Assignments

Textbook Reading 
Chapter 3, “Strategies of Argumentation,” pages 165-205.
Reading 
Strategies for Composing Arguments 
In Unit 5 we continue our discussion of various argumentative styles as well as various techniques for composing our own arguments.
There are numerous ways to develop arguments. Depending on the circumstances, one type of strategy may be better than another. As critical thinkers we want to have as many tools as possible in our tool bag to build solid arguments to prove our points, make our case, or demonstrate that our opinions are valid. We want to be able to construct strong persuasive arguments. Just like the favorite hammer, most people will find certain strategies easier and feel more comfortable using them. However, having the other tools in the tool bag provides what you need if a hammer will not do the job.
Read all the material included in the link below, “Styles of Argumentation.”

Short Argumentative Essay
Your assignment is to write a short argumentative essay (one or two pages, double spaced) that presents an argument for a stance you hold. In other words, compose an argument where you want to persuade another to adopt the position you have on a topic. Use any type of argumentation we have studied in this unit (induction, deduction, by illustration, narration, description, refutation, from comparison, or from contraries.)
You can choose whatever topic interests you and allows you to make a strong argument. The point of the assignment is to reflect deeply on a topic that matters to you. If you need help selecting a topic, consult with your instructor. In general, a good strategy is to write on a topic you have discussed or argued about recently and that you consider important (or interesting, relevant, controversial, wrong-headed, or strange).
Your paper has to focus on a single topic, so make sure that you have identified just one viewpoint on a specific topic that you want to write about. For instance, if you want to persuade others on your job that a specific project should have a specific deadline, focus just on this project. Then compose one type of argument (inductive, deductive, by contraries, etc.) that attempts to establish your point of view.
First: Identify your topic. Your sentence should be free of jargon (explain any jargon that is absolutely necessary) and get to the heart of the matter straightaway. Don’t start with a general introduction to your topic and then take four or five sentences to describe it; your goal should be to crystallize the essence of the topic in one excellent sentence. Conciseness, clarity, and focus are crucial. A good point of reference is that the first sentence should be the conclusion that you are going to argue.
Second: Why is this topic important to you and how does the conclusion you have drawn impact your life? You can explain why you find it important or interesting and then reflect on how proving your conclusion relates to your life experience. For instance, "Because I need this project to be completed before I can begin something else, it is important that I can persuade others to agree with this deadline." You may spend several sentences on this if you wish, but one excellent sentence focusing on just one way this critical thinking might impact your life is preferable.
Third: Select a particular argumentation style (inductive, deductive, by illustration, etc.) and compose your argument. To maintain focus and clarity, remember that the statements you make are premises and must relate to each other, be relevant to the conclusion and sufficiently support your point.
Fourth: Restate the conclusion you introduced in the first sentence by showing the connection to the supporting sentences in the third step.
Leave yourself enough time to rewrite, edit, and proofread your paper. (Hint: A sufficiently clear, focused and concise paper should ‘sound right’ when you read it out loud, and should be reasonably clear to a friend who is not in the class.)
If you find it difficult to select a topic to write about or have any questions about how your paper should be organized, please consult with your instructor.
Submitting your Assignment 
Put your project in a Word document. Save it in a location and with a name that you will remember.
When you are ready to submit it, click on the dropbox and complete the steps below:
•	Click the link that says Submit an Assignment.
•	In the "Submit to Basket" menu, select Unit 5: Project.
•	In the "Comments" field, include at least the title of your paper.
•	Click the Add Attachments button.
•	Follow the steps listed to attach your Word document.
•	To view your graded work, come back to the Dropbox or go to the Gradebook after your instructor has evaluated it. Click the Dropbox to access it.
•	Make sure that you save a copy of your submitted assignment.