Assignment 2.2
Due Date: Wednesday, March 2, 2005
In this assignment, you will now articulate your stance on the issue that you described in Assignment 2.1, focusing on characteristics of effective argumentation. In a paper of approximately 350 words, you should describe where you stand in relation to this controversy. A successful essay will argue for a solution to this controversy, employing a combination of Aristotle's rhetorical strategies: pathos, ethos, and especially logos (hard evidence and rational arguments). A successful essay will also show awareness of current public discourse on this issue, by incorporating research, facts, or quotations for other sources. As you research the issue, consider questions such as: Do you align yourself with the opinion of a particular group? What do you find adequate or inadequate in the way this issue has been discussed in public forums, such as the opinion sections of newspapers?
You should also choose the audience to which you are directing your argument. For example, you could choose:
- A Letter to the Editor submitted to either a local or national newspaper
- A letter addressed to a public official who has decision-making power regarding this issue (e.g. a senator, congressman, chair of a congressional committee, President Bush, or any other relevant political figure)
- A comment responding to someone’s blog entry regarding this issue