The reading
from Praxis this week covered a
variety of topics to help the readers write rhetorically. The chapter starts off by entering the
conversation through writing and responding to rhetorical situations. To be an effective rhetorician, create a dialogue
or conversation. “It was through
dialogue that rhetoricians such as Aristotle, Isocrates, and Cicero taught
their students rhetoric skills” (Praxis
164). Today, a rhetorical text can be
responding to ideas that have been presented, using paraphrases and quotes from
other compositions to strengthen their argument. People respond to rhetorical situations
without even realizing it; responding to a simple text message from a friend to
get dinner exemplifies this. A rhetor
uses words to alter reality by engaging an audience and persuading the audience
to make a change.
The OpEd
Project gives a way of approaching a rhetorical paper. To start, the author should include a hook to
get the reader invested in the concepts.
A thesis must be clearly stated to address the argument that is either
explicit or implied. Next, the author
must write about the argument based on evidence, such as news, reports from
credible organizations, expert quotes, history, and articles. Each point should have more than one piece of
evidence and a conclusion that can end the paragraph with a lead into the following
paragraph.
A research-based
argument utilizes skills the author has accumulated over time. The argument in the paper is an ongoing
conversation on the topic carried on by research sources. Some sources will agree with each other, and
others may oppose the idea. Paraphrasing
and quoting sources can change the stance on the issue written about. The goal of a research-based argument is
persuasion. The introduction should
clearly state the author’s position on the issue. Typically, academic research-based arguments
rely on logos – reasoning and evidence – as the primary appeal.
“A research
paper, by definition, makes use of source materials to make an argument” (Praxis 202). It is important that the argument is carried
in the own words of author while incorporating quotes and paraphrases from
source material to support the argument.
“After you have attracted the interest of your audience, established
your thesis, and given background information and definitions you will next
begin to give reasons for your position, which further develops your argument”
(Praxis 203). The reasons need to be supported by reliable
and valid evidence. The author must
include the opposing arguments because it is important to anticipate the
audience’s possible questions or objections.
The author must also vary their strategies or patterns of development,
as well as including effective transitions.
As you said, this week’s reading from Praxis covered numerous different topics, all of which are exceptionally important when writing various papers. In my opinion the most important section from the reading is “The Research-Based Argument Essay.” Over the course of the semester we have written a variety of essays, however none have been like this. Research-based argument papers are often used to persuade; therefore, they should begin with a clear position on an issue. In order to make these papers more persuasive, the use of ethos, logos, and pathos may be necessary. I think it is important to note, however, that the use of such is simply encouraged, however not necessary. More often than not, logos is used without necessarily intending to do so.
ReplyDeleteOne thing I found interesting, that was not mentioned, was the different ways to structure an argumentative essay. I feel as though I have never considered the different ways to go about laying out my thoughts. Praxis mentioned three different models in the reading for this week; of the three, my favorite was the Toulmin model. This model is structured into six elements, all of which help to lay out the main points that need to be discussed and additionally it helps to show both viewpoints. In addition to this model, there is also the Rogerian argument, and the general modern format. The Rogerian Argument aims to find a common ground between two sides of an argument whereas the modern format simply suggests writing the essay in a five paragraph format. Overall, I think it is beneficial for there to be options for the writer, as different individuals enjoy writing in different ways.