Counterclaims English 1 2 What is a counterclaim

Counterclaims English 1, 2

What is a counterclaim? Exactly what it sounds like: a claim that is opposed to your position.

What is the purpose of a counterclaim? A strategic and thoughtful counterclaim: ● Shows that you have considered all aspects of the issue ● Strengthens your own claim

How to write a counterclaim 1. Consider the strongest evidence against your claim and why it could be reasonable. 2. Find the weaknesses in that claim. 3. Explain why your claim is the more credible argument.

Example Claim: Cats are better pets than dogs because cats are low maintenance, independent, and are excellent cuddle partners.

Step 1 What could be a strong piece of evidence to counter this claim? Ex. Dogs are also nice to cuddle with.

Step 2 How could you counter that evidence? “While some could argue that dogs are also soft and cuddly, many dogs are also outside pets which could make them dirty and smelly, preventing their owners from wanting to cuddle with their pups. ”

Step 3 Bring it back to your argument! “However, cats clean themselves regularly and are seldom outside pets which helps preserve their softness, making them the ultimate cuddly pet. “

What it looks like all together Claim: While both cats and dogs are popular human companions, cats are the superior pet because they are low-maintenance, independent, and are excellent cuddle partners. . Counterclaim : While some could argue that dogs are also soft and cuddly, many dogs are also outside pets which could make them dirty and smelly, and could prevent their owners cuddling with their pups. However, cats clean themselves regularly and are seldom outside pets which helps preserve their softness, making them the ultimate cuddly pet.

Protips ● Don’t: Use all the evidence against your claim ○ Only focus on the strongest evidence against your argument ● Don’t spend too much of your writing on the counterclaim ○ Make sure your claim is still the focus