Flashcard 2 - ELAR: Reading Flashcard Set for the TSIA2

an argument made in opposition to a claim presented in persuasive writing

Counterarguments are important because acknowledging that others may not agree with you actually helps to build your credibility (ethos). When you are writing a persuasive essay, you want to present your argument or claim, then acknowledge what the other side would say (the counterargument), and then make sure that you include a rebuttal—an explanation of how or why that counterargument is invalid or faulty. When you are reading the persuasive writing of another author, be critical of the counterarguments presented. Are they valid? Does the author offer an effective rebuttal of that counterargument and convince you that it’s not a valid perspective?