A claim of policy argues that certain conditions should exist or that policies need to be adopted to address problems. It typically provides a solution, often involves procedural recommendations, and aims to convince the audience of a problem by considering opposing views and providing specific data on the benefits. Defending a claim of policy requires making the proposed action clear, justifying it, showing the plan is workable, and considering opposition. Examples include arguments that the death penalty should be abolished, cigarette sales banned, and the driving age raised.

2. DEFINITION
 A claim of policy is an essay
consisting of an argument that
certain conditions should exist.
These essays advocate adoption of
policies or courses of action because
problems have arisen that call for a
solution.

3. CHARACTERISTICS
 Typically provide a solution
 Often procedural
 Usually involves sub-claims of fact and values
 Involves convincing the audience that a problem
exists
 considering opposing arguments
 providing specific data that shows the
benefits of the claim
 “ought”, “should” and “must” is implied in
the claim

4. PROOF REQUIRES:
 Making proposed action clear
 Needs justification
 Plan must be workable
 Consider opposition

5. STEPS IN DEFENDING A
CLAIM
 Make factual claim
 Refer to values that support the claim
 Introduce policy to show why the
solution can solve the problem

6. EXAMPLES
 The death penalty should be abolished
because it does nothing to prevent
murder.
 Legislation should be passed to stop
the sale of cigarettes.
 The age at which people can get a
driver’s license must be raised to 18.

7. Submitted by:
GRACE C. ARAJA
STEM 11 - 23