The statement “Drivers must avoid texting” is an example of
A. a rebuttal
B. Evidence
C.Detail
D. a claim
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is: D. a claim.
Explanation:
A claim is a statement that presents the author’s position, belief, or argument on a particular topic. In this case, the statement “Drivers must avoid texting” expresses a position or viewpoint: that texting while driving should be avoided. It is the central idea or assertion that the author would support with evidence, details, and reasoning.
Breaking Down the Options:
- A. Rebuttal: A rebuttal is a counterargument or response to an opposing viewpoint. For example, if someone argued that texting while driving isn’t dangerous, a rebuttal might include statistics or examples to refute this claim. Since the given statement doesn’t counter another argument, it isn’t a rebuttal.
- B. Evidence: Evidence includes facts, statistics, examples, or expert opinions used to support a claim. For instance, data showing the number of accidents caused by texting while driving would serve as evidence. The statement itself does not provide supporting data or proof, so it isn’t evidence.
- C. Detail: Details are specific pieces of information that provide depth or clarity to a claim or argument. For example, describing how texting distracts a driver from the road would be a detail. However, the statement doesn’t offer additional specifics—it is a standalone assertion.
- D. Claim: A claim is the main idea or argument that the writer is trying to prove or persuade others to accept. “Drivers must avoid texting” is clearly an argument advocating for a specific behavior. It serves as the foundation for further discussion, where evidence and details would be provided to support it.
In summary, this statement asserts a viewpoint without yet providing supporting evidence or elaboration, which defines it as a claim. Understanding this distinction is crucial for analyzing arguments effectively.