Analysing arguments
Analyse arguments: identify the conclusion, premises and assumptions, and evaluate whether the reasoning actually supports the claim.
In this lesson you will
- Identify conclusions, premises and assumptions
- Evaluate the strength of reasoning
- Explain weaknesses clearly
Learn
An argument has a conclusion (what the writer wants you to accept) and premises (reasons). Indicators: conclusion — therefore, so, thus, consequently, this shows; premises — because, since, given that, as.
Assumptions are unstated premises the argument depends on: We should ban cars from the centre because it will reduce pollution assumes cars are a significant source of pollution there.
Evaluate: Are the premises true? Is the evidence sufficient and relevant? Does the conclusion follow, or is there a gap? Are there alternative explanations?
Explaining a weakness: The argument assumes that… However, … ; The evidence is limited to… so it cannot be generalised ; An alternative explanation is that…
Examples
- Premise: Students who eat breakfast get better grades. Conclusion: Therefore, breakfast improves grades.
- Weakness: correlation isn’t causation — families that provide breakfast may also support study in other ways.
- Assumption: that grades measure learning.
Vocabulary
premise
a reason supporting a conclusion
assumption
an unstated belief taken as true
valid
logically correct
generalise
apply more widely
alternative explanation
another possible reason
In real life
Analyse this argument.
Our town should build a new stadium. Towns with large stadiums attract more tourists; for example, visitor numbers in nearby Linford doubled after its stadium opened. Tourists spend money in local shops and hotels. Therefore, a stadium would make our town wealthier. Furthermore, everyone I have spoken to supports the idea, so there is clearly public demand. The council should approve the project without delay.
Practice
What is the main conclusion?
Speaking
Explain three weaknesses in the stadium argument and suggest what evidence would make it stronger.
Writing
Write a critical response (150–180 words) to the stadium argument, identifying the conclusion, two assumptions and two weaknesses.
Lesson quiz
“Since” usually introduces…
Review
Key points
- Conclusion + premises + assumptions.
- Indicator words.
- Evaluate truth, sufficiency, relevance.
- Explain weaknesses clearly.
What you learned
- ✓ I can analyse arguments.
- ✓ I find hidden assumptions.
- ✓ I explain weaknesses.