Position Papers: Research and Argument
In this unit- students will attempt to enter the tricky intersection of critical literacy and argument writing. We will be working on three different "strands" through this unit. One is attention to the notion of principled argument versus persuasion. The second is attention to debate as a method to rehearse and develop complex arguments that are fair to opposing viewpoints. The third is attention to students' emotional as well as intellectual needs when they work in class with topics that include real-world violence. Why the focus of the topic of Violence? Frankly, because it is absolutely relevant to students' lives. In this unit, we will work with students to tackle complex, real-world issues, beginning with the equation of whether role-playing and video games containing fictional violence are diverting or harmful, and then we will question whether, or under what conditions, child soldiers should be given amnesty.
Charts used in Class:
Resources and Examples
Ehrenworth, Mary, Cornelius Minor, and Julie Shepherd. Position Papers: Research and Argument. Ed. Luct Calkins. N.p.: n.p., n.d. Print.