AP English Language and Composition Flashcards: Concession, refutation, and rebuttal as strategic moves
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Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 11 cards to help you master important concepts.
What is the primary strategic purpose of making a concession?
The primary purpose is to strengthen the writer's ethos (credibility) by showing they are fair-minded and have considered opposing viewpoints, making their own argument seem more balanced.
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What is the primary strategic purpose of making a concession?
The primary purpose is to strengthen the writer's ethos (credibility) by showing they are fair-minded and have considered opposing viewpoints, making their own argument seem more balanced.
Define 'refutation'.
A refutation is the part of an argument where a writer proves an opposing argument or theory to be wrong or false. It directly counters the opposition's claims.
What is a concession in rhetoric?
A concession is a rhetorical strategy where a writer acknowledges a point made by the opposition. This demonstrates the writer is reasonable and has considered other perspectives.
Describe the common structural relationship between concession and rebuttal.
Writers often first make a concession to acknowledge an opposing point, and then immediately follow it with a rebuttal to explain why their own argument is ultimately superior or more valid.
Identify the concession in this sentence: 'While it is true that standardized tests can provide useful data, they should not be the sole factor in college admissions.'
The concession is the clause, 'While it is true that standardized tests can provide useful data...'
How do concession, refutation, and rebuttal contribute to a writer's overall line of reasoning?
These moves create a more complex and nuanced line of reasoning by showing how the writer's argument can withstand and account for opposing views, rather than simply presenting one side.
A writer arguing for stricter environmental regulations states: 'Granted, these regulations may increase costs for some businesses in the short term. Yet, the long-term economic and health benefits of clean air and water far outweigh these initial expenses.' What two moves are being made?
The writer is using a concession ('Granted, these regulations may increase costs...') followed immediately by a rebuttal ('Yet, the long-term...benefits...far outweigh these initial expenses.')
Why is it strategically weaker to ignore a major counterargument than to address it with concession and refutation?
Ignoring a counterargument can make a writer seem unprepared or dishonest, whereas addressing it shows confidence and thoroughness, strengthening the overall argument.
Identify the rebuttal in this sentence: 'Some may claim that a four-day school week harms student learning; however, studies show that it actually improves both student attendance and teacher retention.'
The rebuttal is the clause, '...however, studies show that it actually improves both student attendance and teacher retention.'
How does refuting a counterargument strengthen a writer's position?
Refuting a counterargument demonstrates that the writer has anticipated objections and has a logical response, which preemptively dismantles potential audience doubts.
What is a rebuttal?
A rebuttal is a direct response that contradicts or refutes a specific counterargument or criticism. It is a key component of building a strong, well-defended argument.