Saturday, May 9, 2015

Academic Arguments

I found this week’s readings very helpful. I think there is something in each one I will look back on as I write future papers. In “Academic Arguments” I realized the importance of using Logos and backing it with research. I usually write more using Pathos, so it will be important for me to keep that in mind. I found the step-by-step techniques in the section, “Developing an Academic Argument” to be extremely helpful and will keep this close at hand.
“So What? Who Cares?” showed me to emphasize the importance and relevance of the points I write about. I also found the examples to be very helpful. I liked the part that explained,” when you explain who cares and why, it’s a little like bringing a cheerleading squad into your text.” (p.100)
In “Shitty First Drafts” I gleaned a lot from the author sharing the struggles she has when faced with writing and the ways she recommends overcoming them. I am not one to write a lot of drafts, but after reading this I just my give her way a try, plus that is how Zack has this class set up.
“Arguable Assertions” gave a good example of what evidence and claims are and the importance of interpreting the evidence and supporting your claims.

Overall I felt these readings will be helpful in many ways when I start to write the paper for this class.