Unit Checkpoint
Instructions
This checkpoint covers all concepts from the Argument Essays unit:
- Thesis development and structure
- Body paragraph organization
- Evidence and reasoning
- Counterarguments and rebuttals
- Rhetorical techniques and analysis
Unit Checkpoint
Complete all 10 questions. Click each to check your answer.
Question 1: What are the three classical rhetorical appeals, and which focuses on the speaker's credibility?
Answer: Ethos (credibility), Pathos (emotion), Logos (logic). Ethos focuses on credibility.
Explanation: A strong argument typically uses all three: establishing trust, connecting emotionally, and providing logical evidence.
Question 2: What makes this a weak thesis? "There are pros and cons to year-round schooling."
Answer: It doesn't take a clear position on the issue.
Explanation: An argumentative thesis must make a debatable claim, not simply acknowledge that debate exists.
Question 3: In the PEEL paragraph structure, what do the letters stand for?
Answer: Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link
Explanation: Make your point (topic sentence), provide evidence, explain how it supports your claim, and link to your thesis or next point.
Question 4: Why should you address counterarguments in your essay?
Answer: Addressing counterarguments shows you've considered multiple perspectives, strengthens your credibility, and allows you to refute opposing views.
Explanation: Ignoring opposing views makes your argument seem one-sided and less persuasive.
Question 5: Identify the fallacy: "If we let students choose their own books, they'll only read comics, then stop reading altogether, and eventually become illiterate."
Answer: Slippery slope fallacy
Explanation: This assumes an extreme chain of events will inevitably follow without providing evidence for each step in the chain.
Question 6: What is the difference between a claim and evidence?
Answer: A claim is a statement you're arguing to be true; evidence is the proof (facts, data, examples) that supports the claim.
Explanation: Claims without evidence are just opinions. Evidence without claims lacks purpose and direction.
Question 7: Which transition word signals that you're about to present contrasting information? A) Moreover B) Consequently C) Nevertheless D) Additionally
Answer: C) Nevertheless
Explanation: "Nevertheless" signals contrast. "Moreover" and "Additionally" show continuation. "Consequently" shows cause/effect.
Question 8: What should an effective conclusion do? (Name at least 3 things)
Answer: An effective conclusion should: 1) Restate the thesis in new words, 2) Summarize main points, 3) Leave a lasting impression, 4) Provide broader significance or call to action.
Explanation: Conclusions should reinforce your argument without simply repeating earlier content.
Question 9: What type of evidence is generally considered most credible? A) Personal anecdotes B) Peer-reviewed research C) Celebrity endorsements D) Social media posts
Answer: B) Peer-reviewed research
Explanation: Peer-reviewed research has been evaluated by experts and is generally most reliable. Anecdotes can support but shouldn't replace data.
Question 10: Explain why this is problematic: "Studies show that students prefer later start times." (No citation)
Answer: The claim references "studies" without citing specific sources, making it unverifiable and less credible.
Explanation: Vague references to research can be used to support any claim. Specific citations (author, year, publication) allow readers to verify information.
Next Steps
- Review any questions you found challenging
- Revisit earlier lessons as needed
- Move on to the next unit when ready