Increase the Validity of Your Argument
Writing Workshop - Research Based Argument Essay - Self Selected Topic - Lesson 8
Writing Workshop - Research Based Argument Essay - Self Selected Topic - Lesson 8
Today, you will learn that persuasive writers choose words that help them present their evidence as incontestable. One way to do this is by using language that takes away sweeping generalizations. Also, you will finish your rough draft.
Look at this example:
Our school should force kids to wear school uniforms. One reason is that they're cheaper. "We have to spend more money buying different clothes for kids to wear to school every day," complained a parent.
Can we poke holes through this logic? Can we disagree with that parent?
How about this example:
Uniforms are usually cheaper for parents in the long run. Kids often feel pressure to wear the latest fashion and not to wear the same things often. This can cause a strain for parents. "We have to spend more money buying different clothes for kids to wear to school every day," complained one parent.
This version with some key wording added is more difficult to disagree with because the author is not saying that it is always true.
Let's look at another example:
Dogs should be allowed to run loose in the park in the early mornings because all dogs like to socialize with each other. They like to play with each other, not just run on a leash.
Is this better? Why?
Dogs should be allowed to run loose in the park in the early mornings because most dogs need some free time. They need to make their own decisions about who to play with, when to run and when to wrestle with another dog. Even if they decide NOT to play, at least they'd be making their own decisions. That's why dogs should be allowed to run loose sometimes-so they can be free for just a few minutes.
Good word choices to include
If it isn't always true, it might be true...
-often
-sometimes
-usually
-frequently
-in many cases
-in many instances
-on many occasions
-commonly
-ordinarily
Example: Instead of "Parents prefer uniforms. " Try: "In many cases, parents prefer uniforms. "
If it isn't true for everyone, it might be true for...
-many
-most
-countless
-innumerable
-a multitude of people
-numerous people
-scores of people
-diverse people
** Example: Instead of "Kids feel the pressure of having to keep up." Try: "Many kids feel the pressure of having to keep up."
Finish writing your rough draft. Keep in mind the word choices you are making about generalizations.
When you are finished with the assignment, here is what you can do:
Just keep writing.
Keep adding seeds.
Add to a already started seed.
Decide to take a seed through the writer’s process.
Reread your writing.
Edit your writing.
Work with a writing partner (with permission).
NEVER say "I am finished"
You need to be writing for a minimum of 30 minutes.