AVID 10 Argumentative Essay Unit Slides

Argumentative Writing with Service Learning

• Unit Overview:

  • 10th Grade Research Unit

  • Number of lessons: 7

• AVID WAG: Weeks at a Glance

Understanding Argumentative Writing

• Definition:

  • Expressing opinions, beliefs, or arguments.

  • Allows a writer to take a stand with compelling support.

  • Aims to persuade or influence opinions or actions.

Engaging with a Topic

• Engage Prompt:

  • Choose an issue you’re passionate about in your community, school, or society.

  • State a claim related to the topic.

  • Defend and justify your opinion:

    • Explain reasoning

    • Provide supporting evidence

    • Address opposing viewpoints

Purpose of Argumentation

• Purpose:

  • To influence the reader using evidence and reasoning.

  • Distinguish between persuasion (changing opinions aggressively) vs. argumentation (seeking truth objectively).

Essay Structure

• Engage: Essay Structure:

  • Introduction (4-6 sentences):

    • Attention grabber or hook (anecdote, quote, facts).

    • General review of the topic.

    • Importance of the topic.

    • Clear and concise thesis statement.

  • Supporting Body Paragraphs (8-10 sentences each):

    • Begin with a topic sentence supporting the thesis.

    • Include well-researched evidence.

    • End with a summary and a transition to the next paragraph.

  • Counter Argument Paragraph (8-10 sentences):

    • Present a counterclaim.

    • Refute using text evidence.

    • Acknowledge other perspectives while stating your stance.

  • Conclusion (4-6 sentences):

    • Recap the topic.

    • Restate the thesis and call to action.

    • Powerful final statement (do not introduce new info).

Rubric for Effective Argumentative Writing

• AVID Argumentative Writing Rubric (0-4 scale):

  1. Clearly stated importance of the topic in the introduction.

  2. Well-defined thesis with a debatable claim.

  3. Credible supporting evidence.

  4. Commentary explaining reasoning connected to evidence.

  5. Consideration and refutation of opposing views.

  6. Logical sequence of paragraphs with clear transitions.

  7. Conclusion restates thesis based on evidence synthesis.

  8. Use of standard writing conventions (grammar, punctuation).

  9. Variation in sentence structure and beginnings.

  10. Use of descriptive language and effective transitions.

  11. Appropriate multimedia that enhances meaning.

Ideas for Evidence

• Research Evidence:

  • Original documents, photographs, charts, statistical data, anecdotes, quotations, interviews, articles, and more.

Rules of Engagement for Discussions (Philosophical Chairs)

1. Understand the topic and take a stand.

2. Listen carefully to others.

3. Only one person speaks at a time.

4. Summarize previous arguments before responding.

5. Engage other viewpoints respectfully.

6. Keep an open mind.

Reflection on Learning

• Thoughts on Discussions:

  • Key ideas discussed.

  • Strongest arguments.

  • Memorable moments.

Brainstorming Topics for Essays

• Exit Prompt:

  • Identify problems to solve in your community.

  • Decide on topics for argumentative essays.

Lesson Focus: Thesis Creation and Revision

• Engage: Crafting a clear thesis statement guiding focus throughout the essay.

• Guiding Questions:

  • Is your thesis statement focused and clear?

  • Are transition words used effectively?

  • Does it contain vague language?

Research Practices and Tips

• Key Research Tactics:

• Create lists of relevant terms to enhance search specificity.

• Use reliable sources like educational or government websites.

• Conduct research through appropriate search filters (e.g., Google Scholars).

Writing and Citing Sources

• Engage: Citation Practices:

  • Observe and evaluate how sources are integrated and cited.

  • Discuss source reliability in pairs or groups for deeper understanding.

Drafting and Presenting Essays

• Engage: Drafting Structure:

  • Present multi-paragraph essays with integrated sources.

  • Community service connection and presentation slides required.

Editing and Revising Process

• Engage: Editing Techniques:

  • Step-by-step process to improve sentence clarity and engagement.

  • Utilize peer feedback for revisions.

Final Publication and Presentation Practices

• Presentations:

  • Emphasize strong presentation skills and correct citation.

  • Use multimedia tools to enhance delivery.

Post-Unit Reflection and Feedback

• Evaluate: Revise initial thoughts based on new learnings and peer interactions.