Analysis of a Visual Text
Goal: Students will examine a visual text, interpret its meaning, and develop an argument in which their ideas about the image are developed by serious examination of ideas about images in one or more of the essays they have read. The purpose of this assignment is to further develop students’ analytical skills by considering different types of texts in conjunction. This assignment may stand alone or be combined with one of the other strategies into a larger assignment.
Analysis of a Written Text
Goal: Students will closely analyze a text, consider the relationship between what is said (the argument being made/ the thesis) and how it is said (rhetorical strategy, tone and stance, audience, language), evaluate the value of the ideas, and develop an argument about the relationship of content to form based on this judgment. The purpose of this assignment is for students to further develop their reading and analytical skills and to construct an argument based on their observations. Again, this assignment can stand alone or be combined with one of the other strategies into a larger assignment.
Persuasion
Goal: Students will write a paper taking a position on an issue, with the focus on developing a persuasive argument. The purpose of this assignment is to develop students’ ability to construct a convincing argument and use textual material in support of that argument. Part of this process should include the consideration of a perspective (or perspectives) different from the student’s own. Again, this assignment can stand alone or be combined with one of the other strategies into a larger assignment.
Research
Goal: Students will develop a researched argument paper, going beyond the text essays and finding at least two or three outside sources of different types to connect with their position. They will be required to acknowledge and evaluate differing opinions in their essay. The purpose of this assignment is to prepare students for the type of research writing they will be expected to do in their classes, using outside sources and the full range of research writing techniques. Again, this assignment can stand alone or be combined with one of the other strategies into a larger assignment.