October 30, 2008 Archives

In-class Activity

Ex 3-1: Oppose a Position

When you oppose a position, you point out weaknesses in the strongest arguments for the position that you oppose, and you introduce new arguments that support your point.

Your goal is not to make the other point of view look evil, or to make it look like only an idiot would disagree with you. (If that's what you feel in your heart of hearts, then maybe you should pick a different topic.)

This assignment isn't about out-shouting your opponent, it's about demonstrating your ability to use logic to find the best solution to a problem, and a scholarly approach to research should include a willingness to give up your own opinion if you uncover evidence of a better solution.

In order to focus your opposition, you will need to point out a specific argument that you're working against -- an advertisement, an editorial, some event or speech covered in the news.  You'll need to share with me the source of the opinion you are arguing against, so that I can read it (or listen to it, or watch it) myself.

Recent Comments

Dennis G. Jerz on Ex 2-4: Explain a Position: You can think of this as the "pro" side of an argu
Elyse Grogan on Ex 2-4: Explain a Position: i am not sure that i understand this assignment co
Dennis G. Jerz on Ex 2-1: Explain (for a novice): Amanda, thanks for letting me know you are interst
Amanda Casper on Ex 2-1: Explain (for a novice): Dr. Jerz, could you please add some basic informat
Candis Bostic on P1: Narrative Essay Revision: Would I be able to resubmit my revision of my narr
Candis Bostic on Ex 1-0: I, Writer: I handed in the wrong paper on turnitin.com for th
Dennis G. Jerz on Portfolio Workshop: Elyse, yes, that's perfectly fine. Sometimes that'
Elyse Grogan on Portfolio Workshop: i had to change my narrative essay because my othe
Dennis G. Jerz on Writing Center Visit: I learned that no matter where you are in the writ
Dennis G. Jerz on ILP Workshop: Glad to hear it, Brittany.
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