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ENGL 101 Composition Practice 1 Argument and Thesis Statements Assignment solutions complete answers
ENGL 101 Composition Practice 1 Argument and Thesis Statements Assignment solutions complete answers
1 . Argument/Persuasion
When writing an argumentative essay, you should present your point of view in a logical fashion and give strong supporting evidence. Your essay should have a thesis in which you clearly present your position on a subject. This thesis should be supported by argumentative points. The argumentative points need evidence such as examples, testimony from authorities, and factual information from research to back them up.
One of the first steps to writing an argumentative essay is to select a focused, appropriate topic. You must narrow large subjects until you can adequately address them within the length of your essay. Select a subject about which you hold a strong opinion and for which alternative or opposing opinions can be held, and develop a critical position about it. Ask yourself these questions: What is important to me? What do I feel strongly about? Where do I see a need for change?
A thesis statement of an argumentative essay should state the writer’s point of view in his or her own words. Which of the following is a working argumentative thesis statement about traditional bullying?
One study of Colorado students found they were much more likely to be traditionally bullied than cyber bullied.
Although cyber bullying has received enormous attention, traditional bullying is still a far greater problem in American schools.
To present an effective argument, you must not only support and defend your position, but also consider the other side of the story—the counterargument—and refute it. Arrange your support in a logical manner to make your case as persuasive as possible.
Directions: Read the paragraph below from an argumentative essay and answer the question that follows.
While many people may not realize it, the government is already monitoring the Internet responsibly. A report by Google states that the U.S. government submitted only 123 requests to remove content from the Internet between July 1 and December 31, 2009, and Google agreed to comply with 80% of them. According to Google’s top lawyer, David Drummond, the “vast majority of such requests are legitimate, such as removing child pornography.” Clearly, the U.S. government is not abusing its powers in such cases but is actually taking steps to prevent illegal material from spreading.
Which of the following is not used to prove the writer’s claim that the government is already monitoring the Internet responsibly?
The writer anticipates the opposition with a direct quotation from Google’s top lawyer.
The writer uses a fact about the small number of requests that the U.S. government has made to remove content from Google.
The writer uses a direct quotation from Google’s lawyer as testimony from an authority on Internet censorship.
1 . Argument/Persuasion
A thesis statement of an argumentative essay should state the writer’s point of view in his or her own words. Which of the following is a working argumentative thesis statement on U.S. government assistance of Native Americans?
According to a 2004 report by the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, Native Americans living on reservations have high suicide rates.
The U.S. government must offer more effective support for the health and quality of life among Native Americans.
American citizens deserve the right and responsibility to educate themselves and their children about what they learn from the Internet. Proponents of censorship say that the government is responsible for protecting the public from online content that may be violent, sexual, or hateful. However, this is not the government’s job. While one family may want to restrict the kinds of information that their children see, other families may have open policies about children’s use of the Internet. For instance, Robin Ludivo, a mother from San Jose, says, “I want my children to satisfy their curiosity when they want to learn: our family Internet policy is a great freedom.” Regardless, it is not the government’s job to make those decisions for the individual.
Which of the following is not used as evidence to prove the writer’s claim that it is the right of the individual to decide what to view on the Internet?
The writer anticipates the harmful effects of the government censorship of the Internet.
The writer uses an example to show that families make different decisions about the Internet.
The writer answers the opposition by suggesting that it is not the government’s job to decide what is appropriate online content.
1 . Argument/Persuasion
A thesis statement of an argumentative essay should state the writer’s point of view in his or her own words. Which of the following is a working argumentative thesis statement about the decline of the middle class?
The middle class is in steady decline with no immediate hope of resurgence.
According to Business Week, between 1973 and 2000 the average real income of the bottom 90% of American taxpayers fell by 7% while the income of the top 1% rose by 148%.
Internet site-blocking software can deny students equal access to education. In many regions of the United States, students may want to learn about points of view on religion, sexuality, or politics that are different from the norms in their communities. For example, if the Internet was carefully screened, students might be unable to access diverse perspectives on insurance coverage for gender reassignment surgery. Furthermore, many families cannot afford the Internet; students whose families cannot afford the Internet do not have the opportunity to explore issues that their schools prevent them from viewing. Screening the Internet at school puts certain students at a personal and educational disadvantage.
Which of the following is used to prove the writer’s point that web filters deny students a right to equal education?
The writer gives a hypothetical example of what could happen if students were unable to access diverse Web sites.
The writer provides testimony from an expert.
The writer uses factual information gathered from research.
2 . Types of Academic Argument
In the academic sense, an argument is not a heated disagreement; instead, it is a debatable idea that is put forth and defended—most often with logic and reason. Arguments of this sort have the power to shape our culture, policies, laws, and ultimately how we live. To learn about three important kinds of arguments, read the information that follows.
The term classical argument refers to the features of argument described by the rhetoricians of ancient Greece and Rome. Among these features are claims, support (or proofs), and appeals.
There are three kinds of claims:
•
Claims of fact present arguments about the nature or existence of things.
•
Claims of value present arguments about the intensity or worth of things.
•
Claims of policy present arguments about actions that might be taken.
Directions: Select the correct answers to the questions that follow.
Which of the following is a feature of most academic arguments?
The presentation of logical, reasonable ideas
The presentation of ideas in an intensely emotional fashion
The presentation of lies as if they were the truth
Which of the following sentences is an example of logos, which is an appeal to logic and reason?
As a scientist who focuses on climate change, I can offer important insights into the causes and effects of global warming.
To ignore climate change is to set in motion the complete destruction of humanity!
All the evidence suggests that if we do not change the way we produce and consume energy, we will threaten the long-term stability of our planet.
Directions: In the following table, indicate which kind of argument each idea or approach is associated with.
Idea or Approach
Classical
Rogerian
Toulmin
Presenting arguments in a way that fosters cooperation and understanding
Appealing to the audience by focusing attention on the speaker’s credibility
Using reasoning to explore and develop ideas
2 . Types of Academic Argument
Rogerian argument is named after the psychologist Carl Rogers, who believed that communication is impaired when people form quick judgments about the ideas of others. Rogers believed that such judgments might be avoided if people argued in a way that emphasized reason and fostered a sense of cooperation and understanding. He advised that people form arguments in the following way:
1.
