Determine which of the statements are claims from the passage and which are counterclaims.
Claims
Cell phones prevent walkers or runners from hearing danger approaching.
Cell phones can even improve retention with music as a memory aid.
Cell phones can be useful in classes that require significant amounts of silent work: art or creative writing classes, for example.
Counter-claims
Cell phones are a constant distraction in the academic classroom.
Cell phones create anti-social behavior preventing the development of the art of conversation.
Claims:
1. Cell phones prevent walkers or runners from hearing danger approaching.
2. Cell phones can even improve retention with music as a memory aid.
3. Cell phones can be useful in classes that require significant amounts of silent work: art or creative writing classes, for example.
Counter-claims:
1. Cell phones are a constant distraction in the academic classroom.
2. Cell phones create anti-social behavior preventing the development of the art of conversation.
Explanation: Claims are statements that present a position or argument supporting a specific viewpoint. In this case, the first three statements advocate for the benefits of cell phones. Counter-claims, on the other hand, present opposing viewpoints that challenge those benefits, highlighting distractions and social issues caused by cell phones.