Final Project Assignment

Due dates:

• Proposal (250 words, plus sources): 7 April to the wiki
• Paper Structure: 17 April, bring two copies of outline to class
• Introduction Draft: 21 April, bring two copies of introduction to class
• Conclusion Draft: 24 April, bring two copies of conclusion to class
• Complete Draft: 26 April, bring two copies of complete draft to class
• Final version: 1 May, 5 PM to the wiki or Burrowes 167

Length: 2000-2400 words (or the equivalent amount of "information")

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Rhetorical arguments are everywhere. Throughout the course, we have worked on arguments in terms of stasis theory and the Toulmin method. The final project is the culmination of English 15 and is an opportunity to exhibit the skills learned, to put it all together as it were.

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Assignment Objectives:

The assignment asks you to compose a rhetorically sensitive piece. To do so, it is likely that some elements of each stasis will be used--their relative "weight" will, of course, depend on the claim being pursued and the audience being addressed. Take a stand, and remember the importance of ethos, pathos and logos, as well as counter-argument.

The project should be on something that interests you__, something __you care about. Given that, it can be about anything. The only requirement is that the project be an argument, that is, aims to persuade. As an arugment there are special requirements, namely, an attention to audience, evidence and warrants. Nonetheless, you should not feel constrained by media or format. The project might take the form of a paper similar to the short pieces we've done, or it might be somewhat more creative.

Options include:

• a website
• a mock advertisement with a rhetorical analysis
• pamphlets as part of a campaign to change people's mind or to inform
• letters to a legislator
• a paper with illustrative images
• documentary (or mocumentary!)

Basically, think about what would be most persuasive to your particular audience and proceed accordingly.

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