Listen to the other person’s position.
2.
Accurately restate that person’s position.
3.
State your own idea about the topic at hand.
Directions: Select the correct answers to the questions that follow.
An academic argument usually presents which of the following?
An idea that is impossible to disagree with
An idea based on opinion and emotion
An idea that is reasonable but with which people might disagree
Which of the following sentences is an example of ethos, which is an appeal based on character and credibility?
Of course he boosted the painting! It’s worth millions! Selling it on the black market would solve all his problems!
I have known this man since we were kids, and he would never participate in any sort of theft—especially one that deprived the public of a priceless work of art.
Given the total lack of witnesses and physical evidence, you must find my client not guilty.
Directions: In the following table, indicate which kind of argument each idea or approach is associated with.
Idea or Approach
Classical
Rogerian
Toulmin
Engaging the audience by appealing to their emotions
Recognizing that all arguments share certain features
Arguing in a way that avoids making quick judgments about others’ ideas
2 . Types of Academic Argument
Types of Arguments
The philosopher and educator Stephen Toulmin proposed that all arguments share certain features—namely: claim, grounds, warrant, backing, rebuttal, and qualifier.
Toulmin also argued that reasoning may be used for both inquiry and advocacy:
Inquiry
Advocacy
When used for inquiry, reasoning can help people uncover, develop, and explore the complexities of ideas.
Using reasoning for advocacy entails using it to support existing ideas.
Directions: Select the correct answers to the questions that follow.
Which of the following do academic arguments typically seek to do?
Persuade people to believe something that is not true
Explain why a debatable idea is reasonable
Insult people who disagree with a particular idea
Which of the following sentences is an example of pathos, which is an appeal to emotion?
Lengthening the school day robs children of something undeniably precious: the chance to be children.
Studies show that longer school days can help students retain information.
As a teenager, I have a better understanding of how longer school days affect young people than most so-called experts.
Directions: In the following table, indicate which kind of argument each idea or approach is associated with.
Idea or Approach
Classical
Rogerian
Toulmin
Using reasoning to support existing ideas
Listening to and restating an opponent’s position before responding
Distinguishing between claims of fact, value, and policy
3 . The Rhetorical Situation
Rhetoric is the study of how language can be used most effectively to influence beliefs. To learn about key rhetorical concepts, read the information that follows.
Key Concepts of Rhetoric
The phrase rhetorical situation is used to describe the context which a writer or speaker addresses a particular audience about a debatable issue. A rhetorical situation consists of the following elements:
•
Exigence
The need or occasion for presenting ideas
•
Writer or speaker
The person presenting ideas about a given topic
•
Audience
The people who will receive the writer or speaker’s ideas
•
Method of communication
How ideas are conveyed (for example, through written or oral presentation)
•
Rules of communication
The implicit or explicit guidelines governing how the ideas should be expressed
•
Message
The ideas the writer or speaker is attempting to express
Any time you prepare to write—be it an academic, professional, or social situation—it is important that you consider the elements of the rhetorical situation at hand. Doing so will help ensure that your composition is effective and well received.
Which of the following are part of the rhetorical situation? Check all that apply.
Directions: Examine each student’s concern, and then answer the questions that follow.
“My older sister keeps talking about how important it is to consider the rhetorical situation before writing anything. Is it really necessary to do that, though? Can’t I just write what I want?”
What would you say to help this student?
It’s definitely necessary! Considering the rhetorical situation will ensure that you write something effective and appropriate.
Considering the rhetorical situation isn’t actually necessary. The most important thing is to write what you feel.
You only have to consider the rhetorical situation when writing academic essays.
“I’m writing an e-mail to my professor because I need an extension to finish my essay. This is what I’ve written. What do you think?”
June 24, 2014
From: jpietrzak@midwest.edu
To: profd@midwest.edu
Subject: Extension!
Hi prof.,
I’m writing 2 ask U for an Xtension. Something super important came up and I don’t have time to finish my essay. . . Can U please help?!!!
Thx!
JP
Which comment would be most likely to help this student?
Your use of exclamation points really helps the urgency of your message come through. I’m sure you’ll get the extension.
You need to think more about the rhetorical situation at hand. This message doesn’t make clear what it is you want.
I think you’ve misjudged the rhetorical situation. Your audience isn’t likely to respond well to a message that’s this informal.
3 . The Rhetorical Situation
The ancient Greeks focused on five canons, or categories, of rhetoric that can be used to help shape a composition. These canons are:
•
Invention
The discovery and development of ideas
•
Arrangement
The organization of ideas
•
Style or voice
The use of language in a way that is both individualized and appropriate for the situation
•
Memory
The recollection of ideas
•
Delivery
The presentation of ideas
As you develop a composition, be sure to focus on these to the extent that the situation requires.
Which of the following categories (or canons) of rhetoric did the ancient Greeks pay particular attention to? Check all that apply.
Invention
Audience
Memory
Delivery
Directions: Examine each student’s concern, and then answer the questions that follow.
“My biology professor keeps asking us to analyze things—but what does analyze really mean?”
What would you say to help this student?
To analyze something is to restate it in your own words.
To analyze something is to make a broad audience interested in the subject.
To analyze something is to break it down and examine it piece by piece.
“I’m writing an e-mail to my professor because I need a recommendation for an internship. This is what I’ve written. What do you think?”
September 17, 2014
From: rbernal@statecollege.edu
To: patel@worldcorp.com
Subject: Recommendation
Prof. Patel,
I need a letter of recommendation for an internship. I’ve been your student for three semesters now, so you know me well. Plus, I think I’ve done well in your classes, so I’ve earned it.
Raj Bernal
Which comment would be most likely to help this student?
You need to think more about the rhetorical situation at hand. This e-mail doesn’t make it clear who your audience is.
I think you’ve judged the rhetorical situation pretty well. Your audience will definitely understand your message!
I think you’ve misjudged the rhetorical situation. There are unwritten rules about writing to professors, including that you should be polite.
3 . The Rhetorical Situation
Key Concepts of Rhetoric
Academic writing typically has certain rhetorical traits:
•
It tries to make revelatory points.
Rather than repeating widely held beliefs, academic writing endeavors to present a new way of looking at a topic.
•
It relies on logic rather than emotion.
