Evaluating Argument and Style

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| By Thames
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Quizzes Created: 8157 | Total Attempts: 9,566,648
| Questions: 15 | Updated: Jan 5, 2026
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1. The central claim of a speech is also known as its:

Explanation

The thesis expresses the main argument or point that guides the entire speech.

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About This Quiz
Evaluating Argument And Style - Quiz

How do argument and style influence effectiveness? In this evaluating argument style quiz, you’ll examine how claims, evidence, and stylistic choices shape persuasive writing and speech. You’ll practice assessing reasoning, tone, and organization while distinguishing strong arguments from weak ones. Step by step, you’ll develop the skills needed to evaluate... see morearguments clearly and thoughtfully.
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2. Read this line: “We cannot buy integrity, but we can build it - through honesty, effort, and time.” Which device does the speaker use?

Explanation

The repeated grammatical structure (“through honesty, effort, and time”) emphasizes the process of building integrity.

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3. Effective speakers acknowledge counterarguments to strengthen their position.

Explanation

Addressing counterarguments shows fairness and builds credibility with the audience.

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4. Match the rhetorical term to its description:

Explanation

Diction affects tone, syntax shapes rhythm, and connotation adds emotional depth to meaning.

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5. When a speaker uses misleading emotional appeals to distract from logic, it is called an ________ fallacy.

Explanation

This happens when a speaker relies too heavily on emotion rather than reasoning to persuade.

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6. Read this excerpt: “The evidence is clear: if we act now, lives will be saved. If we delay, more will be lost.” What device is used?

Explanation

Antithesis contrasts two opposing outcomes (“act now” vs. “delay”) to emphasize urgency.

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7. Which two techniques improve delivery and style?

Explanation

Vocal variation and controlled movement keep audiences engaged and reinforce meaning.

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8. An argument is persuasive only if it appeals to emotion.

Explanation

A strong argument balances emotion with evidence and logical structure.

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9. Read this line: “Justice is not a privilege—it is a promise.” What rhetorical device is used?

Explanation

The speaker contrasts “privilege” and “promise” to clarify meaning and emphasize equality.

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10. When evaluating a speech, which question best tests its logical strength?

Explanation

Logic is measured by how well claims are supported by credible reasoning or proof.

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11. The final statement that reminds the audience of the main point is the ________.

Explanation

A conclusion wraps up the speech and reinforces the key message.

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12. Overusing statistics can weaken a speech’s emotional connection.

Explanation

While data adds credibility, too many numbers can overwhelm listeners and reduce impact.

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13. Read this excerpt: “If knowledge is power, then education is freedom.” Which rhetorical device is used?

Explanation

The statement draws a logical comparison between two related ideas—knowledge and education.

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14. Which word best describes the tone of this line? “We stand together not because it is easy, but because it is right.”

Explanation

The sentence expresses determination and moral conviction, a defiant and resolute tone.

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15. What makes a speech both persuasive and memorable?

Explanation

Clear organization and dynamic delivery ensure both logical strength and audience engagement.

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The central claim of a speech is also known as its:
Read this line: “We cannot buy integrity, but we can build it -...
Effective speakers acknowledge counterarguments to strengthen their...
Match the rhetorical term to its description:
When a speaker uses misleading emotional appeals to distract from...
Read this excerpt: “The evidence is clear: if we act now, lives will...
Which two techniques improve delivery and style?
An argument is persuasive only if it appeals to emotion.
Read this line: “Justice is not a privilege—it is a promise.”...
When evaluating a speech, which question best tests its logical...
The final statement that reminds the audience of the main point is the...
Overusing statistics can weaken a speech’s emotional connection.
Read this excerpt: “If knowledge is power, then education is...
Which word best describes the tone of this line? “We stand together...
What makes a speech both persuasive and memorable?
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