Page 169 - Keys To Community College Success

■ Does it contain headings, charts, tables, and captions; key terms and definitions;
or an introduction or summary? (For a textbook, check mid-chapter or end-of-
chapter exercises.)
■ Does it offer definitions, crucial concepts, examples, an explanation of a variety
or type, critical relationships, or comparisons?
■ Does it spark questions and reactions as you read?
■ Does it surprise or confuse you?
■ Does it mirror what your instructor emphasizes in class or in assignments?
When trying to figure out what to study and what to skim, ask yourself whether
your instructor would expect you to know the material. If you are unsure and the topic
is not on your syllabus, email your instructor and ask for clarification.

Ask Questions to Evaluate Arguments
An argument refers to a persuasive case—a set of connected ideas supported by exam-
ples—that a writer makes to prove or disprove a point. Many scholarly books and
articles, in print form or on the Internet, are organized around particular arguments.
However, other online articles, websites, and blogs offer claims instead—arguments
that appear to be factual but don’t have adequate evidence to support them. Critical
readers evaluate arguments and claims to determine whether they are accurate and
logical. When quality evidence combines with sound logic, the argument is solid. Just
because you read it online or in print does not mean it’s true.
It’s easy to accept or reject an argument according to whether it fits with your
point of view. If you risk asking questions, however, you can determine the argument’s
validity and gain the reward of greater depth of understanding, regardless of your
EVIDENCE
opinion. Evaluating an argument involves several factors: Facts, statistics, and other
■ The quality of the evidence (facts, statistics, and other materials supporting an materials that are presented
argument) in support of an argument.
■ Whether the evidence fits the idea concept
■ The logical connections Reading and Information Literacy
Approach every argument with healthy skepticism. Have an open mind to assess
whether you are convinced or still have serious questions. Key 5.11 shows you how to
do this.

KEY 5.11 Ask questions like these to evaluate arguments.

EVALUATE THE VALIDITY OF DETERMINE WHETHER THE EVIDENCE
THE EVIDENCE SUPPORTS THE CONCEPT

Is the source reliable and free of bias? Is there enough evidence?

Who wrote this and with that intent? Do examples and ideas logically connect?

What assumptions underlie this material? Is the evidence convincing?

Is this argument based on opinion? Do the examples build a strong case?

How does this evidence compare with What different and perhaps opposing arguments seem
evidence from other sources? equally valid?

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