Position Paper

Using Molly Worthen’s piece “U Can’t Talk to Ur Professor Like This”

Background Info: personal story about interactions with her students as a professor and noticing how informal students were in their emails and personal interactions with her

Position Thesis: Old fashion courtesy toward professors in and out of the classroom reinforces respect for all teachers and other professionals within the university.

Evidence 1: Historical references about past student/professor relationships

Evidence 2: Racial disrespect amongst students toward professors of color

Evidence 3: Adds to classroom pedagogy held up as “proper” or “correct”

Counterarguments Recognized: Collegiate expectations and real world expectations are NOT the same and this also applies to respect and recognition

Conclusion: Common courtesy and respect should be taught in the college classroom to help students to recognize when they should use it and when they don’t have to.