GED Reasoning Through Language ArtsExtended Response (Essay)Easy
A student is writing an argumentative essay about the impact of social media on youth mental health. They have identified the following claim: 'Excessive social media use contributes to increased anxiety and depression in adolescents.' To develop this claim effectively, which type of evidence would be most persuasive?
- AA general statement that 'many experts agree' social media is harmful.
- BA description of popular social media platforms and their features.
- CA personal anecdote from a teenager about feeling sad after using social media.
- DA statistic showing a direct correlation between hours spent on social media and reported rates of anxiety.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. A statistic showing a direct correlation between hours spent on social media and reported rates of anxiety.
A specific statistic demonstrating a direct correlation provides strong, objective, and quantifiable evidence to support the claim, making it highly persuasive in an argumentative essay.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A vague reference to 'many experts' lacks specificity and credibility compared to actual data.
- B. Describing platforms does not provide evidence for their impact on mental health; it's merely background information.
- C. Personal anecdotes, while sometimes illustrative, are not as persuasive as empirical evidence in an argumentative context.
Types of Evidence
Different categories of information used to support claims in an argument, each with varying degrees of persuasiveness.
- Empirical evidence (statistics, facts) is often highly persuasive.
- Expert testimony provides credibility from authoritative figures.
- Examples and anecdotes can illustrate points but are less generalized.
Memory trick: Specific Stats Solidify Strong Statements.