In Class Lab Analyzing an Argument

1. Claim
a.) Many Americans live in poverty but this can be prevented if others were to help

b.) Clearly stated thesis - "There are numerous amounts of reasons as to why people plummet into poverty; but there are also plenty of things America can do to help"

2. Support the writer offers for the claim

a. reasons for poverty include 2/3's experience substance and drug abuse but no professional help to stop. mental illness, financial problems, unemployment. The Reagan foundation cut funding for affordable homes.

b. Facts, statistics, and examples, and reports back up claims

c. i believe all these reasons are valid. mainly people not being able to afford homes and proper rehabilitation care.

3. How evenhandedly does the writer present the issues?
 Although the essay provides good backup for the claims made and calls to action, there is not an obvious counterargument seen.

b. there is not a counterargument however there is an acknowledgement to a problem and a response to it as well

d. the arguments are made pretty validly but more elaboration could be included.

4. What authorities or sources of outside information does the writer use?
the writer uses a popular celebrity to show that the amount of money made by entertainment should be divided into helping society and those who live in poverty this claim is supported by a website that claims a simple way to end homelessness.

b. The claims make it pretty appealing, but a few examples of the solution in progress would help to support the position.

c. all of the sources used were published in the last 6 years.

5. How does the writer address you as the reader?
The writer begins the essay with good background information for the audience by explaining the number of Americans living in poverty and some of the reasons why.

b. The writer includes the audience by using words like "we" "our" and even more interconnected words like "brothers and sisters".

c. I believe that the writer and i share the same idea that we cant help other people if we cannot help ourselves first.