During the 4th period two argumentative essays will be required in addition to the timed essays we write. Below are important issues we will explore via discussion and reading:
When is "majority rule" appropriate? The "right" to die.
What is history? Is college a waste of time?
What is the wilderness in America? Is it important?
The right to bear arms (or bare arms). How do we know things?
Although there may be other issues which arise that we will also discuss and though we may give more time to one than to another, these are the issues we will spend much of our time thinking, reading and talking about. It would be good for you to do some outside reading about these issues and/or to be aware of articles which have appeared in print recently on the issues.
You will be free to write from any of these topics. The papers will be due no later than February 12th and February 28th (in the format usual for this class) and should conform to the normal essay plan being no more that 500 words in length. The argumentative papers must also strive to meet the criteria set below:
1. Have a great and original beginning.
2. Establish a clear position on the issue.
3. Contain a discernable but not a blatant thesis.
4. Support the position using evidence.
5. Handle (not attack) at least one opposing argument.
6. Build credibility to enhance your position; do not persuade.
7. Have one classmate certify that you have spell checked the paper and that
he/she has carefully proofed the paper for grammatical content and style.
Further, review all on-line documents relating to argumentation before and during the writing of these essays. If you use sources - and you should use some sources to support your argument - please note them in a bibliography and using AP style notes -(Hughes, p 121), for example - following your quotation or reference. The bibliography should be on a separate page.
We have studied the definitions of logical fallacies and argumentative terms. Think about these before and during writing and during your proofing of another's paper. Avoid faulty or weak thinking which will detract from your credibility. Elevate your tone to make yourself believable and wrap your ideas in your best stylistic attire. It is often the way you say a thing rather than what you say that will increase your credibility with your reader.
