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WEEK THREE

  1. OVERVIEW: SUPPORT
  2. THIS WEEK'S ASSIGNMENT
  3. FIRST "GROUP" MINI ASSIGNMENT
  4. READING ASSIGNMENT and REMINDERS FOR NEXT WEEK

OVERVIEW:

Now that you have the Claim and know how to write stirring Intros and Conclusions, you need to work on supporting your argument paper, so you have Chapter 4 in the Mayberry text.

My Chapter Four Notes:

Notice that the book says that a little research into your argument is always a good thing. So, even if it's not a research paper, getting a little background on your topic, especially with the Internet, helps a lot. Mayberry also reminds you that in almost any type of argument, facts are important, so a little research into getting the facts to cite is helpful. The text repeats, but in more detail, that consideration of the "opposition", the counter argument, is always advisable. No matter how sure you are that your position is correct, there will always be someone who says, "but what about...", and you need to have planned for that in your paper. It helps to know the opinions and beliefs of your reader, but that isn't always possible, and even if your reader DOES agree with you, you need to build a strong argument anyway. You never want to be lazy and assume that the reader can fill in the "obvious" arguments to your position. So, in some respects, it is better for your paper if you anticipate that your reader does hold a contrary opinion.

In terms of positioning, I still feel that you put your best argument LAST, although I agree that you also need to begin with a good argument. The weakest one can be sandwiched in the middle, buffered by stronger one. I feel the last impression is the one closest to the conclusion, so you leave your reader with your best "stuff". It's an artistic difference, I guess.

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THIS WEEK'S ASSIGNMENT:

Finish Essay 1.

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FIRST "GROUP" MINI ASSIGNMENT:

In your groups, assigned to you by the Web Board, you will answer Activity 3.7. Simply number down the text of your post and write the type of argument each sentence is. You don't need to type the whole sentence. Send your answers to the Web Board--A, B, C, or D.

GROUP LEADERS:

You will also have a group leader assigned. What do they do? These are people that in some cases will encourage you to get the group assignments in and remind you. They can also help explain things in the course and give advice or just talk with one another. The groups are to simulate a class group discussion as well, so anything you might talk about is fine, really, even if it's to just get to know one another. The group leaders can facilitate that. Usually in the first week or so, you introduce yourself. You don't have to use full names if you would prefer not to. It's just nice to know there are people out there in cyberspace who are with you taking the class and can talk about it with you. Any suggestions about group work are happily listened to.  The Web Board address is: