Adventures in Arguing 101 AP Language

Journal Entry Write at least a paragraph responding to the following quote by American essayist and social critic H. L. Mencken (1880– 1956): “The average man does not want to be free. He simply wants to be safe.”

The Steps -Read the prompt. You must summarize the author’s argument. -Brainstorm for both sides. Rank arguments. Strongest to weakest. -Create a thesis [that has something in it that you can prove and shows that you understand that the issue is complex.] -Make a brief outline. You should have at least 3 body paragraphs. Go from weakest to strongest. Make strong connections. -Intro needs to get the reader’s attention. Then hit him in the nose with your thesis. The rest is an organized attack. The more ideas, the better -Body paragraphs must be TIEA - Conclusion is like the grand-finale – it better be something that the reader won’t forget.

1. READ THE PROMPT 2011 AP ® ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION FREE-RESPONSE QUESTIONS (Form B) © 2011 The College Board. Visit the College Board on the Web: Question 3 (Suggested time—40 minutes. This question counts for one- third of the total essay section score.) American essayist and social critic H. L. Mencken (1880– 1956) wrote, “The average man does not want to be free. He simply wants to be safe.” In a well-written essay, examine the extent to which Mencken’s observation applies to contemporary society, supporting your position with appropriate evidence.

2. BRAINSTORM FOR BOTH SIDES FreeSafe

3. Create a Thesis Although ______________(1)______________, ________________(2)__________________. (1)Counterargument (2)Your Claim YOU MUST TAKE A SIDE!

ATO ATO = Address the Opposition You must allow for intelligent people who think differently than you do. Even though you firmly support one side, why could smart people believe differently than you do? Without an ATO you will get no better than a 5.

4. Brief Outline You should have at least 2 body paragraphs [I prefer 3, but 2 beefier paragraphs are better than 3 starved ones]. Go from weakest to strongest. Make strong connections.

5. Intro Start with a HOOK or your ATO ATO = Address the Opposition [If you are running out of time, just start with your thesis. ] AVOID Rhetorical Questions

6. Body Paragraph Your example should prove your thesis. In a convincing manner, show how this specific concrete instance incarnates your argument. INCARNATE IT! [Put Flesh on It.]

7. Conclusion YOU MUST: Re-state your thesis, although you may do so in a creative way. YOU SHOULD: Connect to the larger thematic connection. If people prefer safety over freedom, what implications has that had on humanity? YOU MUST NOT: 1). Skip your conclusion because you don’t have enough time 2.) Contradict your claim