Watch the video below to see how to learn how and why counter-claims work.
Counterpunch
Narrator:
Why in the world would you ever want to argue against your own claim in a persuasive essay? Wouldn’t that just make your whole point weaker?
In fact, using a counterclaim shows the world just how tough your argument really is, by proving the other side wrong.
It’s like a boxer taking his opponent’s best punch right on the chin, and saying, “Is that all you’ve got?”
For example, your claim might be that using social networking sites is good for teens. If you never mention any of the arguments against this claim, it looks like you’re too afraid to step into the ring and face them.
But if you bring up what those who disagree with you would say and prove them wrong, your case starts to look like a champion in his prime. You might introduce the counterclaim that social networking leads to lower grades, and then hit back with the facts: the National School Board Association reports that a majority of teens actually use social networking to discuss educational topics and class assignments. Knock out!
Question
Why should you address counterclaims in a written or spoken argument?
