ARGUMENTATIVE TEXT
Argumentative text refers to text that takes a position about an idea or topic. The position can be for or against an idea, and the author of the text will support his or her position with extensive evidence. Some ideas to keep in mind while reading argumentative text are the claims, the evidence, any alternative viewpoints, and the audience.
A claim is the position an author takes in an argumentative text. It may also be referred to as the main argument or the thesis. A claim is not just an opinion or a statement of fact.
Evidence refers to facts or information that help indicate that a certain idea is true or false. There are many different types of evidence that can be used to support an argument.
Alternative viewpoints are ideas or positions that oppose or differ from the author's in some way. Considering and addressing alternatives in a text allows authors to use
evidence to argue against them, which in turn will help strengthen the validity of their position.
The audience refers to the people that the author of a text is writing to. The topic, style of writing, and structure of a text may all change depending on whom the intended audience is.
7th Grade Reading - Argumentative Text Lesson