Argument of Definition

Writing Project 3: Arguments of Definition

What’s the assignment? Your second writing project will be to write what your text characterizes as an “argument of definition.”

You might think that definitions are like facts—there’s not much room for debate—but arguments of definition are common and often consequential. As you develop your papers, we’ll talk about ways to offer provocative or controversial definitions, as well as ways to challenge existing definitions.

While formal and operational definitions have their own logic and structure, we are also going to think about structuring argument in this unit. Specifically, we will look at Toulmin analysis, which offers a way to break arguments down and strengthen them. It will also, I think, help solve problems you might have with invention.

You may write about any issue you like (though you will need to get it approved by me).

I’m lost. What can I do? First and foremost, make sure you read Chapter 9 in everything’s an argument. If you look at the sample essays and “projects” page at the end of the chapter, you should get a better idea of what an argument of definition is—and some sense of how to come up with a topic for your paper.

How long should my argument of fact be? 3-3½ pages (about 900 words).

Do I need to do research? Yes. You need to use at least two (3) sources in your paper (and may want/need to use more).

When is my paper due? See the schedule below and the calendar in Blackboard.

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Is there anything else I need to know? Please note the following procedural guidelines—which will apply to all major writing assignments in this class.

· Referrals to the Academic Success Center. If I refer you to the ASC to work with a tutor, you should take your book, the assignment sheet, and your draft (or final paper) with you. You should also have the referral sheet signed by your tutor. You will need to submit the signed referral sheet with your paper.

· Rewrites. You may rewrite and resubmit each paper once; the best grade will be the one that counts. (Please speak with me before beginning a rewrite.)

Here is the rubric I will use to evaluate your argument of definition:

Daily Schedule for Unit 3

Day	Topics	Homework
M (Mar. 22)	Introduce assignment
W (Mar. 24)	Arguments of definition	Begin Chapter 9 in everything’s an argument.
F (Mar. 26)	Arguments of definition	Finish Chapter 9 in everything’s an argument. Post to Discussion Forum 9.
M (Mar. 29)	Toulmin argument	Read pages 130-44 in everything’s an argument. Be ready for a quiz on Toulmin argument.
W (Mar. 31)	Structuring argument	Post a Toulmin analysis of your paper to DF 10.
F (Apr. 2)	Structuring argument	Work on your draft. Read material from They Say, I Say (in texts folder).
M (Apr. 5)	Integrating sources	Post your draft to DF 11 (peer review and showcase).
W (Apr. 7)	Review	Complete peer review. Work on your draft.
F (Apr. 9	Editing	Papers Due