Counterclaim:
Identify the opposing viewpoints to your claims.
Explain why these viewpoints are incorrect, incomplete, or illogical.
Give examples and provide evidence to show why the argument does not work. This can include a quote, cited information, and an explanation.
Refute it! Give reasons or explain why your viewpoint is still correct. Point out the obvious flaw in the counterclaim. Provide information that specifically contradicts their side of the argument.
Sentence Frames:
To start a counterclaim, here are a few examples of sentence starters.
Yet some readers may challenge the view that _________.
After all, many believe _________.
Others, however, may conclude _________.
Alternatively, this issue could be viewed _________.
For Example:
The thesis statement for an essay states:
“The use of modern technology in the classroom has had a positive impact on students because it helps to teach real-world skills and practical applications of tools.”
A counterargument will disagree with my claim that technology is helpful in the classroom. The counterargument might state:
“The use of technology has no place in the classroom because it is too distracting for students to effectively learn new material.”
A Rebuttal:
Defend your original position by refuting the counterargument. This is done by directly explaining why the opposing viewpoint is still incorrect.
Sentence Frames:
Begin your rebuttal with one of the following sentence starters.
Although…
Even though …
While it may be true that …
In spite of the fact that …
While some may argue that…but …
It may be understandable that …however, …
Example:
“While it may be true that some technology can be a distraction to students, the benefits of learning to use valuable technology from the safety of a classroom outweigh the disadvantages.”
Then, explain why your original idea/claim is still correct.