In the academic arena, reason is king. An argument that relies on appeals to emotion rather than logic is unlikely to be regarded favorably by an academic audience.
•
It analyzes the subject.
Academic writing typically seeks to analyze ideas—that is, to break them down and methodically examine them.
•
It tries to engage a broad audience.
While many arguments in popular culture are aimed at relatively small audiences—audiences defined by age, political leanings, or other traits—academic writing does not limit its audience according to such characteristics. Instead, it tries to present arguments in a way that invites people of all backgrounds into a way of thinking.
Which of the following are traits of academic arguments? Check all that apply.
They try to analyze the subject at hand
They try to reinforce widely held beliefs
They try to appeal to a broad audience
They emphasize emotion over logic
Directions: Examine each student’s concern, and then answer the questions that follow.
“My law professor keeps saying that in most academic and professional situations it’s important to write arguments that don’t rely on emotion. What’s the problem with emotional arguments, though?”
What would you say to help this student?
Emotional arguments don’t make readers aware of your character and credibility, which are important persuasive tools.
Emotional arguments are not appropriate in any rhetorical situation.
Emotional arguments don’t make use of logic and reason, which are the basis of most academic and professional communication.
“I’m writing an e-mail to my professor because I need an extension to finish my essay. This is what I’ve written. What do you think?”
October 6, 2014
From: mtoran@southtech.edu
To: kbliss@southtech.edu
Subject: Extension
Dear Professor Bliss,
I am writing to request an extension on the essay that is due on Friday, October 10th. My older sister is having a baby, and it’s necessary that I fly home for a few days to help out around the house. Is there any chance you would let me turn in my essay on Wednesday, October 15th, instead?
Thank you very much for considering my request.
Sincerely,
Martin Toran
Which comment would be most likely to help this student?
I think you’ve misjudged the rhetorical situation. Your audience isn’t likely to respond well to something so polite and formal.
I think you’ve judged the rhetorical situation pretty well. Your message is clear and you’ve addressed your audience in an appropriate way.
You need to think more about the rhetorical situation at hand. This message doesn’t make clear what it is you want.
4 . Define and Consider Intended Audience
Audience means the person or people a text is created for; a frequently used synonym is readers. This is who you want to inform or persuade about your topic.
For most college assignments, your audience is your instructor and possibly your classmates. However, some assignments will ask you to write for other audiences, real or imagined. Identify your audience, and then learn as much as you can about their background, their knowledge about your topic, and their existing attitudes.
Knowing what audience you are writing for will help you decide what type of language to use (such as technical words), how much background information is required, and what kind of evidence and appeals to use if you want to convince that audience of something. For instance, if you are writing a persuasive essay and know your audience will not want to agree with your position, it would likely be most effective to use logical, fact-based support—rather than an emotional story—to change their minds.
Directions: Read the following paragraph and answer the questions that follow.
(1) Schools should not rely on heavy-handed Internet filtering tools to prevent students from accessing controversial websites. (2) First, on a practical level, Internet filtering software can block both "inappropriate" material and educational information. (3) For example, a study from the Brennan Center of Justice says that certain filtration systems will block searches on Herman Melville's classic book Moby-Dick because of the potentially inappropriate word in the title. (4) More importantly, however, web filtering can deny students "equal access to education." (5) Students may want to learn about points of view on religion, sexuality, or politics that are different from the norms in their communities. For example, a student who wanted to learn more about homosexuality might be blocked by third-party filter company software. (6) Further, students whose families have the Internet at home may be able to access a wide range of information. However, in this country, many families cannot afford the Internet at home, and the children of those families do not have the opportunity to explore important issues outside of school. (7) Finally, parents, teachers, and librarians must teach children to interact with all information responsibly. (8) Some may say that we must protect children from exposure to material that may be violent, sexual, or controversial; on the other hand, if we don't teach children to make good choices about how to use the Internet in school, what will they do when they are faced with the overload of information that will confront them in the real world? (9) Ultimately, teachers and librarians must educate students about how to responsibly explore the incredible expanse of information on the Internet without blindly relying on filtering software that prevents access to important subject matter.
Source: Wagner, Mitch. “How Internet Censorship Harms Schools.” Computer World, 26 Mar. 2010, www.computerworld.com/article/2468073/endpoint-security/how-internet-censorship-harms-schools.html.
A probable audience for this argumentative paragraph is:
Computer technicians
Parents and educators
Elementary school students
What kind of evidence does this paragraph use to appeal to its audience? Check all that apply.
Statistics
Authority
Example
Personal experience
4 . Define and Consider Intended Audience
(1) The United States should not exercise the power to censor online content. (2) First and foremost, online censorship impedes the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution: the right to free speech. (3) The Constitution says that Congress "shall make no law . . . abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press. . . ." (4) Each citizen of the United States deserves this Constitutional right. (5) Second, as the American Library Association states, intellectual freedom is the "basis for our democratic system," and each of us has the right to "seek and receive information from all points of view without restriction." (6) Supporters of censorship say that the government is responsible for protecting the public from online content that may be violent, sexual, or hateful; however, each of us has the right and the responsibility to educate ourselves and our children about what we learn from the Internet. (7) Finally, censoring some material could be a slippery slope toward the government's restriction of other information. (8) Who would draw the lines to limit government control? (9) Some countries have shown that drawing these lines can be difficult; for example, China's Internet censorship policies prevent users from accessing social networking sites, international news, and anything that contradicts the Communist Party. (10) The United States must lead by example and practice what it teaches by preventing Internet censorship in our country.
Sources: Palmer, Doug and Ralph Jennings. “China, U.S. Spar Over Internet Censorship.” Reuters, 22 Jan. 2010, ca.reuters.com/article/topNews/idCATRE60L1DK20100122; “Bill of Rights.” Charters of Freedom, U.S. Archives, 25 Sept. 1789, www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/bill_of_rights.html; “Intellectual Freedom and Censorship Q & A.” American Library Association, 2010, www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/censorshipfirstamendmentissues/ifcensorshipqanda.
A probable audience for this argumentative paragraph is:
American citizens and voters
The American Library Association
Chinese ambassadors
What kind of evidence does this paragraph use to appeal to its audience? Check all that apply.
