If you get confused about what the standards are asking, maybe this information will help.

Argument

• tries to convince the reader to accept a claim as truth
• focuses on evidence
• grounded in logic, facts, and data
• needs critical reading of the text and may include other information from other sources
• addresses counterclaims fairly to allow for a complete argument

Persuasion

• tries to convince the reader to accept a thesis or truth
• appeals to the credibility, character, or authority of the writer
• often grounded more in feelings than facts
• often associated with speeches and frequently requires readers and listeners to take some sort of action

An argument is a claim supported by evidence. Students are often asked to read a selection(s) and then to defend their judgments with evidence from the texts. There is a progression of opinion to argument for students from K-12th grade.