2.  Students will construct logical, well-reasoned arguments in writing.  Students will identify and use credible primary and secondary sources to support arguments.  Students will correctly cite and reference works on a works cited page.  Students will differentiate between and utilize direct quotation and paraphrasing effectively.  Students will review and continue to master parts of speech, complete sentences, and agreement.  Students will understand commonly misused words and learn to use them correctly.

3.  Introduction with attention grabber and thesis.  At least 3 valid, logical reasons for the position supported by facts and statistics.  Refute (disprove) counter-arguments (opposing positions)  Conclusion that summarizes key points and has a strong final thought.

4.  Paragraph 1: Introduction  Paragraph 2: 2 nd Strongest main point to support your thesis.  Paragraph 3: Weakest main point to support your thesis.  Paragraph 4: Strongest, most convincing point of your argument.  Paragraph 5: Explain and refute counter-arguments with facts and statistics.  Paragraph 6: Conclusion / Call to Action  VARIATIONS: Paragraph 5 can be moved to paragraph 2 if you would prefer. Remember your point in addressing counter-arguments is to DISPROVE them, not make a better case.

5.  BEWARE THE LOGICAL FALLACIES!  Logical fallacies can be convincing, but do not necessarily result in truth.  Political ads are full of logical fallacies as are the debates we have watched between presidential candidates.  We will study a few of these each day.

6.  Problem / Solution essays are also persuasive in nature, though they approach the process differently and must be organized differently.  The Problem  Describe the nature or the problem and its degree of seriousness.  Describe what causes the problem.  Describe what will happen if the problem isn’t solved.  The Proposal  Describe the proposal or solution.  Explain the way this solution could be implemented and provide evidence that supports the effectiveness of the solution(s).  Discuss possible objections to your proposal and attempt to show how these objections can be answered.