Example
Statistics
Personal experience
Authority
4 . Define and Consider Intended Audience
(1) The U.S. government must keep the right to censor online content. (2) First and most important, the government can fight crime by preventing the spread of illegal and obscene Internet information. (3) Although many people worry that Internet censorship may restrict the First Amendment right to free speech, the U.S. government must reserve the right to stand up against speech that is not "free," but rather hateful, bigoted, or dangerous. (4) For example, criminal activities captured on YouTube are not "free speech," but rather public displays of illegal behavior that deserve to be punished. (5) Second, the U.S. government has acted responsibly and used its power to censor carefully. (6) A recently published report by Google states that the U.S. government submitted only 123 requests to remove content from the Internet between July 1 and December 31, 2009, and Google agreed to comply with 80% of them; according to Google's top lawyer, David Drummond, the "vast majority of such requests are legitimate, such as removing child pornography." (7) Clearly, the U.S. government is not abusing its powers in such cases but is actually taking steps to prevent illegal material from spreading. (8) Finally, some authority must take action to protect people, youth especially, from exposure to hateful Internet sites. (9) If the government did not monitor and remove materials such as child pornography or hate-crime related content, this illegal material would be available to all users, including children. (10) While the U.S. government must use the power to censor the Internet with caution, it is essential that it monitor and control the most excessively illegal and inappropriate online material.
Sources: Guynn, Jessica. “Google Tool Will Track Government Demands.” Los Angeles Times, 21 Apr. 2010, articles.latimes.com/2010/apr/21/business/la-fi-google-20100421; Liedtke, Michael. “Google Discloses Demands for Censorship, User Data.” Associated Press, 20 Apr. 2010, archive.boston.com/business/technology/articles/2010/04/20/google_discloses_demands_for_censorship_user_data/.
A probable audience for this argumentative paragraph is:
The U.S. Supreme Court
Google executives
American citizens and voters
What kind of evidence does this paragraph use to appeal to its audience? Check all that apply.
Personal experience
Example
Statistics
Authority
5 . Define and Consider Purpose
One of the first steps to writing well is considering your purpose (why the text is written). Your purpose for writing might be one of many broad reasons:
•
to inform
•
to persuade
•
to express
•
to entertain
In college courses and in most professional situations, you will most frequently write either to inform or to persuade. Within each of these broader reasons fall many more specific purposes for writing, which may be stated or suggested in assignments. Here are some examples of each type of purpose:
To Inform
To Persuade
to announce
to argue
to define
to advocate
to demonstrate
to call to action
to describe
to convince
to exemplify
to defend
to explain
to evaluate
to report
to justify
to teach
to recommend
Knowing your purpose will help focus your goals for a project. For instance, clarifying that your purpose is to call readers to action—not just convince them of an opinion—would affect everything from your thesis statement to what evidence you include.
To identify the purpose of a writing project, read your assignment carefully, looking for key words like argue, demonstrate, or analyze. You may have the opportunity to choose your own purpose or to define that purpose more specifically.
Directions: Decide whether the purpose of each writing project would be to inform or to persuade.
A police report of a stolen vehicle
The purpose of this piece of writing would be to:
Persuade
Inform
Characteristics of the participants in a sleep study
The purpose of this piece of writing would be to:
Inform
Persuade
Directions: Decide whether the purpose of each writing sample would be to inform or to persuade.
On Tuesday, scientists announced that they have identified the fossil remains of the smallest dinosaur ever to roam North America. The bones were discovered 30 years ago in Colorado.
The purpose of this piece of writing is to:
Persuade
Inform
Tobacco companies should be forced to pay major settlements to anyone who has become addicted or negatively affected by the use of their products. The clinical evidence of the terrible effects produced by even secondhand smoke is enough for legislators to consider legal action against the powerful corporations.
The purpose of this piece of writing is to:
Persuade
Inform
5 . Define and Consider Purpose
A review of a new restaurant’s food
The purpose of this piece of writing would be to:
Persuade
Inform
An argumentative essay about the benefits of recycling
The purpose of this piece of writing would be to:
Inform
Persuade
Recognizing that the eye nerves translate information to the brain about the time of day, scientists observe that we adapt to the light conditions around us. Also, researchers have recently discovered that teenagers are essentially nocturnal. That is, they are more active at night but do not function as well early in the morning.
The purpose of this piece of writing is to:
Inform
Persuade
Blogging–short for "Web logging," or logging thoughts and ideas on to a Web page–is a great way to share your ideas with like-minded people. You can easily upload your writing and ask other "bloggers" to post their comments.
The purpose of this piece of writing is to:
Persuade
Inform
5 . Define and Consider Purpose
A health care pamphlet about the warning signs of skin cancer
The purpose of this piece of writing would be to:
Persuade
Inform
A history essay about pioneer living
The purpose of this piece of writing would be to:
Inform
Persuade
Kids at Morning Star Elementary School, in Bozeman, Montana, turned their ideas into actions. The fifth-grade class raised more than $1,100 for the Red Cross and Haiti.
The purpose of this piece of writing is to:
Persuade
Inform
I don't think that students should be paid for good grades. Students should just want to get good grades. It's also not fair to kids who work hard but don't always get good grades on tests.
The purpose of this piece of writing is to:
Persuade
Inform
6 . Define and Consider Context in Writing Assignments
Once you know why you are writing (purpose) and who you are writing for (audience), consider the environment where and when this writing is taking place.
The context of a rhetorical situation is what surrounds the text—the time and place where it is written and the existing discussion it joins and responds to. This includes adjusting the text to follow guidelines; for example, a writer may be working on a four- to five-page essay, that is due in three weeks, for a specific course. The length, deadline, and subject all form part of the essay’s context. The diagram below illustrates the relationship of text and context:
Considering context also requires engaging with the larger conversation around your topic—among your classmates, the general population, and/or experts. No topic or position exists all by itself. What have others said about this information, these ideas, or this debate? Why does your position matter and how does it relate to the position of others? Understanding and responding to context will help you to achieve your purpose and to connect with your audience.
Rhetorical context includes the author, the intended audience, and the date and place of publication.
False
True
The “context” of a text also involves:
The opinion of the reader
The vocabulary in a piece of writing
How the piece contributes to debate on the topic
6 . Define and Consider Context in Writing Assignments
Rhetorical context includes what is happening in the surrounding environment, the attitudes of the people who will be reading the essay, and the date of publication.
