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Explore the values that shape our society and what we should prioritize. Consider the significance of moral, thoughtful, and reflective strengths. Use examples and personal experiences to support your argument.
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General Argument • “It is designed as a contemporary issues question, but it is really a values question.” • What are your values? • What do you think our society should value? • What should a moral, thoughtful, reflective society consider its most important strengths? The Riverside Reader
The Basics • Read the prompt carefully. • Identify the claim. • Create a sample list.
Read the Prompt Carefully • A brief passage from fiction, poetry, nonfiction (2 lines-1/2 page • An opinion-based piece (features a spokesperson) • Determine whether you agree, disagree, or wish to qualify your opinion [ADQ]
Examples • How do blogs and radio talk shows encourage or discourage the democratic process? • How can the United States’ wealth be better used to foster development in emerging countries?
Identify the Claim • Understand the claim. • Perceive the larger social content and ask questions about it. • Make your argument using examples from your own experience. “Through tatter’d clothes small vices do appear; Robes and furr’d gowns hid all. Plate sin with gold, And the strong lance of justice hurtles breaks. Arm it in rags, a pigmy’s straw does pierce it.” Wm. Shakespeare
Planning Process • Critically read the passage and underline anything that clearly defines the author’s claim. • Are you for it, against it, or ambivalent? • Make a list of examples.
Creating a Sample List • Evidence for the argument – the familiar: • Books • Movies • Televisions • Current events • History lessons • Personal experiences
List Examples • Movies • “The Color of Money” • “Wall Street” • Books • The Jungle • The Great Gatsby • Current events • Tsunami in Japan • The end of the recession
General Argument Essay Process • Identify and restate the fundamental claim. • Agree, disagree, or qualify. • Give examples to support your argument. • Close with a summarizing statement.