What is an example of a 'claim' in a simple argument?

A claim in a simple argument is a statement that asserts a position or belief that can be supported or challenged through reasoning and evidence. The correct answer, "School should start later in the morning," serves as a claim because it expresses a specific viewpoint regarding a policy change. This statement can be debated, as one could present arguments for or against the idea, drawing on various evidence, such as studies on sleep patterns or academic performance.

On the other hand, the other options present statements that, although they may relate to debates, do not function as direct claims. For instance, "Students should participate in debates" can be seen more as a recommendation than a standalone assertion, while "Debating helps improve communication skills" is a supporting statement that would require evidence to substantiate it but isn’t a claim in itself. Similarly, "Evidence is key in supporting arguments" is an assertion about the nature of argumentation rather than a specific claim about a situation or belief. The distinguishing characteristic of a claim is that it invites discussion and debate over its validity, which is exemplified most clearly by the assertion about school start times.