False
True
The “context” of a text also involves:
The opinions of the person who gave the assignment
The length of the text
The number of sources used in a piece of writing
6 . Define and Consider Context in Writing Assignments
Rhetorical context includes the length of the written piece.
False
True
The “context” of a text also involves:
The audience’s knowledge and opinions about the subject matter
The formatting of the text
The writing style of the author
7 . Appeals
It is sometimes effective to support an argument by connecting it to an audience’s values, beliefs, needs, or sense of reason. This kind of connection is known as an appeal.
Appeals may be divided into five categories: appeals to logic, appeals to character, appeals to emotion, appeals to need, and appeals to value. To learn more about these, read the information that follows.
Kinds of Appeals
Definition: An appeal to logic is an attempt to engage the audience’s intellect. These appeals explicitly or implicitly request that audiences set aside their emotions and focus on a rational assessment of the ideas presented.
Example: “It is only logical that if we fail to educate young people about nutrition, they will make poor dietary choices.”
Key Concept: In academic writing situations, logic is king. When addressing academic audiences, it can be helpful to use phrases that signal an emphasis on reason—phrases such as “this evidence indicates” and “as a result of these conditions.”
Directions: Read the following student’s concern, and then answer the question that follows.
“My friend Erica suggested that I use an appeal to need at the end of my presentation about public transportation funding. I’m not sure what the advantage of that kind of appeal is, though. Do you know?”
What would you say to help this student?
Because an appeal to need connects your argument to an audience’s most powerful emotions, it can excite or inspire your audience.
Because an appeal to need connects your argument to an audience’s basic human needs, it can make your ideas seem both reasonable and important.
Because an appeal to need connects your argument to an audience’s core beliefs, it can be difficult to refute.
Directions: Identify each of the following types of appeals.
“Every scrap of physical evidence—the fingerprints on the safe-cracking equipment, the footprints in the garden outside the drawing room, the DNA on the cigarette recovered from the secret passage—all of them point to the defendant. He is guilty, guilty, guilty.”
What kind of appeal is this?
Appeal to value
Appeal to logic
Appeal to character
“The assistance our city and state provide to homeless citizens is tragically inadequate. And I don’t say this only because I have examined the latest studies and the latest budgets—although I have. I say this because just three years ago, I was homeless. I myself have been through the system. I myself have seen how things work and how they don’t work.”
What kind of appeal is this?
Appeal to value
Appeal to character
Appeal to emotion
7 . Appeals
“My friend Erica suggested that I use an appeal to value at the end of my presentation about marriage equality. I’m not sure what the advantage of that kind of appeal is, though. Do you know?”
What would you say to help this student?
Because an appeal to value connects your argument to an audience’s core beliefs, it can be difficult to refute.
Because an appeal to value connects your argument to an audience’s basic human needs, it can make your ideas seem both reasonable and important.
Because an appeal to value connects your argument to an audience’s most powerful emotions, it can excite or inspire your audience.
“As someone who has devoted her entire professional life to military service, I am well aware of sacrifices soldiers make every day.”
What kind of appeal is this?
Appeal to character
Appeal to emotion
Appeal to logic
“We all must have the ability to cast a ballot. This is the one thing required to make our democracy a real democracy. And if we, the people, do not have this, our nation cannot survive.”
What kind of appeal is this?
Appeal to logic
Appeal to need
Appeal to character
7 . Appeals
“My friend Erica said that I should primarily use appeals to logic in the essay I’m writing for my political science midterm. I guess I can do that—but what would be wrong with focusing on other kinds of appeals?”
What would you say to help this student?
Most academic audiences place a premium on logic; they tend to be wary of other kinds of appeals.
In order to be effective, a piece of writing should only contain one kind of appeal.
Appeals to character, emotion, need, or value are never effective.
“Think of a time when you were ignored—a time when people treated you as if you had no value. Think of a time when it seemed as if the whole world was conspiring to isolate you and fill you with self-doubt. Wasn’t it awful? Aren’t you thankful that it’s over? Well, for some people in our society, times like these are never over. For many in our society, times like these are normal.”
What kind of appeal is this?
Appeal to emotion
Appeal to character
Appeal to value
“Are adjunct professors important to the life of a university? Absolutely. And are they paid a fair wage—or anything resembling a fair wage? Absolutely not. As someone who has spent the last decade studying the careers of adjuncts, and as someone who was an adjunct himself for many years, I know their struggles well.”
What kind of appeal is this?
Appeal to logic
Appeal to value
Appeal to character
8 . Understanding Thesis Statements
A thesis statement is a sentence, typically placed at the end of the introductory paragraph, that expresses the main point of the entire essay. Just as supporting ideas in a paragraph provide evidence or support for the topic sentence, the topic sentences of each paragraph in an essay provide evidence or support for the thesis statement. Because a thesis statement covers the main point of an essay, it must be general enough to cover several paragraphs. Be careful not to make your thesis statement too general, though, because it needs to be specific enough to focus your essay around one particular idea that you will then discuss in the remaining paragraphs.
The type of thesis statement a writer uses is dependent upon the essay’s purpose. For example, a process analysis essay explains how do something or how something works. A thesis in this paper should inform readers of the results that can be obtained by following the steps in the paper. A thesis for one on how to break bad habits might read:
Breaking bad habits can seem impossible, but by following these steps, a person can replace the negative behaviors with good ones.
An argumentative essay makes a debatable claim and supports this claim with sufficient evidence. An argumentative thesis would introduce readers to the topic and stance being presented. In an essay that argues the benefits of homeschooling, the thesis may appear as:
Homeschooling increases a student’s personal growth, allows for the discovery of strengths, weaknesses, and areas of interest, and offers the chance to tailor learning strategies to unique learning needs.
Directions: Helena, a sociology major, has created her first thesis statement. Read her scenario and then answer the questions that follow.
“My Popular Culture professor has assigned an essay that analyzes how the media affects social behavior. I asked her to review my thesis statement, and she thinks it’s a great start to my essay.”
Thesis Statement: The media has had profound negative effects on social behavior, namely a desensitization to violence, the facilitation of criminal acts, and significantly shortened attention spans.
The subject of this thesis statement is .
What is the controlling idea of this thesis statement?
