologists, or statistics from schools with exercise programs.
Explanation: Strong evidence includes credible sources like peer-reviewed studies, expert testimony, and verifiable data.
Question 5: Identify the logical fallacy: "Everyone is getting a smartphone, so you should too."
Answer: Bandwagon fallacy (appeal to popularity)
Explanation: Just because something is popular doesn't make it right or necessary. Arguments should be based on logical reasoning, not peer pressure.
Question 6: Which transition best shows contrast between ideas? A) "Furthermore" B) "However" C) "Additionally" D) "Similarly"
Answer: B) "However"
Explanation: "However" signals a contrast or counterpoint. The other options show addition or similarity.
Question 7: What is wrong with this claim: "Pizza is the best food in the world"?
Answer: It's a statement of personal preference, not an arguable claim.
Explanation: Effective arguments require claims that can be debated with evidence and reason, not just matters of taste.
Question 8: Put these in order for a body paragraph: A) Evidence B) Topic sentence C) Explanation/analysis D) Transition to next point
Answer: B, A, C, D (Topic sentence, Evidence, Explanation, Transition)
Explanation: Start with your claim (topic sentence), provide evidence, explain how the evidence supports your claim, then transition to the next idea.
Question 9: Which conclusion technique is most effective? A) "In conclusion, that's what I think." B) Restating the thesis word-for-word. C) Connecting your argument to a broader implication or call to action.
Answer: C
Explanation: Effective conclusions extend the argument's significance, suggest implications, or call readers to action. They should not simply repeat earlier content.
Question 10: Rewrite this weak thesis into a strong one: "I will write about school uniforms."
Answer: Example: "Mandatory school uniforms should be eliminated because they suppress individual expression, do not improve academic performance, and place financial burden on families."
Explanation: A strong thesis takes a clear position and previews the main supporting points.
Next Steps
- Practice writing thesis statements for different topics
- Work on identifying strong vs. weak evidence
- Move on to text analysis when ready