Critical Reading and Argument Evaluation
Identify assumptions, evidence quality, bias and logical gaps.
Lesson focus
Identify assumptions, evidence quality, bias and logical gaps.
Core idea
Do not only understand what a text says. Ask what it assumes, what evidence supports it, what alternatives exist and whether the conclusion follows.
Examples
The sample is small, so the conclusion may not generalize.
The writer assumes price is the main cause.
Correlation alone does not establish causation.
Useful vocabulary
WordMeaning
assumptionan idea accepted without proof
biasa systematic preference that affects judgment
causationa relationship where one thing produces another
Active practice
Do this now: Take one opinion article and list its claim, evidence, assumptions and one alternative explanation.
Fast review
- Explain the rule in your own words.
- Say at least three examples without reading.
- Complete the quiz below. A passing score unlocks lesson completion.
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