Arguments and Evidence
Focus: Reasons, examples and evidence
Differentiate a thesis from the reasons and examples that support it.
Study each word, read the Spanish support and school example, then press the speaker to hear the English pronunciation. In pairs, choose four words and create four new school sentences.
How evidence strengthens an argument
A thesis is not strong by itself. It needs an ARGUMENT (a reason) and EVIDENCE or an EXAMPLE that makes the reason concrete. A useful test is: Does this example really help prove my reason?
Thesis: Schools should challenge discrimination.
Argument: Discrimination can reduce participation.
Example: A student may avoid a club because of negative stereotypes.
Before listening: Read the question and predict three words you may hear.
Listening question: Which reason and example support the thesis?
Each dialogue is separated in its own Bootstrap card. Listen first, perform it with your group, then change one idea so the conversation becomes connected to your own school experience.
Team task
- Student A explains the main concept in simple English.
- Student B finds one example, connector or piece of evidence.
- Student C asks a follow-up question and reports the group answer.
- Rotate roles. Every student must speak before one student speaks twice.
Build, Swap & Improve
Create three statements on the computer: one main position, one supporting reason/evidence and one counterargument or limitation. Swap with another pair/trio. The new group identifies each part and improves one sentence.