Overview
This lecture explains how to formulate claims of fact, value, and policy, which are essential components of writing an argumentative essay.
Introduction to Claims
- A claim is a clear statement of a person's idea, opinion, or proposal.
- In argumentative essays, claims state the writer's position on an issue.
- Claims are used to persuade readers to accept a particular viewpoint.
Types of Claims
Claims of Fact
- Claims of fact are statements that can be proven or disproven with factual evidence.
- These claims are debatable but can be supported or challenged with data.
- Example: The 2020 national budget of 4.1 trillion pesos can help boost the economy through infrastructural projects.
Claims of Value
- Claims of value assert whether something is good or bad or if one thing is better than another.
- These claims are debatable but focus on the worth or benefits of a subject.
- Example: Taking vitamins is better than eating fruits and vegetables in terms of boosting the immune system.
Claims of Policy
- Claims of policy advocate that a particular action should or should not be taken to address an issue.
- These claims provide suggestions or recommendations for resolving a problem.
- Example: The city's health department must learn from other cities to address COVID-19 concerns.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Claim — a statement expressing a position, idea, or proposal intended to persuade others.
- Claim of Fact — a claim that can be proven or disproven by factual evidence.
- Claim of Value — a claim that judges the merit or worth of something as good or bad, better or worse.
- Claim of Policy — a claim recommending a specific action or change to address an issue.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice identifying and formulating claims of fact, value, and policy.
- Prepare to use these types of claims when writing your own argumentative essay.