Analyzing an Argument

Leah's Essay
1. What is the claim?
The main point is that homeschooling is not a bad thing and in some ways even better than public schooling. It is stated that homeschooling is just as effective as public school at the bottom of the third paragraph.
2. What support does the writer offer for the claim?
She discusses parent involvement, transportation, scheduling and socializing. There are statistics and examples given along with cited sources. The reasons are good and solid.
3. How evenhandedly does the writer present the issues?
There are two paragraphs that refer to the counter argument. She responds to each argument individually. Most of the response his her opinion but does include some sources. For the most part the other argument is respected. It is mainly generalizations, but some of the reasons have more specific examples.
4. What authorities or sources of outside information does the writer use?
Throughout the essay there are 9 sources referred to. They are used for statistics and supporting information. Most of them appear to be credible, a couple of them have names that make me question the credibility. I belive the sources seem current.
5. How does the writer address the reader?
There is good background information about education and homeschooling. There are knowledgeable pieces throughout. The essay is mostly written through the "I" stand point but parents of students are directly addressed. The author shows her belief being homeschooling is better.