Building Arguments

Objective: Understand assert and choose it accurately in context.

assert (verb): To state an idea firmly and confidently as true. Context sentences 1. The editors assert that students deserve a voice in school decisions. 2. During the discussion, I assert my position clearly instead of speaking as though I am unsure. 3. The essay should assert its main point before presenting supporting examples.

Objective: Understand claim and choose it accurately in context.

claim (verb): To say that something is true, even though it may still need proof. Context sentences 1. The candidates claim that their plans will improve attendance. 2. You cannot simply claim that the new schedule works better without explaining why. 3. Several characters claim to know where the missing letter is hidden.

Objective: Understand argue and choose it accurately in context.

argue (verb): To give reasons intended to support an opinion or position. Context sentences 1. In her essay, Nia will argue that the town needs more public gardens. 2. The speakers argue for a longer lunch period by explaining how the current schedule affects students. 3. You can argue against a proposal respectfully while recognizing its strengths.

Objective: Understand maintain and choose it accurately in context.

maintain (verb): To continue stating that a position is true despite disagreement or doubt. Context sentences 1. Even after the debate, the students maintain that their proposal is practical. 2. The author continues to maintain that the narrator acted honestly. 3. Despite criticism from her classmates, Ava will maintain that the ending fits the story.

Objective: Understand emphasize and choose it accurately in context.

emphasize (verb): To give special attention or importance to a particular point. Context sentences 1. The speaker will emphasize the need for clear directions. 2. These examples emphasize the difference between an opinion and a supported conclusion. 3. In your introduction, emphasize the problem that your proposal would solve.

Objective: Understand acknowledge and choose it accurately in context.

acknowledge (verb): To recognize or admit that a fact, condition, or viewpoint exists or is valid. Context sentences 1. A careful writer should acknowledge the limits of the available evidence. 2. The students acknowledge that the project will require more time than they expected. 3. You can acknowledge another person's concern without accepting the proposed solution.

Objective: Understand concede and choose it accurately in context.

concede (verb): To admit that an opposing point is true or valid, often reluctantly. Context sentences 1. I concede that the other plan costs less, although I still prefer ours. 2. After checking the map, the debaters concede that their opponent named the correct location. 3. A writer may concede a minor point while continuing to support the main argument.

Objective: Understand challenge and choose it accurately in context.

challenge (verb): To dispute an idea or position and call for it to be supported or reconsidered. Context sentences 1. The new evidence may challenge the committee's explanation. 2. Students should challenge unfair rules by explaining the problems those rules create. 3. The reviewer will challenge the assumption that a longer essay is always stronger.

Objective: Understand question and choose it accurately in context.

question (verb): To express doubt about whether something is true, valid, or appropriate. Context sentences 1. The missing records lead us to question the report's accuracy. 2. Readers may question whether the narrator remembers the event correctly. 3. The committee should question a policy that treats similar cases differently.

Objective: Understand defend and choose it accurately in context.

defend (verb): To support a position or action with reasons when it faces criticism. Context sentences 1. The principal will defend the schedule change by explaining its benefits. 2. Writers must be ready to defend their conclusions with relevant evidence. 3. During the debate, we defend our proposal against objections about its cost.