Workshop on Persuasive Essay

We spent most of class working through a sample persuasive essay. We used a strategy to create a "reverse oultine" to identify the position and claims argued by the author. We looked at each paragraph and pulled out the main point. We noticed that this author argued the counterargument FIRST - and noted that that was an especially good move - since she was arguing AGAINST the textbook. By acknowledging that the textbook had the right idea (but needed more information) she actually built on the "other side" to strengthen her argument. This is a good strategy for arguing against texts or people that have more authority than you have. Also - this essay used other authorities (books on teaching writing coaches) to challenge the authority of our textbook. This was also a smart move.

We also reviewed the schedule for observing in the writing center and went through the directions for what you are supposed to do. As stated on the syllabus & calendar, you will need a minimum of 5 observations in the Center. You need to complete a tutor observation sheet for each session you observed. The routine should go like this:

1. Sign in for your observation at the front desk. You should go in a few minutes early so you can find out which session you will observe. The Graduate Assistant (GA) will be there to help you. If there are no sessions for you to observe - the GA will set up a mock session or provide other instruction. If you would like to re-schedule - you may, but you should not be required to come back at another time.

2. Go through any preliminary instruction, discussion presented by the Graduate Assistant (GA). Ask questions.

3. Seat yourself off the the side, but where you can see. You may jot down a few notes - but be sensitive to the fact that you do not want to make the student and coach self conscious.

4. When the session concludes (it should be at least 10 minutes before the end of the hour), participate in any follow-up organized by the GA. Fill out your observation sheet.

As we discussed in class, your observation sheets will provide the basis for your final project for this course => the analytic essay. Be sure to fill in the date for each observation.

If you have any questions - ask me next class.

For Thursday:

Write: start to work on revising your persuasive essay. Read through the comments and if you have questions or don't know how to follow through on the suggestions - let me know.

Read: Chapter 8: Coping with Different Tutoring Situations

Due date for revised persuasive essay: November 4. Note: Even though the final draft for the persuasive essay will be due November 4 - come to class on November 2 prepared to work on your reflective essay (and give yourself a grade) for the final draft.