Has had profound negative effects on social behavior
The media
Desensitization to violence, the facilitation of violent acts, and significantly shortened attention spans
Directions: Tyler, a history major, has some great ideas for his essay assignment, but he’s unsure how to begin. Read his scenario and then answer the question that follows.
“My American History professor would like each student in the class to write an essay on one of most influential historical moments to impact the twenty-first century. I’ve decided to write about the election of President Barack Obama, our country’s first African-American president. I’m just not sure how to compose my thesis statement.”
Which of the following sentences would make a good thesis statement for Tyler’s essay? Check all that apply.
The election of Barack Obama in 2008 was a reflection of the United States’ desire to move forward in its fight against racism, leaving a history of slavery and segregation in the past.
The 2008 election of an African-American president in the United States was a clear indicator that Democracy truly was, and is, the most powerful form of government in the world.
President Obama’s election in 2008 reflected important values of the American people.
Barack Obama’s election was important because he was the United States’ first African-American president.
In 2008, the American people elected an African-American man to the presidency not because of the color of his skin, but because of the inspirational ideals he represented.
8 . Understanding Thesis Statements
Like a topic sentence, a thesis statement contains two ingredients: (1) the subject that you’re writing about + (2) a controlling idea that expresses your opinion about the subject. Take a look at the following example:
Subject
Controlling Idea
Thesis Statement
The mantis shrimp
+
has unusual adaptations that assist it in hunting and killing prey
=
The mantis shrimp has unusual adaptations that assist it in hunting and killing prey.
This expository thesis statement, one that would appear in an essay that explains something, is specific, in that it gives an opinion on one particular sea creature, but it is still general enough to allow you to write several body paragraphs to support it. For instance, through your research, you will learn that the mantis shrimp is multicolored, has independently moving eyes that can see nine more colors than human eyes can see, and has the world’s strongest punch (which it uses to subdue or kill its prey). All of these qualities make the mantis shrimp unusual. Therefore, you might choose to write three body paragraphs, each focused on one of these qualities. The topic sentence for each body paragraph will act as a supporting idea for the thesis statement.
Directions: Rhiannon, an environmental studies major, has created her first thesis statement. Read her scenario and then answer the questions that follow.
“My Sustainable Energy professor has assigned an essay that persuades readers of the benefits of one renewable resource. I asked him to review my thesis statement, and he thinks it’s a great start to my essay.”
Thesis Statement: Solar energy is not only the most reliable sustainable resource available, but its use could also lead to energy independence for the United States.
The subject of this thesis statement is .
What is the controlling idea of this thesis statement?
Solar energy
Energy independence
Is not only the most reliable sustainable resource available, but its use could also lead to energy independence for the United States
Directions: Curtis, a communications major, has some great ideas for his essay assignment, but he’s unsure how to begin. Read his scenario and then answer the question that follows.
“My Interpersonal Communications professor would like each student in the class to write an essay evaluating one form of expression that is not words. I’ve decided to write about body language. I’m just not sure how to compose my thesis statement.”
Which of the following sentences would make a good thesis statement for Curtis’s essay? Check all that apply.
Although we have been taught to read others’ faces for clues to their true feelings, the reality is that the face can be a person’s greatest shield.
People should not rely on nonverbal communication because it is subject to individual interpretation.
Body language is how to speak without using words.
Despite what we have been taught, body language is far more ambiguous about our feelings than it is specific.
Body language, both intentional and unintentional, can play a critical role in the health of personal relationships.
8 . Understanding Thesis Statements
Directions: Paulo, a kinesiology major, has created his first thesis statement. Read his scenario and then answer the questions that follow.
“My kinesiology professor has assigned an essay on physical fitness programs in elementary and high schools. I asked her to review my thesis statement, and she thinks it’s a great start to my essay.”
Thesis Statement: Physical education in primary and secondary schools is vital to both student health and academic achievement.
The subject of this thesis statement is .
What is the controlling idea of this thesis statement?
Is vital to both student health and academic achievement
Physical education
Primary and secondary schools
Directions: Paulette, a marketing major, has some great ideas for her essay assignment, but she’s unsure how to begin. Read her scenario and then answer the question that follows.
“My marketing professor would like each student in the class to write an essay on the most vital aspect of marketing. I’ve decided to write about Internet advertisements and why they reach more consumers than print ads. I’m just not sure how to compose my thesis statement.”
Which of the following sentences would make a good thesis statement for Paulette’s essay? Check all that apply.
E-mail, web banner, and social media advertising are the three delivery methods that make Internet advertising the most desirable choice for marketers.
In 2013, money earned from Internet advertisements increased 18% from 2012.
The Internet is the ultimate marketing tool because a variety of advertising formats can be utilized to reach the largest number of consumers.
Internet advertising is the most efficient form of marketing for several reasons.
Advertisements are important.
9 . Writing a Good Thesis Statement
A good thesis statement has certain characteristics. In a good thesis statement, the writer clearly defines his or her opinion on a subject, asserts one main idea, has something worthwhile to say, limits his or her subject and main idea to fit the assignment, and uses specific language. Many of your college essays will require a good thesis statement.
Here is a writing assignment for a composition class that requires a thesis statement:
Writing Prompt
Prepare to write an essay about a controversial issue. First, decide on a specific controversial issue. After you have investigated the topic, decide your own position. Write a thesis statement that expresses your position on your chosen issue; support your position in a 3 to 5 page essay.
Directions: The thesis statements that follow are in response to the writing prompt. In each group of three thesis statements, rank one “best,” one “better,” and one “poor.” You should rank the strongest thesis statement as “best,” the satisfactory to somewhat satisfactory thesis statement as “better,” and the worst thesis statement as “poor.” Then, answer the question that follows each group.
Thesis Statement
Rank
Some congressmen believe wind power, which receives billions a year in tax breaks, should continue to be supported.
Even though tax breaks for wind power cost billions a year, Congress should continue to support this source of clean energy.
The issue of tax breaks for certain types of energy has caused debate in Congress.
Why is the “best” thesis the best of the three?
This is the only thesis that defines the author’s opinion on the subject.
This is the only thesis that asserts one main idea.
This is the only thesis that uses specific language.
Thesis Statement
Rank
Even though it is typically more expensive, organic food offers many health and environmental benefits over its counterpart.
