Core 8

Reading and Writing Skills

Yiela Lim
Additional Points to consider when evaluating a text

Authority of the authors in writing ➢ Is the writer an authority in the

texts subject matter?
➢ Does the author display some
level of authority in writing the
text?

Quality of the work ➢ Does the writer make use of

methodologies in writing?
➢ Is the methodology
appropriate?
➢ Are the ideas reliable?
➢ Is the information accurate?
Reliable? Up-to-date?

What is an argument?

➢ Stands on an issue
➢ Seeks to persuade an audience
➢ Not a description or a summary

An argument is a line of reasoning designed to prove a point. Regardless of

length and complexity, all arguments have the same basic framework: the author
states some central idea, and then presents supporting evidence, laying it out in
a logical pattern. The central point of an argument is called the conclusion. It is
also a disagreement between two or more people, but it can also be a statement
backed by evidence, like your argument that your school doesn't need a dress
code. Argument also means "a discussion between people who have contrary
views."

In academic writing, an argument is usually a main idea, often called a “claim” or

“thesis statement,” backed up with evidence that supports the idea. In other
words, gone are the happy days of being given a “topic” about which you can
write anything.
Difference between an argument and a thesis

Argument The claim/assertion (conclusion)

Thesis A-R-E (assertion, reasons, evidences)

- premise
What about counter arguments?

One way to strengthen your argument and show that you have a deep
understanding of the issue you are discussing is to anticipate and address
counterarguments or objections. By considering what someone disagrees with
your position might have to say about your argument, you show that you have
thought things through, and you dispose of some of the reasons your audience
might have for not accepting your arguments.