Judging Which Reason Is Strongest

Evaluate reasons by how relevant and well-supported they are.

Not all reasons are equally convincing. A strong reason is relevant, meaning it connects directly to the claim, and it's backed by solid evidence. A weak reason might be off topic, based only on feelings, or unsupported. Claim: 'Our class should get a class pet fish. ' Reason A: 'Caring for a fish teaches responsibility, since students would take turns feeding it and cleaning the tank.

' Reason B: 'Fish are pretty. ' Reason C: 'My cousin's class has a hamster. ' Reason A is strongest: it's relevant and explains how. Reason B is a feeling and could be said about almost anything. Reason C is barely relevant, since a hamster isn't a fish, and another class's choice doesn't prove anything about ours. When evaluating, ask: 'Does this reason connect to the claim? Is it supported? '

• 1Strong reasons are relevant and supported.
• 2Feelings alone make weak reasons.
• 3Ask: does it connect, and is it supported?