Evidence and opinions

Today's Scripture

• But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all[a] sin. 1 John 1:7

Untitled Slide

When Writing an Argument...

• State your opinion --> THESIS
• Know your audience-"What will they likely respond to?" and "What kind of language do you need to use to get your point across?"
• Choose good evidence to support it-"Facts/Statistics ," "Statements from authorities/experts ," "Personal/emotional stories"

What is Better: Opinions or Evidence?

need BOTH to make an argument

• You need BOTH to make an argument.
• All opinion with no evidence = uniformed, irrational
• All evidence with no opinion =information only
• The key is to have good balance between the two!
• Know the difference!

Separating Opinion from Evidence

Opinion=Subjective

• I-statements concerning what you believe (however in you essay you will express it with third person narrative)
• Modifiers - Adjective and Adverbs
• Qualifiers-Some, most, all Should, could, might, must
• Intensifiers-Very, extremely, really

Evidence=Objective

• Absolute & concrete
• Can be proven
• Supported by research or fact-finding

Qualifiers

• Create doubt or express “hedging” if you are trying to make reader reconsider facts/evidence
• "Richard Nixon probably resigned because of Watergate."
• "Richard Nixon resigned because of Watergate."

Intensifiers

• Words that limit or enhance characteristics of modifiers
• Texting while driving is extremely dangerous.
• Most people believe the rumors to be somewhat true.
• It’s highly unlikely that the law will pass the Senate.

Opinion or Evidence?

• GCU is one of the best universities in the state.
• Approximately 72,500 students attend GCU.
• Classrooms at GCU are equipped with the latest technology.
• We should do more as a community to help students.

Opinion or Evidence?

• Dr. Garcia, a leading expert on education, says that too many students fall behind.
• A student named Jake said he dropped out because his work schedule and family demands became too overwhelming.

A. Review the article, discuss, and answer the questions.
1. What is this op-ed about? What is the opinion of the author expressed in the op-ed piece?
2. What is the point of view expressed by the author?
3. By what means does the author attempt to persuade his audience? Is it an emotional appeal? A logical appeal? A researched appeal? A moral appeal? Does this type of appeal persuade the reader into an agreement with his main point?
B. Second, take a look at the "agree" or "disagree" sign assigned to your article. Then come up with 3 arguments for your article.
Then be prepared to debate and share your position in front of the class. Think about how your group can weaken the other group's view.