Describe demonstrating proficiency in dealing with complex, contradicting information by showing your audience that although you may disagree with its position, you still can see some value in its ideas and/or you are willing to listen and learn from your audience members.

Two recommended databases:

Audience and Purpose: The goal for writing your paper is not to convince your audience he/she/they is/are wrong. (Do you recall when we talked about thesis statements, we emphasized to each other that a strong argument is not one where the writer lectures her audience or takes the “I-win-you-lose” position.) Instead, your goal is to engage in a fair, honest, and intellectually rigorous conversation so ultimately your audience at the end of your paper will think, “Well, I disagree with you but I will not dismiss you because you brought up so important ideas”).

Recommended Outline:

Grade Evaluation:
You will be heavily evaluated and commented on the following:
1. crafting an engaging opening (using any of the opening strategies we reviewed in class) that helps frame the argument;
2. producing a narrowed, single-focused thesis that establishes your claim (argument);
3. successfully integrating outside sources with proper signal phrases and parenthetical citation and fully conversing with your sources stating why you agree or disagree as you develop your thesis;
4. anticipating the skeptical reader (naysayer), engaging him or her in a rich dialogue;
5. providing concrete and specific examples to demonstrate your point as you develop your argument;
6. showing awareness of your audience (its values, views, and beliefs) by using language, tone, examples, and data your audience members would understand and find credible;
7. demonstrating proficiency in dealing with complex, contradicting information by showing your audience that although you may disagree with its position, you still can see some value in its ideas and/or you are willing to listen and learn from your audience members.