Assignments

1. Argument to Advance a Thesis: Review the way Stefan Casso supports a clearly stated and controversial thesis in “Worth the Lie”. Then write an argument that similarly provides direct support for a controversial claim in the public sphere — one that has implications for other people. Like Casso, take the time to explain the issue you are addressing and then try to offer multiple reasons to support your thesis.
2. Refutation Argument: Find a text with which you strongly disagree and then systematically refute it, as Bjørn Lomborg does in “The Limits of Panic”. The text can be a position or policy promoted by a politician or public or corporate official, or it can be an argument in itself — a column, an editorial, or even a section in a textbook. Make your opposition clear, but also be fair to the position you are attempting to refute. It is especially important that your readers be able to understand whatever you are analyzing, even if they aren’t familiar with it. That’s a real challenge, so don’t hesitate to summarize, paraphrase, or quote from the material.
3. Visual Argument: Study the way Matt Bors incorporates a wide range of persuasive devices in his visual argument; he uses everything from direct quotations to stereotypes. Like many visual arguments, his piece combines images and words to make a point. Create a visual argument of your own using whatever medium you believe will convey your message most powerfully. Start with a clear point in mind (“Stop hating on Millennials!”). Then figure out how to present your claim memorably.
4. Your Choice: These days, most serious arguments explode across interactive online environments, where they often take on a life of their own. Working with a group, design a media project (blog, Web site, mash-up, video, etc.) to focus on an issue that members of your group believe deserves more attention. Pool your talents to develop the site technically, rhetorically, and visually. Be sure your project introduces the subject, explains its purpose, encourages interaction, and includes relevant images and, if possible, links.