GED RLA Extended Response: Parts of an Argument

We use arguments all the time to convince people to believe and act the way we want. For the Extended Response, you will read two passages that make an argument. Then you will write a response that argues which of the two passages is better supported. Knowing the parts of an effective argument will help.

Part / Definition
1) Claim / The specific argument
What is the author trying to get the reader to believe or do?
Types of claims on the GED:
  • Claims of value: Assert something is right or wrong, better or worse. Ex.: McDonald’s is better than Taco Bell.
  • Claims of policy: Assert that one course of action, often a law, is better than another. Ex.: Schools should offer more elective classes.

2) Reasons / Explanations for why the claim is correct
How does the speaker or author try to prove his or her claim?
As the reader, evaluate if the reasons are strong (specific, relevant, sufficient, and logical) or weak (vague, irrelevant, insufficient, and illogical). Then as the writer, provide strong reasons to support your claim (which passage is better supported).
3) Evidence / The proof to support each reason
How do we know the reasons are true?
You must evaluate the evidence to see if it is strong (reliable, clear, and relevant). Types:
  • Specific examples or cases
  • Opinion of experts/ authorities
  • Statistics or facts
  • Results of surveys, polls, questionnaires, or scientific studies

4) Counter-claim / The arguments against the claim
What does the opposing side say about the issue?
5) Rebuttal / The response to the counterclaim
How does the author respond to what the opposite side says?
Acknowledges the counterclaim and provides evidence that the counterclaim is either not true or is weak in comparison and stresses the importance of the claim
Everyday Example
Claim: Sam has an ear infection.
Reasons: Sam has ear pain and a high fever.
Evidence: Sam has been complaining for several hours and doesn’t even want to visit his friends because of the intensity of the pain. The thermometer says he has a temp of 102 degrees.
Counterclaim: No, Sam just has the flu.
Rebuttal: It might seem like the flu because of the fever, but his acute ear pain proves it’s more serious.