In this essay, I will argue that consumers should think about the value of organic food.
Even though they are more expensive, consumers should buy organic foods to avoid food additives.
Why is the “best” thesis the best of the three?
It is the only thesis that is limited to fit the assignment.
It is the only thesis that avoids cluttering expressions.
It is the only thesis statement that states the writer’s opinion on some subject.
9 . Writing a Good Thesis Statement
Thesis Statement
Rank
Even though First Amendment rights are treasured, some Americans are considering whether they are worth protecting when racially insensitive language incites violence.
Although the United States treasures its First Amendment rights, it must now censor racially insensitive language that can incite violence.
Many Americans believe that constitutional rights should be protected, no matter what.
Why is the “best” thesis the best of the three?
This is the only thesis that defines the author’s opinion on the subject.
This is the only thesis that asserts one main idea.
This is the only thesis that uses specific language.
Thesis Statement
Rank
Obesity-related illnesses annually cost Americans $150 billion, which is more than our massively indebted country can afford.
In my opinion, obesity-related illnesses can only be decreased by lowering the number of overweight people.
Obesity-related illnesses, which annually cost Americans $150 billion, should be curbed by banning oversized soda drinks.
Why is the “best” thesis the best of the three?
It is the only thesis that is limited to fit the assignment.
It is the only thesis that avoids cluttering expressions, such as “in my opinion” or “I believe.”
It is the only thesis statement that states the writer’s opinion on some subject.
9 . Writing a Good Thesis Statement
Many people believe NASA represents American innovation and drive for knowledge, while others consider it a waste of taxpayer dollars in a time of deepening economic debt.
Although some believe NASA is a luxury the United States cannot afford, in fact, the U.S. government must continue to fund NASA, a symbol of American innovation and thirst for knowledge.
The issue of continuing funding for space exploration evokes different feelings in people.
Why is the “best” thesis the best of the three?
This is the only thesis that defines the author’s opinion on the subject.
This is the only thesis that asserts one main idea.
This is the only thesis that uses specific language.
Thesis Statement
Rank
Although many Americans think of human trafficking as a part of its pre–Civil War past, in fact, it’s not and it should be stopped.
Human trafficking should be reduced, or even stopped, because, in my opinion, it is a criminal activity.
Our government should establish more organizations devoted solely to helping victims of human trafficking, the second fastest growing criminal industry in the United States.
Why is the “best” thesis the best of the three?
It is the only thesis that is limited to fit the assignment.
It is the only thesis that expresses one main idea.
It is the only thesis statement that states the writer’s opinion on some subject.
10 . Understanding Topic Sentences
Have you ever listened to someone speak and then asked, “What’s your point?” That desire to know the point is common to everyone, including the people who will read your writing. In a paragraph, the statement that expresses your main point is called a topic sentence.
A topic sentence contains two ingredients: (1) The subject that you’re writing about + (2) An opinion or idea about that subject. Here is an example of how these ingredients come together:
A Subject
An Opinion or Idea
A Topic Sentence
Dominican American poet Julia Alvarez
+
is one of the most important writers working today
=
Dominican American poet Julia Alvarez is one of the most important writers working today.
The opinion or idea in a topic sentence should be more than a simple fact like “Dominican American poet Julia Alvarez was born in 1950.” Simple facts don’t require much, if any, explanation, and therefore they don’t work well as topic sentences.
Also, remember that it’s usually best to put the topic sentence at the beginning of a paragraph, and to put the supporting ideas—ideas that explain or prove your topic sentence—after it. If you structure your paragraph this way, your readers will have a much easier time following your train of thought.
Directions: Using the information above, respond to each student’s concern.
“My teacher said that the topic sentence presents a main idea to readers, but I can’t remember what it is the main idea of. Do you know?”
What would you say to help this student?
A topic sentence presents the main idea of a paragraph to your readers.
A topic sentence presents the main idea of an essay to your readers.
“I have two ideas for a topic sentence. Which do you think works best?”
Which statement is the best topic sentence?
“College students can remain healthy during the school year by taking some simple precautions.”
“Many college students get sick during the school year.”
“I have an important writing assignment for my psychology class. I did some prewriting activities and figured out my topic sentences, but I can’t remember what needs to follow each one. What else should I include?”
What would you say to help this student?
Your topic sentences need to be followed by ideas that support it.
Just add in some interesting details about your topic, even if they do not support your topic sentence.
10 . Understanding Topic Sentences
“My teacher said that my paragraph needed a topic sentence, but I’m not sure what that is. Do you know?”
What would you say to help this student?
A topic sentence is a statement that supports the main point of a paragraph.
A topic sentence is a statement that tells the reader two things: (a) your subject and (b) your opinion or idea about that subject.
“I have two ideas for a topic sentence. Which do you think works best?”
Which statement is the best topic sentence?
“By 1959, Buddy Holly had recorded more than a dozen hit singles.”
“Although he died when he was only 22 years old, Buddy Holly was one of the best rock-and-roll musicians of all time.”
“I have an important writing assignment for my history class. I did some prewriting activities and figured out my topic sentence and the supporting ideas. What’s the best way to organize my paragraph?”
What would you say to help this student?
You can put your topic sentence anywhere you like. Dare to be creative!
It’s generally best to put the topic sentence first and the supporting ideas after it.
10 . Understanding Topic Sentences
“My teacher said that a topic sentence tells your reader two things, but I can’t remember what they are. Can you help me?”
What would you say to help this student?
A topic sentence tells your reader (a) your subject and (b) your opinion or idea about that subject.
A topic sentence tells your reader the main idea of the essay.
“I have two ideas for a topic sentence. Which do you think works best?”
Which statement is the best topic sentence?
“In 1903, Henry Ford established the Ford Motor Company.”
“Henry Ford, born in 1863, changed the course of the automobile industry like no other had done before.”
“I have an important writing assignment for my English class. I did some prewriting activities and figured out my topic sentence and the supporting ideas, but I can’t remember where my topic sentences go. Can you help me?”
What would you say to help this student?
You don’t need topic sentences. Just include as many interesting supporting ideas as you can find.
Your topic sentence is generally placed in the beginning of your paragraph, followed by your supporting ideas.
