How to Win an Argument: Learn the 'Secret Sauce' and Improve Your Writing
Mara Simmons
Average rating:5.0Number of reviews:(4)
This introductory session will share with learners an argumentative approach that they can apply to writing tasks and debates to improve the overall quality of their written and oral skills using evidence and claims.
Class experience
US Grade 6 - 9
In this introductory session we will learn how to construct evidence based arguments that can be used in almost any written task situation. The class will be very interactive and learners will be able to practice their debate skills. The class will first choose a common topic for us to engage in. The topics may include: Graffiti- is it art or vandalism? Should the Supreme Court Justices have term limits? Do Memes Make the Internet a Better Place? Once we have a topic we will do some...
Students will learn the basics of the Toulmin Argumentative Method and some may recognize all the different kinds of prompts that they can apply this method to in the future. Students will also practice listening skills as we discuss the topic.
I have taught this topic for more than fifteen years to all ages including 4th graders through adults. Since we are dealing with arguments and debate it will be important for students to practice their listening skills and focus on the topic at hand. In the class discussions I will set up specific parameters and be clear about the ground rules so that the arguments are about the topic and not to be personalized towards participants. In my past practice I have successfully facilitated these sessions so that participants learn the skills and are able to separate the debate the person. This is another important life skill.
Homework Offered
Assessments Offered
Informal assessment and through their participationGrades Offered
Notebook, pen
Please note that the topic for debate will be one from a selection I have provided therefore making sure the content is accessible and appropriate for the identified ages.
We will reference the New York Times Argumentative Writing Unit along with other texts specific to the topic we select. Students will have access to the text during the session and beyond.
Average rating:5.0Number of reviews:(4)
Teaching is my life, my parents would say. In my young adult life I took great joy at creating explanations for things and sharing new knowledge with others. As I matured I learned that much of teaching is learning, listening and understanding...
Group Class
$19
per classMeets once
55 min
Completed by 12 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 11-15
3-12 learners per class
