Chapter 1-7: Productive Disagreement and Reading Strategies (Flashcards)

A set of QUESTION_AND_ANSWER style flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture notes on productive disagreement, reading strategies, and argumentative writing.

What does 'disagree productively' mean in this course?

Engaging in respectful, evidence-based debate to improve society, avoiding name-calling and simply going along with the group.

What is a 'discourse community' as described in Chapter 1?

A group that collaborates and communicates to solve problems or make decisions, even in everyday tasks like choosing what to eat.

Who is Peter Elbow and what is his contribution to the discussion?

An education and writing theorist who discusses two games for productive discussion: the believing game and the doubting game.

Explain the 'believing game'.

Temporarily try to understand another side's argument before judging it, to see what the person is saying.

Explain the 'doubting game'.

Critically evaluate arguments that align with your views to test their strength and identify weaknesses.

What is the 'They Say, I Say' pattern?

A writing framework that presents what others say ('they say') and then your response ('I say'), which may include agreement or disagreement with additions.

What is a thesis statement's two-part structure?

First state what others say (the 'they say'), then present your own claim (the 'I say'), showing your argument or response.

What is the purpose of the 'sandwich' exercise?

To practice discussing and defending arguments with others in a constructive way, using the hot dog vs. sandwich debate as a focal point.

What are the three stages of 'active reading' described?

Skim to activate knowledge, read with specific targets and take notes, then summarize or respond in writing to reinforce understanding.

What is the purpose of skimming during active reading?

To quickly activate background knowledge and form predictions by examining the title, first paragraph, first sentences, and last paragraph.

Where does the 'they say, I say' pattern often appear in a text?

In the introduction and conclusion, where the author presents the opposing view ('they say') and their response ('I say').

How should you argue when you disagree with someone?

Directly address the other argument with reasons and evidence to show where it is flawed, rather than just saying 'I disagree.'

How can you contribute when you agree with an argument?

Add new information, a different example, or a new perspective to strengthen the argument without simply echoing it.

What is the central activity students will do by week five?

Write an argumentative research paper that responds to others' arguments on a topic.

What is the role of reading in academic writing according to the notes?

Writing is a conversation: read others' work, think about it, and then respond with your own ideas.

What is the recommended approach to selecting essay topics in this course?

Choose topics with no definite right answer to make the exploration and debate engaging and meaningful.

What is the difference between a 'they say' claim and an 'I say' claim?

'They say' presents the existing view; 'I say' presents your response, which may agree and add or disagree with justification.