Assignment task: Throughout the semester, we will read and discuss 3 argumentative texts (articles, advertisements, speeches, or short videos). We will participate in at least one discussion board per text (100 word min), analyzing various principles of critical reasoning including the elements of argument, reasoning fallacies, and rhetorical devices and strategies. Each student will write a short analytical essay for each article based on the online discussions. Students will complete 3 short analytical essays during this semester. Each essay should be between 500-600 words and be in MLA format. You will also be required to complete a works cited page with the text cited as well as any outside sources you may choose to bring in.
Prompt: You are writing a short persuasive essay making a claim that the author of the
assigned text either was
effective in their argument or
ineffective. Did they do a good job
persuading people who don't agree with them?
The body of your essay should analyze how the critical reasoning techniques the author used helped strengthen or weaken their argument. You will need a strong thesis in which you state whether you feel the text made a strong, developed argument (or not) and how the author displayed their points (which strategies did they use?). Your supporting paragraphs will highlight which strategies were most effective and least effective. (If this seems unclear, please use the sample outline to help!)