"All of the prompts in English classes are always about some important issue of the day, such as freedom of speech, media violence, body image, or the war in Iraq/Afghanistan. I see why this is, but I propose that a truer test of a students ability to read and understand a piece and create logical and well-reasoned arguments might be to hand them essays on completely idiotic topics, like who would win a deathmatch between Jesse James and Al Capone, and see if they can isolate the author’s arguments, agree or disagree based solely on evidence (since this is so stupid that it’s unlikely they have a prior opinion on it), and construct their own argument to support their position. This would also make the essays more fun to read for the teacher!"
(The preceding post has been brought to you by Rosemary, who, unashamedly stole it from Trisdan...)
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ReplyDeleteKing Freddy said...
ReplyDeleteI think that is a great idea! Not only would that provide a refreshing approach for the student to find their bearings in the world of argumentative essays, but it could also make the tutoring experience more dynamic and exciting.
However, knowing students, they might be inclined to discredit the importance of writing a serious well thought out essay, in lieu of having to pick a part such nonsensical arguments. If we can effectively explain the overall intention behind the assignments, than perhaps they will be more inclined to participate willingly. (ha ha)
Either way I think it would be a good exercise to try out and see how the students respond. Perhaps there is some sort of balance to be reached between idiotic argument analysis and assignments weighted on more contemporary issues.
I thought I was the only one tired of reading about the pros and cons of abortion and the legalization of marijuana! I think that’s an interesting way to not only to teach students to write well, but also for them to learn how to formulate their own ways and then articulate them as well. However, this might be a bit difficult for those students who are ESL students and those students who are still working towards English 1A and 1C.
ReplyDeleteI think this would be a great exercise for an English 1A or 1C class. Sometimes we need to think outside the box in order to streatch and strengthen our writing abilities. Without ture challenge there can be no growth.
ReplyDelete