11 . Developing Strong Topic Sentences
A topic sentence must be tightly focused. A vague, fuzzy, or unfocused topic sentence most often leads to a paragraph that touches only on the surface of its subject or that wanders away from the main idea of the essay.
Directions: Read the thesis statement. Then, choose the best revision for the topic sentence that relates to the thesis statement.
Thesis Statement: The effects of stress are more than just a temporary foul mood and a sudden craving for junk food; stress over a long period creates damage to the body from our organs to our cells.
Topic sentence: Chronic stress weakens the immune system, and some researchers think that it also causes the metabolism to go into overdrive.
What is the best revision for this topic sentence?
Chronic stress weakens the body’s immune system.
Researchers say stress has negative effects on metabolism and the immune system.
High stress levels can have bad effects on our immune system and metabolism.
Answer the following questions:
Which of the following make good topic sentences? Check all that apply.
Astronaut Valentina Tereshkova was born on March 6, 1937.
Astronaut Valentina Tereshkova was a dedicated and determined person.
Astronaut Valentina Tereshkova is a terrific role model for women.
Astronaut Valentina Tereshkova was the first woman in space.
11 . Developing Strong Topic Sentences
Thesis Statement: Economic sanctions are the best way for the United States to force countries to stop creating weapons of mass destruction.
Topic sentence: Limiting or even blocking trade makes building difficult for countries.
What is the best revision for this topic sentence?
Limiting or even blocking trade makes it difficult for countries to continue illicit activities.
Economic sanctions make it tricky for countries to build weapons.
Economic sanctions that limit or even block trade make it difficult for countries to continue illicit weapon building.
Answer the following questions:
Which of the following make good topic sentences? Check all that apply.
Athlete Fauja Singh ran a marathon when he was 100 years old.
Athlete Fauja Singh finished his marathon in 8 hours, 25 minutes, and 16 seconds.
Athlete Fauja Singh is a brave and determined athlete.
Athlete Fauja Singh is an inspiration to elderly people around the world.
11 . Developing Strong Topic Sentences
Thesis Statement: Although some college mascots seem inexplicable, the names of college mascots have intriguing origin stories that reveal the history and culture of the school.
Topic sentence: Some schools don't even have real mascots.
What is the best revision for this topic sentence?
Some universities have an abstract mascot, such as a "Crimson Tide," rather than an animal.
Auburn University doesn't even have real mascots.
The "Crimson Tide," the mascot of Auburn University, isn't even a real thing.
Answer the following questions:
Which of the following make good topic sentences? Check all that apply.
Mark Zuckerberg founded a website called Facebook.
Mark Zuckerberg attended Harvard University but did not graduate.
Mark Zuckerberg became a billionaire through resourcefulness and creativity.
Mark Zuckerberg's success has motivated many aspiring business owners.
12 . Using Topic Sentences to Support a Thesis
Each body paragraph in your essay will express one main point in the topic sentence. The topic sentence has three important functions: (1) it supports the thesis by clearly stating a main point in the discussion; (2) it announces what the paragraph will be about; and (3) it controls the subject matter of the paragraph. The entire discussion—the examples, details, and explanations—in a particular paragraph must directly relate to and support the topic sentence.
Directions: Read each of the thesis statements. Then, select which are topic sentences that support the thesis.
Thesis: Although enrolling in online courses is increasing in popularity, it can never take the place of attending a college with a physical campus.
Which are topic sentences that support the thesis sentence? Check all that apply.
Only by attending a traditional college can students participate in activities that build a sense of companionship.
Going away to college gives students the opportunity to discover their passion.
According to U.S. News and World Report, 63% of students attend a particular college based on its academic reputation.
Students who go to college have far more opportunities to have meaningful, face-to-face interactions with their peers and instructors.
Thesis: Even though job hopping—staying at a job for two years or less—is on the rise, staying with one company is better for your career and your self-improvement.
Which are topic sentences that support the thesis sentence? Check all that apply.
Forbes contributor Jeanne Meister calls job hopping "the new black."
Staying long term at one company gives a feeling of stability.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average American will have about nine jobs between the ages of eighteen and thirty-two.
Unlike job hoppers, long-term employees often enjoy greater retirement funds.
12 . Using Topic Sentences to Support a Thesis
Thesis: College majors in the sciences or engineering are most worth a student's time and money.
Which are topic sentences that support the thesis sentence? Check all that apply.
A degree in engineering can lead to a career in which you are engaged in fun, problem-solving tasks.
Instead of having their résumés ignored, many science majors are being hired immediately after graduation.
In addition to being in demand, science and engineering majors typically enjoy a high starting salary.
Majors in educational administration and supervision have the lowest unemployment rate.
Thesis: All states should legalize involuntary treatment for prescription drug abuse.
Which are topic sentences that support the thesis sentence? Check all that apply.
In the United States, someone dies of a prescription drug overdose every 19 minutes.
Many states that have legalized involuntary treatment for prescription drug abuse have had success.
Often, those who suffer from drug abuse addiction must get treatment because they are a danger to themselves and others.
One wife whose husband is addicted to painkillers worries, "I just know I'm going to come home one day to find him dead."
12 . Using Topic Sentences to Support a Thesis
Thesis: Although often resulting in smaller salaries, degrees in the humanities lead to high levels of life satisfaction.
Which are topic sentences that support the thesis sentence? Check all that apply.
While in college Steve Jobs dropped in on a humanities course, art history, which he later said was important to his development of the Mac's typefaces.
Students who have degrees in the humanities have sophisticated reading and writing skills, which give them a strong sense of self-worth.
Another reason for humanities students' high satisfaction is that they continue to take pleasure in art, literature, and music well after graduation.
Indeed, many humanities students do not expect to gain satisfaction from a high starting salary; rather, they are satisfied because they are pursuing a passion.
Thesis: States that use water from the Colorado River Basin must adopt and enforce more water restrictions.
Which are topic sentences that support the thesis sentence? Check all that apply.
In 1922, the Colorado River region had a period of extremely heavy rain.
When describing the future of water supplies from the Colorado River, engineer Ernest Smerdon said, "That's not a happy picture."
Rising populations in Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, Utah, and New Mexico have been draining the Colorado River Basin at an unreasonable rate.
Climate experts predict that droughts in the Colorado River Basin area will become longer, more severe, and more frequent, making it even more critical to take greater measures to conserve water.
