How is a rebuttal used in an argumentative text?
A. It provides evidence that disproves the counterargument.
B. It shares a writer’s viewpoint and position about a topic.
C. It offers an acknowledgement that the counterargument is valid.
D. It proves that the writer’s position is the more convincing claim.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is: A. It provides evidence that disproves the counterargument.
Explanation:
In an argumentative text, a rebuttal plays a critical role in strengthening the writer’s overall argument by directly addressing opposing viewpoints, known as counterarguments. When a writer presents a counterargument, they acknowledge that there is a differing opinion or evidence that challenges their own position. The rebuttal is the writer’s response to this challenge.
Specifically, a rebuttal provides evidence or reasoning to disprove or weaken the counterargument. This is important because it shows the writer has thoughtfully considered other perspectives but still maintains that their original position is stronger or more valid. By effectively rebutting counterarguments, the writer demonstrates critical thinking and persuades the reader that their viewpoint is the most reasonable and well-supported.
Let’s briefly look at why the other options are not correct:
- B. It shares a writer’s viewpoint and position about a topic.
This describes the thesis or main claim, not the rebuttal. The rebuttal comes after the counterargument and is used specifically to refute it. - C. It offers an acknowledgement that the counterargument is valid.
While acknowledging a counterargument is a strategy used to appear fair and balanced, the rebuttal itself does not just acknowledge the counterargument—it challenges it. - D. It proves that the writer’s position is the more convincing claim.
While the rebuttal contributes to proving the writer’s position is stronger, the main function of the rebuttal is specifically to address and disprove the opposing claim, not to prove the overall argument alone.
In summary, a rebuttal is a direct response that counters or refutes opposing arguments by providing evidence or logical reasoning, making Option A the best answer. This technique enhances the persuasiveness of an argumentative text by showing why the counterargument is flawed or less convincing.