COUNTER

CLAIMS
 Let's share!
Formulating
Counterclaims
• A critical reader does not
only focus on the claim of a
written text. Analyzing an
argument must also involve
the understanding of the
evidence presented by the
writer as well as its
counterclaims
What is Counter claim?
• Counterclaims, as defined by Tiongson
(2016), are “claims made to rebut a previous
claim. This point of view is in contrast to
previous claims made by the author.

According to the same writer, it takes the familiarity of the topic

being discussed in the text as one of the ways to spot the
counterclaims of the writer. To present objectivity, the writer
must be aware of the counterclaims to his or her claims.
Considering the other side of the argument may help you
identify the weaknesses and strengths of your claim, giving you
the leeway to open more details to make the reader believe.
The counterclaims in the text are usually
presented straightforwardly. After spotting these
statements, you, as a reader or writer, can clearly
define your position on a particular topic.
"Popsicles are
so much
better than ice cream." "Well,
that's your opinion."
Tiongson gave the following questions that can help
you formulate a counterclaim:
• What are the major points on which you and the
author can disagree? The climate is
changing, why aren't
• What is their strongest argument? What did they we?

say to defend their position?

• What are the merits of their view?
• What are the weaknesses or shortcomings in their
argument?
• Are there any hidden assumptions?
• Which lines from the text best support the
counterclaim you have formulated?
You must recognize the value of hedges when
you state your counterclaims. According to
Belino (2017), a hedge is a word or phrase that
minimizes the negative impact of criticism. It
is used to give a courteous tone in your
writing. Hedges could come in different forms
such as
a) modals – may, could, would, should, etc.; b)
Frequency adverbs – usually, generally,
commonly; and c) Probability adverbs –
probably, possibly, presumably.
Look at the following examples of
claims and counterclaims.

Claim: Students should not be allowed to bring

cellphones to school because they are distracting and
can be used for cheating.

Counterclaim: Students should be able to bring

cellphones to school because digital literacy can be
used for educational purposes.
ACTIVITY: Show Me!

CLAIM: Prioritizing asynchronous classes over face-to-face instruction in the second

semester mitigates the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke among students and
teachers, ensuring their safety during periods of extreme heat.

YOUR COUNTER CLAIM:

______________________________________________________________________

CLAIM: Planting more trees in cities can lower the heat by giving shade and cooling
the air.

YOUR COUNTER CLAIM:

______________________________________________________________________
Activity:
Cats vs. Dogs?
Choose a side: Cats or Dogs. Think about
which pet you believe is better and why.

Next, gather into small groups based on

your chosen pet. Discuss among
yourselves and come up with reasons and
evidence to support your claim.

Think about the unique qualities, benefits, and

experiences associated with your preferred pet!
Addressing counterclaims

Did you try to anticipate what the other

side's arguments were?
• Counterclaims present opposing
viewpoints or alternative claims.
Going back to our
example,

A counterclaim would be:

• "Climate change is a natural process and not
influenced by human activities."

To strengthen our argument, we should address

counterclaims and provide evidence and
reasoning to counter them!
To address this
counterclaim
You could provide the following:

• Reason: Human activities definitely contribute

to greenhouse gas emissions.
• Evidence: Scientific studies that demonstrate
the link between human-induced
greenhouse gas emissions and global
warming.
In closing,
By understanding key components of argumentation, we can craft compelling arguments.

Strong arguments have clear claims, with reasons supported by evidence.

Strong arguments also address counterclaims with reasons and evidence.

Additional activity:
Informal Debate

Choose one person to share your claim,

reasons, and evidence for your stand regarding
cats vs. dogs in class tomorrow. Make sure you
anticipate the counterarguments of each side.

The group with the most convincing argument

supported by logical reasons and credible,
factual evidence will win!

Good luck!