Argumentative Writing — Answer Key
Part A: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. A fact is a piece of information that can be verified as true or false.
Unlike an opinion, a fact can be checked and proven true or false through observation, measurement, or research. Facts give arguments a solid foundation.
2. Numbers and percentages used to support a claim are called statistics.
Statistics are numerical data like percentages, averages, or counts. They strengthen an argument by offering measurable proof instead of vague claims.
3. An expert quote uses the words of a knowledgeable person to add credibility to an argument.
Quoting an expert, like a doctor or scientist, shows the reader that a trained professional agrees with the claim, which makes the argument more believable.
4. Evidence from a reliable source, such as a university study, is more trustworthy than a random blog post.
Reliable sources like university studies go through careful review before publishing. A random blog post may contain errors or bias, so it carries less weight in an argument.
5. A personal anecdote can add interest to an argument but should be paired with facts for stronger proof.
A personal anecdote is a short story from real experience. It makes the argument relatable, but on its own it only proves one case, so pairing it with facts makes the point stronger.
6. When a writer cites where their evidence comes from, they are giving a source.
Citing a source tells readers exactly where the evidence came from, so they can check it themselves. This builds trust and shows the writer did real research.
7. The statement '75% of students prefer recess over free time indoors' is an example of a statistic.
The number 75% is a specific percentage drawn from data, which makes it a statistic. Statistics give readers a clear, measurable picture of how strong the evidence is.
8. Strong arguments use multiple types of evidence rather than relying on just one kind.
Using multiple types of evidence, such as a statistic plus an expert quote, covers different angles and leaves fewer gaps for a reader to challenge.
9. Evidence that is inaccurate or outdated weakens an argument because readers may not trust it.
If a reader discovers that the evidence is inaccurate or outdated, they will doubt the entire argument. Always verify facts before including them.
Part B: Matching
Match each item on the left to the correct answer on the right.
1. Match each item to its correct answer.
"Dr. Lee, a child psychologist, says reading aloud builds vocabulary."
→ Expert quote — uses a specialist's authority
Statistic — uses a specific number to prove a point
"The library receives over 500 visitors each week."
→ Statistic — uses a specific number to prove a point
Personal anecdote — shares a firsthand experience
"Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius at sea level."
→ Scientific fact — states a verifiable truth
Expert quote — uses a specialist's authority
"When I volunteered at the shelter, I saw how donations helped."
→ Personal anecdote — shares a firsthand experience
Scientific fact — states a verifiable truth
Correct matches: "Dr. Lee, a child psychologist, says reading aloud builds vocabulary." → Expert quote — uses a specialist's authority; "The library receives over 500 visitors each week." → Statistic — uses a specific number to prove a point; "Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius at sea level." → Scientific fact — states a verifiable truth; "When I volunteered at the shelter, I saw how donations helped." → Personal anecdote — shares a firsthand experience.