Abstract

Empirical evidence on argumentation development shows contradictory results. Whilst some studies suggest that from an early age children are able to understand and elaborate all the components of an argument, other studies show that counter-argumentation does not develop until late adolescence. This paper is aimed at showing the results of a study whose goal was to measure grade 5 (age 10 years) children's achievement in written argumentation. 175 children (92 girls) from 18 public schools of Santiago de Chile participated in the study. Results show that most students at this age are able to elaborate a simple argument and understand objections. Moreover, some children are also able to elaborate objections and simple counter-arguments. These results suggest that, although the general tendency of children at this age is justification, they are not incapable of counter-arguing. On the contrary, they are able to learn how to do so.