In the Toulmin model, what is the role of evidence?

• A. To state the claim.
• B. To derive the conclusion.
• C. To support the claim.
• D. To present background.

Answer: (C)

Evidence provides the grounds for the claim. It is the data, facts, or observations you present to justify why the claim is true. In the Toulmin model, this evidence is connected to the claim through a warrant, which explains why the data counts as support. Without solid evidence, a claim remains just an assertion; with relevant, sufficient evidence, the warrant can justify the conclusion and make the argument persuasive. For example, if the claim is that a policy will reduce traffic, the evidence might be traffic statistics and user surveys; this evidence supports the claim by showing a problem and public support, and the warrant would explain why those data indicate that expanding policy will alleviate congestion.