Lesson Details

Argument Structures

2014-2015

Principles of English 1, fall 2014

Date

Sept. 17, 2014

Additional Info
Learning Target: Students will differentiate between the three available argument structures and apply them to the arguments we have read so far.

First, we need to get caught up on one thing we haven't been able to get to yet, the available formats for argument essays. Please add this information the notes you have already started for argumentation.

In small groups, you will read and analyze the second mentor text. Divide the text among your group members and read it aloud. After you've read the entire essay aloud, please do the following:

  1. Number each paragraph, 1-5.
  2. Label the left-hand margin "What" and the right-hand margin "How."
  3. Go through the essay again, more slowly this time. On the left-hand side, label what the author is doing. This is where you will be writing all the parts of the argument. (Refer to the Cat Bill paper if you need to refresh your memory.)
  4. On the right-hand side, write HOW he is accomplishing what he is doing. This is where you will be writing various techniques like the three persuasive appeals (pathos, ethos, and logos) and other rhetorical techniques you may know (like asking rhetorical questions).
  5. In order to be able to use them yourself, put a box around all words or phrases that indicate a transition from one idea or point to another is being made. 

Still in your groups, take out a piece of paper and respond to the following questions:
  1. What is the most effective aspect of the "Health and Healing" essay? Use specifics to defend your point of view.
  2. What is the weakest aspect of the "Health and Healing" essay? Use specifics from the essay to defend your point of view.
  3. Which argument structure does the "Health and Healing" essay use (one, two, or three). Do you think this is the most effective rhetorical choice to argue this topic? Why or why not?
  4. What is the most effective aspect of the Cat Bill essay? 

    Use specifics from the essay to defend your point of view.

  5. What is the least effective aspect of the Cat Bill essay? 

    Use specifics from the essay to defend your point of view.

  6. Which argument structure does the Cat Bill use? Do you think this is the most effective rhetorical choice for this particular topic? Why or why not?

Homework: Write a reflection about your sample argument essay you wrote about a pet peeve of yours. Assess the effectiveness of your argument based on our class discussion today. What do you do best? Why is this? What is still weak? Why is this? Which persuasive appeal do you tend to use the most? Why? the least? Why?