Well, let's break this down...
The first answer says that an argument depends on connotative words to form a claim. The next says that an argument relies on facts, logic, reason, and evidence. And the next says that an argument must have a claim and a counterclaim. And lastly, answer D says that an argument supports a claim and weakens a counterclaim.
For the first option, it says that an argument depends on connotative words. Connotative--in this sense--loosely means words that carry on literal meanings.
For option B: If we were to think of a debate team--which one thing that they do is argue--notice how they base their arguments on substantiated facts. Not opinions. Not emotions. They rely on research, science, logic and even common sense to form their opinions. It is imperative that the argument at hand is held on by substantiated facts, not opinions, as well as research and science. So, option B is definitely not the answer to this question.
For option C, it says that an argument must have a claim and a counterclaim. Without the claim or counterclaim for the argument, there would really be no argument. So, option C is not the answer.
And lastly, for option D, it says that an argument supports a claim and weakens a counterclaim. This is another thing that is imperative when supporting and argument. You will need to have something that supports a claim and weakens a counterclaim. This will even help strengthen the argument and its basis.
To form an argument, options B, C and D are needed. Connotative words are of no use to support and create an argument. The answer to your question would be option A since an argument does not rely upon connotative words to form a claim. So, again, letter A would be the answer to your question.