Project Assignment
Goal
Chapter 7 focuses on developing your skills when writing longer texts. The goal of this project is to combine what you've learned about critical reading, thinking, and writing by drafting two paragraphs from opposing perspectives.
Directions
Part 1
Choose a topic that you feel is relevant. Here are some suggestions:
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Climate change
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Democracy
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Identity
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Free speech
Once you've chosen a general topic, try to narrow it down.
Part 2
After choosing a narrowed topic, find two articles that discuss it from opposing sides.
Part 3
For each article, write a paragraph that summarizes and fairly explains the author's perspective and opinion, even if you don't agree with it.
Materials
Word processing program or paper and writing tool
Two articles with opposing viewpoints on the same topic
Checklist
Writing Assignment
Goal
The goal of this assignment is to build on your work from the project assignment. You will use the two paragraphs you wrote to write an essay that expresses your own point of view on the topic.
Directions
Part 1
Review the articles and your paragraphs from the project assignment.
Part 2
Determine your position on the topic by reflecting on it and brainstorming.
Part 3
Create an outline that organizes your ideas and references. The outline should allow for an introduction, conclusion, and two or more body paragraphs.
Part 4
Using your outline, write a rough draft of an essay with four or more paragraphs. Make sure you take a side and your opinion is clearly stated. Be sure to reference each article you read at least once. You may agree or disagree with the authors. In addition to at least two body paragraphs, include an introduction and conclusion.
Part 5
Exchange essays with a classmate and perform a peer review.
Part 6
Consider your reviewer's feedback as you write the final draft of your essay.
Part 7
Submit your final draft to your instructor.
Materials
The two articles and two paragraphs from the project assignment
Word processing program
Checklist