3.14 Evaluating Arguments

CONNECTION We have done a lot of evaluating of arguments in writing. You will need to draw on that to plan for your debate.

TEACHING POINT Today I want to remind you that when you read to evaluate arguments, you need to read skeptically. It’s the author’s job to convince you of the validity of the argument, and once you understand the argument being made, you need to go back to evaluate whether or not it’s convincing.

TEACHING First, read to understand. Then read to see if you agree—read skeptically. Person A: Washing a dog isn’t easy. A lot of people might see someone washing a dog and think that it looks easy, but really, if you try it, you’ll see that it’s way harder than it looks. All those people who say that washing a dog is easy should really try it and then they’ll see that it’s hard. Person B: Washing a dog isn’t easy. First, you have to spend some time teaching your dog to get used to the bathtub. If you spend time slowly getting your dog ready, your dog will find bath time less scary. It may take you a few training sessions before your dog is used to the tub. Once you are ready for the bath, you’ll want to get your dog very wet. Be careful not to get the inside of your dog’s ears we, says the ASPCA. Water that gets trapped in a dog’s ears could lead to an infection. You also have to be very careful not to get water or shampoo into your dog’s eyes or mouth. So, you can soap your dog from the neck down and then rinse. Because your dog’s fur is thick, it takes time to make sure all the shampoo is rinsed out. If you leave any shampoo on your dog, your dog could get itchy. After shampoo, you can rub in conditioner and after the bath, you will need to make sure you completely dry your dog off. While it may be the case that over time, you can find giving your dog a bath easier and easier, it is something tricky to do at first. Which argument is more convincing? Why? Turn and Talk.

HOMEWORK You are debating tomorrow. Write down: Your argument Your reasons Your evidence What you think the other person will say (counterargument) How you will respond (your rebuttal)