In this class, we will practice the art of argumentation using the Toulmin model. Our texts will be short written works, advertisements, movies, posters, novels, and critical essays about literature.  We will also practice oral argumentation and presentation; to that end, students will engage in 4 formal debates on topical issues, and work collaboratively on two oral presentations.  Students will use critical thinking, reading, and writing to evaluate, analyze, and interpret the themes we discuss.  They will also complete a research project consisting of several components, including synthesis of material from scholarly sources and an annotated bibliography.   

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Syllabus