What is a counterargument

Summary

In this informative video, Coach Hall addresses a common question about the AP Language exam: the necessity of including a counterargument in synthesis or argument essays. He clarifies that while it's not a requirement per the exam's current rubric, effectively addressing a counterargument can enhance the nuance and sophistication of an essay. Coach Hall advises that teachers may still instruct students to include counterarguments to develop their argumentation skills, which are valuable beyond the exam. He discusses where in an essay a counterargument might be placed for maximum effect and explains two methods for addressing it: counter claim and rebuttal, and concession and reputation. The video provides sentence frames to help students construct these elements in their writing. Coach Hall concludes with an example of a concession and reputation, emphasizing the importance of considering the counterargument even if it's not mandatory on the AP Lang exam.

Takeaways

• 📚 A counterargument is the opposing side of your argument, representing the extent of the argument's spectrum.
• ❌ Addressing a counterargument is not required by the AP Lang exam rubric but can enhance the sophistication of your argument.
• 💡 Including a counterargument can improve your essay by showing you've considered other perspectives and can strengthen your own argument.
• 👍 Some teachers may require a counterclaim and rebuttal or concession and refutation in essays to develop argument skills beneficial for college and beyond.
• 📈 Placing the counterargument in your essay is flexible; it can be in the first body paragraph, last, or within a paragraph.
• ⏳ If you address the counterargument early, ensure you have time to develop your other points to avoid an unfinished essay.
• 🔄 The most common approach is to include the counterargument in the final body paragraph, which helps manage essay pacing.
• 🔍 Students often address counterarguments within body paragraphs, sometimes just in a sentence or two, to further their argument.
• 📝 Two methods for addressing counterarguments are counter claim and rebuttal, and concession and refutation.
• 🔗 A counter claim and rebuttal are presented together, with the rebuttal disproving the counter claim to support your own argument.
• 🤔 A concession and refutation acknowledge the merit of the opposing view but then provide evidence to refute it, reinforcing your argument.
• 📈 Using these techniques can help you create a more nuanced argument, increase credibility, and effectively counter opposing viewpoints.

Q & A

What is the main topic of discussion in the video?

The main topic of discussion in the video is whether or not including a counterargument is necessary in AP Lang synthesis or argument essays.

What is a counterargument?

A counterargument is the opposing side of your argument, presenting an alternative viewpoint that stands in contrast to the one you are advocating.

Is addressing a counterargument required in the AP Lang exam?

No, addressing a counterargument is not required as part of the current synthesis or argument rubrics for the AP Lang exam.

Why might a student choose to include a counterargument in their essay even if it's not required?

A student might choose to include a counterargument to create a more nuanced argument, demonstrating consideration of other perspectives, which can increase their credibility and help to squash opposing viewpoints.

Can including a counterargument guarantee earning the sophistication point in an essay?

No, including a counterargument does not guarantee earning the sophistication point, but doing so effectively can contribute to a more sophisticated argument.

What are the two main techniques for addressing a counterargument in an essay?

The two main techniques for addressing a counterargument are a counter claim and rebuttal, and a concession and reputation.

What is the purpose of a counter claim and rebuttal in an essay?

A counter claim and rebuttal serve to present and then disprove the opposing viewpoint, thus strengthening the writer's own argument.

What is the purpose of a concession and reputation?

A concession and reputation serve to acknowledge the merit or value of the opposing argument while still providing proof that the writer's own viewpoint is correct or more valid.

Where can a counterargument be placed in an essay?

A counterargument can be placed anywhere in the essay where it best fits the writer's argument, such as in the first body paragraph, as a final body paragraph, or within a body paragraph.

Why might a teacher require students to include a counter claim and rebuttal or concession and reputation in their essays?

Teachers might require these elements to help students develop their argument skills, which are valuable not just for the AP Lang exam but also for future college papers and everyday situations.

What is the advice given for students who choose to include a counterargument in their first body paragraph?

The advice is to ensure they have enough time to develop their other points to avoid the essay seeming unfinished or contradicting the thesis.

How can students adapt the provided sentence frames to their writing style?

Students can adapt the sentence frames by interchanging words to fit their personal writing style and the specific argument they are making.