Evaluating Arguments in Non-Fiction
Evaluate arguments and claims in non-fiction texts — assess whether reasoning is sound, evidence is relevant and sufficient, distinguish between fact and opinion, and recognise bias, propaganda, and rhetorical techniques
What a learner can do afterwards
- Identify the main claim in an argument text and evaluate whether the evidence presented is sufficient
- Spot logical fallacies or irrelevant evidence introduced to distract from weak reasoning
- Compare two opposing arguments on the same issue and evaluate which is more convincing, with reasons
The lesson
Every argument makes a claim and gives reasons to back it up. A sharp reader checks two things: is the evidence actually related to the claim, and is there enough of it? One example rarely proves a big claim.
Sometimes writers add things that don't really support their claim. Attacking a person's character instead of their idea is called an ad hominem attack. Saying an idea must be right because many people believe it is called a bandwagon fallacy. Both distract you from weak reasoning.
A speech claims 'Our team should get new uniforms' and adds 'the coach wore an ugly tie once.' That fact about the tie is irrelevant. It has nothing to do with whether new uniforms are a good idea, so it doesn't strengthen the argument at all.
When two arguments disagree, don't pick a side just because one sounds more confident or passionate. Ask which one gives evidence that is relevant and sufficient, and whose reasoning actually holds up.
A strong argument gives relevant, sufficient evidence, not just confident words or distracting facts.
Watch it
Where it sits
Where this leads
8 questions wait behind this lesson, each with its answer explained. Every answer feeds the sky: stars light as they are learned, and dim when it is time to come back.