What is a Strong Claim? Definition and Examples for High School

📝 Quick Study Guide: Crafting Strong Claims

• 🎯 A strong claim is the main argument or thesis statement of an essay, research paper, or debate. It's the central point you intend to prove to your audience.
• 💪 It must be arguable, meaning a reasonable person could disagree with it. If it's a universally accepted fact, it's not a claim.
• 🔍 A strong claim is specific and focused, avoiding vague language or overly broad statements. It clearly outlines your precise position.
• 🗣️ It takes a clear stance on a topic, rather than simply stating a personal preference or making an observation that doesn't invite debate.
• 📊 It should be something that can be supported with evidence, logical reasoning, and thorough analysis throughout your writing.
• 🧭 A well-crafted claim serves as a roadmap for your entire argument, guiding both your writing process and your reader's understanding.
• 🚫 Avoid: Claims that are common knowledge, simple statements of fact, personal opinions without potential for support, or questions.
• ✍️ Example of a Strong Claim: "Implementing a four-day school week would significantly improve student attendance and reduce teacher burnout due to increased morale." (This is arguable, specific, and can be supported with evidence.)

🧠 Practice Quiz: Understanding Strong Claims

Choose the best answer for each question.

1. Which of the following is the most important characteristic of a strong claim?

   A. It is a well-known fact.

   B. It is easily disproven.

   C. It is arguable and debatable.

   D. It is a personal opinion.

2. Which statement below is the strongest claim for a high school essay?

   A. Many students like pizza.

   B. The school cafeteria should offer more vegetarian options to promote healthier eating habits among students.

   C. Fast food is unhealthy.

   D. What are the benefits of eating vegetables?

3. A strong claim should be 'specific and focused.' What does this mean?

   A. It should be very short.

   B. It should cover a wide range of topics.

   C. It should clearly state a precise position on a narrow topic.

   D. It should only discuss personal feelings.

4. Why is a simple statement of fact generally considered a weak claim?

   A. Facts are difficult to prove.

   B. Facts don't require evidence.

   C. There's nothing to argue or prove about a fact.

   D. Facts are too specific.

5. Which of these statements is LEAST likely to be a strong claim?

   A. Online learning is less effective than traditional classroom instruction for high school students.

   B. All students should learn a second language.

   C. The Earth is round.

   D. Standardized testing negatively impacts student creativity.

6. What role does evidence play in supporting a strong claim?

   A. Evidence is only used to make the essay longer.

   B. Evidence helps to make the claim more debatable.

   C. Evidence provides the facts and data needed to prove the claim's validity.

   D. Evidence is not necessary if the claim is obvious.

7. Which of the following would NOT be a good starting point for developing a strong claim?

   A. Identifying a controversial issue within your community.

   B. Brainstorming different perspectives on a topic.

   C. Stating a universally accepted truth.

   D. Considering what you want to convince your audience of.