Writing Evidence-Based Claims Flashcards

Read this sentence: 'Many experts agree that climate change is real.' What improvement would make this stronger evidence?

Answer: Name specific organizations or cite a specific study with findings

Replacing vague references like 'many experts' with named, credible sources makes evidence more verifiable and persuasive.

In a LEAP essay, what does 'text-based evidence' specifically mean?

Answer: Evidence drawn directly from the provided reading passage(s)

On LEAP assessments, text-based evidence refers to details, quotes, or data taken directly from the provided source texts.

Which writing technique is used when a student restates evidence in their own words rather than quoting it directly?

Answer: Paraphrasing

Paraphrasing means expressing source material in your own words while retaining the original meaning, still requiring a citation.

A student claims: 'Social media negatively affects teens.' Which of the following is the STRONGEST supporting evidence?

Answer: A 2021 Journal of Adolescence study found a 30% increase in anxiety among daily social media users aged 13–18.

The peer-reviewed journal study provides specific, measurable, and credible data directly tied to the claim about teens.

What is the main difference between a claim and a fact in argumentative writing?

Answer: A claim requires evidence and can be debated; a fact is verifiable and widely accepted as true

A claim is an arguable assertion that needs evidence to be proven, while a fact is an accepted truth that can be independently verified.

A student writes a paragraph with three quotes in a row and no commentary. What is the primary problem?

Answer: There is no analysis connecting the quotes to the claim

Evidence without analysis is called 'quote dumping'; the writer must explain how each piece of evidence supports the claim.

Which element is NOT a required component of a strong evidence-based body paragraph?

Answer: A personal anecdote from the writer's life

Strong evidence-based paragraphs require a claim, evidence, and analysis; personal anecdotes are generally not required and may weaken academic arguments.