Step 2: Put the Texts in Conversation

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Now that you’ve analyzed the sources individually, imagine that you are putting them in a room together. Assume each author has read the others’ work. As you imagine this encounter, try to write in the voice of each author—get into character. And remember: you’re reporting what they say to each other, not personally commenting or responding.

What questions would they ask one another? How would one respond to the other? You might generate questions by asking yourself where one writer would take issue with another. It’s easy to see, for instance, that Allenby would disagree with Bergland in fundamental ways, so there’s no point in setting up a dialogue in which Allenby asks, “What do you think of PEDs?” But, it might be interesting for Allenby to ask Bergland, “Isn’t your view of the connection between sports and well-being unrealistic when it comes to spectator sports involving huge amounts of money?”

Question from Klosterman to Bergland:___________.

Bergland’s Response:___________.

Question from Allenby to Klosterman:____________.

Klosterman’s Response:___________.

Question from Bergland to Allenby:______________.

Allenby’s Response:____________.