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To the Point: Reading and Writing Short Arguments, as its title implies, provides a no-nonsense guide for analyzing and composing argumentative texts. Divided into six parts, the text proceeds inductively from an overview of reading and writing arguments to specific instruction for preparing original arguments in a variety of forms. Guided by the dual aims of familiarizing readers with the skills for both analyzing and composing arguments, the text also focuses on improving critical-thinking skills through the use of chapter questions and discussions.
The material included in To the Point is divided into six parts that can be adapted for either a linear or recursive classroom presentation. In addition, the material in Parts 2 through 5 can be arranged by the three major types of arguments included—Pro/Con, Mediated, and Classical—or through rhetorical patterns of development. Although the text allows versatility for presentation, Part 1 should be the initial focus of the course, since it provides an overview of reading and composing text, introduces the major argumentative paradigms, and stresses the elements of the writing process. In short, Part 1 prepares students to analyze the arguments of others and to compose arguments of their own.
A brief synopsis of the six parts of the text reveals its versatility:
Part 1: An Overview: Critical Thinking and Argumentation
Chapter 1: Reading Arguments
Chapter 2: Writing Arguments
Chapter 3: Patterns of Argument
Part 2: Contemporary Debates
Chapter 4: Rap Culture
Chapter 5: College Sports
Chapter 6: Animal Rights
Chapter 7: Immigration
Chapter 8: Affirmative Action
Chapter 9: The Death Penalty
Part 3: Perspectives on Critical Issues
Chapter 10: The Internet
Chapter 11: Work, Money, Class
Chapter 12: The Media
Chapter 13: Education
Chapter 14: The Environment
Chapter 15: Human Rights
Chapter 16: Terrorism
Part 4: Five Classical Arguments
"The Allegory of the Cave," Plato
"A Modest Proposal," Swift
"Professions for Women," Woolf
"The Obligation to Endure," Carson
"I Have a Dream," King
Part 5: A Casebook of Arguments on Americans' Eating Habits: Are We What We Eat?
"We're Fatter but Not Smarter," Brownlee
"Don't Blame the Eater," Zinczenko
"Diet for Stress," Comedy Central, Jokes.com
"The McNugget of Truth in Lawsuits Against Fast-Food Restaurants," Cohen
"McGriddles Breakfast Sandwiches," McDonald's USA
"The Fat Tax: A Modest Proposal," Rauch
"Trick or Treat," Chast
"The Body of the Beholder," Ingrassia
Cover, Self Magazine, April 2003
"The Joy of Eating," Walljasper
Weight Loss Guide
"The Culture of Thin Bites Fiji," Goodman
"Waifs on the Web," Mackeen
Part 6: Constructing a Brief Argumentative Research Paper
In addition to instructional material, To the Point provides models of contemporary and classical arguments that model the types of development under consideration. Readings that focus on high-interest topics cover a range of difficulty, most of which should be accessible to a wide range of student abilities. Numerous exercises and suggested writing assignments provide practice to develop analytical and compositional skills.
Alternate versions of a 15-week syllabus using this material are included. One is arranged by the major types of arguments under consideration; the second, by rhetorical patterns of development. Each syllabus includes in-class exercises as well as suggested writing assignments. While only suggested as guides, these syllabi can be individualized to the instructor's needs and preferences.
Additionally, a Web Resources file is available that includes Internet sites related to three primary areas: Writing and Grammar, Style Guides, and Professional Organizations and Resources. While the first two are primarily intended for students' use, some of the sites also include an Instructors' Resources section that provides both teaching tips and classroom exercises. The Professional Organizations and Resources listings provide locations where information concerning professional development is available. Specific details as wide-ranging as conference notices, calls for papers, discussion boards, and position vacancies are included. Finally, pedagogical tips and classroom exercises can be downloaded for personal use.
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