Evaluating Reasoning & Evidence — Drills · Grade 11 English
Chapter: Public Argument, Rhetoric & Competing AccountsWhat these drills covers
By the end of Evaluating Reasoning & Evidence you should be able to:
- I can assess whether an argument's evidence is relevant and sufficient to support its claim.
- I can identify common logical fallacies and explain why they weaken an argument's reasoning.
2 questions, written answer, each with a worked explanation.
Vocabulary used: premise, relevance, sufficiency, logical fallacy, straw man.
Problem 1
Answer and explanation
Separate a claim, reasons, evidence, and the assumption connecting them. A count can support a narrow observation without establishing a broad conclusion. Show an actual application before considering the method recalled.
Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.
Response criteria
- Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
- Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
- Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.
Problem 2
Answer and explanation
A preference does not test the evidence. Evaluate who was surveyed, how the count was collected, and whether the conclusion exceeds the finding.
Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.
Response criteria
- Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
- Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
- Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.