Answer:
Claims.
Step-by-step explanation:
An argumentative essay (writing) can be defined as an expression of a writer's position (stance) on a subject matter or topic.
A claim can be defined as a statement that is used by a writer to prove, substantiate or support an argument.
Thus, a claim is an assertive statement expressed by a writer to prove that an argument is true or real.
This ultimately implies that, when writers engage in an argument or write an argumentative essay, they make use of a claim to state or express their opinions about the subject matter or topic.
Hence, argumentative essays make use of evidence to support claims.