Question

Make a list of what you will say to build on your claim. Include two reasons, a way to address a counterclaim, and a conclusion.

Answer 1

Here is a simple list you can use to build on any claim. First section is a generic template (with sentence stems you can fill in). After that I include a short concrete example so you can see how it looks in practice.

Generic list (fill in the brackets):
1. State the claim clearly.
- "My claim is that [state claim]."
2. Reason 1 with evidence and explanation.
- "First, [reason 1]. For example, [specific evidence or fact]. This matters because [explain how the evidence supports the claim]."
3. Reason 2 with evidence and explanation.
- "Second, [reason 2]. For example, [specific evidence or fact]. This supports the claim because [explain connection]."
4. Address a counterclaim (acknowledge and rebut).
- "Some may argue that [state counterclaim]. It is true that [acknowledge any valid point], but [explain why the counterclaim does not outweigh your reasons — provide evidence, limitations of the counterclaim, or an alternative explanation]."
5. Conclusion: restate claim and summarize reasons; call to action or closing thought.
- "In conclusion, [restate claim]. Because [briefly summarize reason 1] and [briefly summarize reason 2], [final sentence — call to action or implication]."

Concrete example (claim: city should increase public bike lanes):
1. "My claim is that the city should invest more in protected bike lanes."
2. "First, protected bike lanes reduce traffic injuries. For example, studies show cities that add protected lanes see significant drops in cyclist and pedestrian crashes. This matters because safer streets protect residents and lower healthcare costs."
3. "Second, bike lanes increase sustainable transportation and reduce congestion. For example, on routes with new bike lanes, more people commute by bike, which decreases car trips and local traffic. This supports the claim because it improves air quality and commuting time for everyone."
4. "Some may argue that bike lanes take away car parking and slow traffic. It is true that reallocating street space affects parking, but careful planning can preserve necessary parking and the long-term benefits—fewer accidents, lower congestion, and health gains—outweigh short-term parking losses. Additionally, encouraging cycling reduces demand for parking overall."
5. "In conclusion, the city should invest in protected bike lanes. Because they make streets safer and encourage sustainable transportation that reduces congestion and pollution, the city will see lasting public-health and mobility benefits. I urge the council to prioritize funding and pilot projects this year."

If you want, tell me your specific claim and I will fill this template in for you.