ENG3UI Unit 3 – Literature and the “Real World” March 2007
Ms Rice Synthesis Op/Ed Piece
ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS have guided our study throughout the year:
Essential question for course overall –
What role does language play in the way humans relate to one another?
Questions for this year’s units:
Unit 1 – Find Your Voice – How do speakers and writers use different means to create their voices
Unit 2 – Power and the Art of Discourse – How do speakers and writers use language to shape and manipulate opinions of others?
In this Unit, we ask, “How does literature and other writing reflect people’s relationships in personal and political spheres?”
In this assignment, you will demonstrate that you:
* have established your own voice
* can use it to shape the opinions of your readers
* are able to evaluate the voices and ideas of others
* are able to develop your own opinions about issues that matter to you
Using the materials you have gathered in your journals during the year, you will narrow down your ideas and raw data to a single issue in the “real world” that interests you. You will then synthesize your sources and develop your own opinion about that issue, in a research-supported opinion piece (a “researched argument” or synthesis essay).
Final products to be submitted:
annotated bibliography of sources (due March 5 – more details to come)
your journal containing all your collected source materials (ungraded – for reference only)
a formal portfolio that includes:
3-5 source materials representing a mix of informational and opinion materials representing a range of sources & data
one visual source (e.g.: chart, graph or cartoon)
an opinion piece written by you that takes a clear position on the issue, using and making direct reference to the collected material listed above (approximately 2 pages, plus a Works Cited list)
Evaluation
Your final products (portfolio and annotated bibliography) will be evaluated based on the following general criteria (full rubric below):
Knowledge/Understanding:
Opinion piece shows a detailed and comprehensive understanding of the issue
Thinking/Inquiry:
Material collection and annotation demonstrate careful selection and evaluation of sources
Arguments are supported by thorough logic, reasoning, and evidence
Rhetorical choices enhance writing
Communication:
Diction is rich, varied, and mature
Ideas progress forcefully in an organized way
Writing employs a voice appropriate to purpose
Application:
Mechanics are polished
Bibliographic format and citation style are correct