Engish STAAR ( State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) Practice Test

Which of the following is a technique involving the use of numbers, tables, or graphs to support an argument?

1. Aside

2. Emotional appeal

3. Facts and figures

4. Soliloquy

The correct answer is: Facts and figures

The correct answer, which involves utilizing numbers, tables, or graphs to support an argument, is rooted in the presentation of objective data to strengthen a claim. This technique, known as "facts and figures," allows the speaker or writer to provide concrete evidence that can validate their position or viewpoint. By incorporating statistical information, documented data, or visual aids, it becomes easier for the audience to understand and trust the argument being made. Using facts and figures is powerful because it moves beyond subjective claims and taps into empirical evidence, making an argument more persuasive and credible. It relies on logical reasoning and tangible evidence, which can significantly enhance the effectiveness of communication in both written and oral presentations. Other options, while valid in their own right, do not serve the same purpose of using numerical or visual data to bolster an argument. Emotional appeal focuses on eliciting feelings rather than presenting data. An aside is a brief remark that is not intended for the entire audience, which doesn't contribute to the argument's support. A soliloquy is a dramatic device where a character speaks their thoughts aloud, typically in literature, and does not involve the presentation of data for argumentation.