JUNIORS EMBEDDED ASSESSMENT 2

SWBAT pick a topic for their argumentative essay DO NOW: GET READY FOR QUIZ! If you finish early, walk your quiz up to me and start reading and answering questions on page 91 of SpringBoard REMINDERS UNIT TEST IS FRIDAY If you are absent, you have to make it up Tuesday, or risk receiving a zero!

LOOKING AT THE QUESTION Your assignment is to synthesize at least three to five sources and your own observations to defend, challenge, or qualify the statement that America still provides access to the American Dream, to the “tired, the poor, and the huddled masses.” This question requires you to integrate a variety of sources (3–5) into a coherent, well-written argumentative essay. Be sure to refer to the sources and employ your own observations to support your position. Your argument should be central; the sources and your observations should support this argument.

PLANNING OUT YOUR IDEAS In a synthesis essay, it is paramount to define important terms at the beginning of your text. In the case of this prompt, the definition you create becomes a vehicle for establishing your thesis. Consider defining important terms using the following ideas. GO TO PAGE 91 IN SPRINGBOARD

Define by Function (What does the “American Dream” do?): The American Dream offers hope to all people regardless of their backgrounds. The American Dream gives everyone an opportunity to be successful.

Define by Classification (What groups belong to or have access to the “American Dream”?): Everyone has access to the American Dream. The American Dream is a term that refers to the promise given to those new to our country

Define by Example (What are some examples of the “American Dream”?): My grandfather, who came from Italy and started his own business in New York, is the American Dream. Bill Gates is an example of the American Dream.

Define by Negation (What the “American Dream” is not): The American Dream is not for everyone. The American Dream is not a quest for self-knowledge. The American Dream does not manifest itself in those who do not work hard.

DECIDE ON YOUR POSITION Are you going to… DEFEND? CHALLENGE? Once you have made a decision. I want you to free write on a piece of paper that you will be handing in. 1. Why do you feel this way? Don’t write because I do. Really state a good opinion (2 points) 2. Have the readings we have done in Unit 1 changed your original point of view on the idea of the American Dream? In what way, or if you feel the same way, what readings stick out the most as you look back on the unit? (2 points)