Transitions for Supporting a Claim Transition Words and Phrases: Writing An Argument
Starting your essay by making a counterclaim in writing from the very first sentence may seem daunting, but you will find that it often provides a profound impact to the argumentative strength of your opposing claim. In this article, we explore various useful counter argument starters and example phrases for you to incorporate into the first few sentences of your essay. Best Way to Make a ...
The document discusses using appropriate grammatical signals or expressions for claim and counterclaim patterns of idea development. It provides definitions for claim and counterclaim and examples of using transition words to structure a counterclaim. Students are divided into groups to practice converting statements into counterclaims using transition words.
2. Reject the counterclaim. For example, This view ignores the conclusive evidence that… This position is mistaken because… 3. Criticize the evidence and analysis of the counterclaim as being unimportant, irrelevant, or a misinterpretation. For example, this argument misses the key point that… 4.
The opposing argument, called the counterclaim or counterargument, proves that you fully understand the topic and that you have considered the opposition. Transition words and phrases to use in the counterargument:
Counterclaim transition words and phrases play a crucial role in argumentative essays. Their primary function is to signal a shift in argument or viewpoint, allowing the author to introduce an opposing perspective.
Here are some transitions or signal words for bringing the paper back to your main claim and setting up your rebuttal to the counterclaim. What this argument [overlooks/fails to consider/does not take into account] is ...
Transition words can fall into more than one category based on what type of transition in your paragraph you’re planning to make. For example, you’d want a different transition word if your second paragraph contradicts your first than if it supports it.
Transitional phrases guide readers through your argument and ensure that the flow between your main claim and the counterclaim remains smooth. Examples include:
It is when you recognize the other side of the debate in order to strengthen your own argument. In other words, it’s the thesis making the OPPOSITE (aka: counter) point.
Pattern Two Transition Word + it is argued that + (argument against your thesis) Nevertheless, it is argued that . . . 2) Evidence which supports the counterclaim: Evidence which shows the validity of the counterclaim 3) Explanation of counterclaim: Summarizes the other side’s objection and acknowledges the validity of the objection.
General Students learn about the importance of a counterclaim and how it strengthens their argument in an argumentative essay. They will learn how to include a counterclaim in their writing, using transitions and sentence starters, writing a rebuttal, and supporting with evidence and examples.
Transitions for Counterclaim Remember, a counterclaim is an argument that would be used against another argument. Words like but, on the other hand, conversely, whereas, and however go against an argument. You want to use these words to refute the other side’s counterclaim. Keep in mind the comma goes after the transition word.
Evidence + Pick the best evidence to support the opposing point of view. Don’t pick a “straw man.” In other words, don’t pick a weak opposing argument that is too easy to refute. Analysis + Explanation, insight, example, logic to support the counterclaim evidence Second Contrasting Transition +
Transition words and phrases can help to clearly structure arguments, making it easier to present claims, counterclaims, and supporting evidence in a logical flow.
