Created
by Tina L.Thomen
~Introduction ~
To begin
our discussion about ORGANIZATION in writing, we will study a classic debate
about the freedom of speech, especially as it pertains to students who publish
high school newsletters. As effective
persuasive writers, we must hone our abilities to analyze multiple points of
view. As background, recall the language
of the First Amendment to the
Congress shall make no law
respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise
thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of
the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress
of grievances.
(From
<http://www.firstamendmentcenter.org/about.aspx?item=about_firstamd>)
~ Information Needed for Today’s Activity~
Organization, rhetorical
language skills, and logical reasoning uniquely frame our persuasive
writing. Today, we will study
perspectives from many angles that surround the debate over whether high school
administrators should censor student publications. Many American citizens agree that obscene
language should be banned. But many
disagree about whether other controversial subjects such as religious views
belong in a student publication. By
reviewing several websites, complete the following activity to understand how
writers organize the many sides of this issue.
~ Activity ~
All of the websites
listed in the chart below address the issue of censorship in high school
student publications. Some articles
advocate for more freedoms, some caution against irresponsible free speech, and
other selections remain more neutral.
Not all of these examples contain a persuasive purpose or organizational
structure.
As you read the websites
listed below, complete the rubric to analyze elements of persuasive
writing. After you finish analyzing the
articles, total the points in each row.
Use the following scale:
4 = Excellent, 3 =
Good, 2 = Satisfactory, 1 = Needs Improvement, 0 = Non-existent
Persuasive Writing Rubric
|
NAME of WEBSITE |
INTRO & TITLE:
The introduction is inviting, states the main topic, and previews the organization
of the paper; the title is original and captures central theme of the
piece. |
ACCURACY & PACING of DETAILS: All supporting
facts are reported accurately; writer elaborates about significant facts. |
SEQUENCING & TRANSITIONS: Details are
placed in a logical order and the way they are presented effectively keeps
the interest of the reader; transition words show how ideas connect. |
CONCLUSION: The conclusion is strong and leaves the
reader with a feeling that they understand what the writer is arguing for,
providing a sense of closure and resolution. |
COMMITMENT to AUDIENCE & PURPOSE: The writer
successfully uses several reasons/appeals that flow smoothly, helping the
reader to care or want to know more about the topic. |
TOTAL |
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