Which sentence best demonstrates a counterclaim in persuasive writing?

Which sentence best demonstrates a counterclaim in persuasive writing?

• A. The data proves X beyond doubt.
• B. Some readers may argue that X, but evidence shows Y.
• C. The author believes X.
• D. The description supports Y.

Answer: (B)

In persuasive writing, a counterclaim is when the writer acknowledges an opposing viewpoint and then refutes it with evidence or reasoning. The sentence that says some readers may argue that X, but evidence shows Y does exactly that: it presents an opposing view and then counters it with evidence. The presence of the opposing claim introduced by “some readers may argue” and the follow-up refutation with “but evidence shows” is what marks it as a counterclaim. The other options focus on supporting the writer’s own claim, stating a belief, or giving evidence without addressing an opposing view, so they don’t demonstrate a counterclaim.

In persuasive writing, a counterclaim is when the writer acknowledges an opposing viewpoint and then refutes it with evidence or reasoning. The sentence that says some readers may argue that X, but evidence shows Y does exactly that: it presents an opposing view and then counters it with evidence. The presence of the opposing claim introduced by “some readers may argue” and the follow-up refutation with “but evidence shows” is what marks it as a counterclaim. The other options focus on supporting the writer’s own claim, stating a belief, or giving evidence without addressing an opposing view, so they don’t demonstrate a counterclaim.