Quarter 3

 

1. Overview                                                                                                                                                                          In Quarter 3, we learned how to analyze an argument and identify persuasive techniques. For instance, Bandwagon appeal, emotional appeals, appeal to values, and word choice are all persuasive techniques that make an argument stronger. Rhetorical devices are also considered persuasive techniques, such as the uses of repetition and parallelism. We also learned the effectiveness of persuading using stories. We created position essays using Anna Quindlen’s “Doing Nothing is Something” (article) and Peter Gray’s “The Decline of Play” (TedTalk presentation). Then went into the analysis of Carl Sagan’s argument in his speech “Nuclear Disarmament”. We also did an online discussion posting on genetically modified pets (hot to formulate constructive peer feedback in digital spaces). Last but not least, we have created a blog posting using persuasive story.

 

II. How am I persuaded?

 

I am often persuaded by the use of an engaging story, strong word choice, and relevant facts. These things make us agree with, since it provide audience with interesting story. For example, I was engaged in the story of Greenland melting because they writer used emotional appeals, explaining that effects on animals.  

 

II. Strength and Weakness

 

After looking at both my beginning of the year and middle of the year writing assessments, I was happy to see that  I have improved. My strength is often in my content. I’m always on topic and give ample amounts of reasons and examples. However, my weakness is in grammar. I need to make sure that I edit my work properly, which I often can’t  in timed writing assignments. To improve, I need to go through Ms. Kelly’s feedback and learn from it. That will improve my writing skill and also take less time on editing.

 

III. Evidence of Work