Question

Read the following counterclaim.

Counterclaim: "Reading fictional works has no educational value."

What source of evidence could most likely be used to refute this counterclaim?

A.
a news article discussing popular fictional genres and identifying which demographic group they most appeal to
B.
an academic journal about the history of storytelling and the importance it holds in many cultures
C.
a blog post arguing that students who read mostly nonfiction have better grades than students who read fiction
D.
a scientific study showing that reading fiction improves empathy, critical thinking, and vocabulary skills

Answer 1

D. A scientific study showing that reading fiction improves empathy, critical thinking, and vocabulary skills — because it provides empirical evidence that fiction has measurable educational benefits.