Backing Up an Opinion
Understand how to move beyond making bare assertions by taking account of differing ideas or opinions and authoritative sources.
Read this first
An opinion with nothing behind it is a bare assertion. Add evidence and it becomes an argument.
Words you need
- Assertion
- A claim with nothing to back it up.
- Evidence
- A fact, example or source that supports the claim.
- Source
- Where the evidence came from.
- Counterargument
- The other side's point.
Worked example
e.g. Strengthen this: Our town needs a new library.
- Right now it is a bare assertion. Nobody has to believe it.
- Step one: add a reason. Why does the town need one?
- The old library has only 20 seats.
- Step two: add evidence. Give a number or a source.
- Council figures show 400 visitors a week.
- Step three: name the source. It makes the evidence trustworthy.
- Step four: face the other side. Someone will mention cost.
- A new building is costly, but repairs already cost thousands each year.
Claim, reason, evidence, then answer the other side.
Practice
Claim, reason, evidence, source.
1What is a claim with no support called?with a picture
AnswerA bare assertion.
2What makes evidence more trustworthy?with a picture
AnswerNaming where it came from.
3Everyone knows phones are bad for kids. What is weak here?with a hint
Need a hint?
Who is everyone?
AnswerNo evidence and no source. Everyone knows proves nothing.
4Add evidence to: Our canteen should sell fruit.with a hint
Need a hint?
A number or a survey helps.
AnswerA class survey found 22 of 28 students would buy it.
5Why mention the other side's point at all?on your own
AnswerIt shows you have thought it through. Ignoring it looks weak.
6Which is stronger evidence: a number, or the word obviously?on your own
AnswerA number. Obviously adds nothing.
Think about it
1
Why do writers use phrases like everyone knows?
One good answerIt sounds like agreement without needing proof. Watch for it.
2
Can evidence be true but still weak?
One good answerYes. One person's story does not prove a general claim.
Common mistakes
Saying it more firmly makes it stronger.
It does not. Confidence is not evidence.
Mentioning the other side weakens my case.
Only if you leave it unanswered. Answer it and you look stronger.