PREVIOUSLY ON READING

AND WRITING SKILLS…

In the previous lessons, we discussed the way texts can be interconnected and
interrelated, thus creating a network of different information. As such, we are able
to expand the scope of our text to include data sourced from other materials. We
also talked about critical reading as reasoning, where we learned that when
reading textual materials, it is important to be keen about the different information
that we read so that we may be able to use these information to support our future
statements, thus allowing us to reason and argue better through the incorporation
of these previously-read materials.
 ASSERTION &
COUNTERCLAIMS
Reading and Writing Skills (COR7)
OBJECTIVES
• Determine textual evidence to
validate assertions and
counterclaims made about a
text read.
 IN THIS LESSON:

1. ASSERTIONS
2. COUNTERCLAIMS
 An Assertion is a
statement or
declaration made
regarding an idea, a
What is an
Assertion?
topic, or an issue. It
expresses a person’s
opinions, feelings, or
beliefs.
Types of
Assertion
1. BASIC ASSERTION
This is a simple and direct expression of one’s opinions,
feelings, or beliefs.

Example:
When being interrupted, "Excuse me, I'd like to finish what
I'm saying."
2. EMPHATIC ASSERTION
This shows sympathy to another person. It is an
acknowledgment of the other person’s feelings or situation
and at the same time a show of support to the rights of the
person.

Example:
"I know you are feeling angry and frustrated while you wait
for a response. But, the best I can do is give you a ballpark
estimate of how long It will take."
3. POSITIVE ASSERTION
This expresses positive feelings or emotions. To make this
assertion, one gives a reason or an explanation for a good
feeling or opinion.

Example:
“I am honored to share this meal with one of the movers and
shakers of our company. I have learned so much in the past
hour.”
4. ESCALATING ASSERTION
This is a firm but respectful statement made by a person who is expecting
another person’s response to his or her earlier assertion. However, the other
person has not given any response.

Example:
Earlier assertion: Your supervisor understands that you are going through
a difficult time right now, and it is why your performance has been subpar
lately. We are willing to extend your stay in this company.
Escalating assertions: Although we extended your stay in this company, it
does not mean that you are exempted from performing your most important
responsibilities. Since we have observed that you are not faring well, we
need to consider other options.
5. CONFRONTIVE ASSERTION
This states three closely related actions: an action that was
supposed to be done, the actual action, and the action that
the speaker wants done.

Example:
“Nathan promised to visit his best friend David when he
visits the Philippines. His recent visit, however, was filled with
family gatherings that he failed to see David. Nathan should
find time on his next visit to meet with his best friend.”
6. I-LANGUAGE ASSERTION
It expresses negative feelings by describing the person’s
feelings toward a certain negative behavior and states what
he or she desires to happen.

Example:
If your grades still do not improve this time, I will be
ashamed to face your adviser. I will also not allow you to
play with your gadgets excessively, so I will have to
confiscate them after 8:00 p.m. every day.
What is a
Counterclaim?
A Counterclaim is a
statement that disagrees
with one’s claim and
present a
counterargument.
PURPOSES OF
COUNTERCLAIMS
To refute incorrect information -
demonstrating that your
opponent’s reasoning is wrong
because it is based on incorrect or
misleading information.
PURPOSES OF
COUNTERCLAIMS
To refute irrelevant information -
showing that your opponent’s
viewpoint is inappropriate and
unrelated because it is not relevant
to the key point.
PURPOSES OF
COUNTERCLAIMS
To refute insufficient information -
showing that your opponent’s reasoning is
weak because it is based on insufficient
information or ignores significant
information. It can partially agree with the
opponent’s point of view but as a whole, it
can be proven weak.
 FORMULATING
A COUNTERCLAIM
Counterclaims are formulated
by using words denoting
negation (e.g., not, no, never)
or using opposing words (e.g.,
‘unjust’ is the opposite of ‘just’).
EXAMPLES:
#1
Claim: Philippines is a first world country. (Incorrect)
Counterclaim: Philippines is not a first world country. It is a third world country.

#2
Claim: Philippines is progressive, and Japan is the capital of Tokyo. (Irrelevant)
Counterclaim: Philippines is a developing country. Manila is its capital city.

#3
Claim: Philippines is a country because it is a place. (Insufficient)
Counterclaim: Philippines is a country--an archipelago which consists of more
than 7,000 islands.
 END OF
PRESENTATION