Analyzing Argument in AP Seminar (UAA 1)

Introduction to Analyzing Arguments

  • Objective: Foundational skills for understanding and analyzing arguments.

Effective Reading Strategies

  • Characteristics of effective readers:

    • Read efficiently and purposefully. Determine the value of a source promptly.

    • Read with a purpose in mind. Practice consistent reading strategies.

    • Actively interact with the text to enhance comprehension and analysis.

    • Avoid passive reading.

Source Evaluation

  • Initial Question: "Is this text worth my time?"

  • Importance of verifying the author and source credibility before investing time in the text.

    • Checking the author’s credentials and the publication’s reputation example:

      • Text to Analyze: "Snoozers are in fact losers."

      • Author: Maria Konnikova, published in The New Yorker on December 10, 2013.

  • Activity:

    • Search Maria Konnikova to assess background & credentials. Findings:

    • Website mentions she's a New York Times bestselling author, journalist, and professional poker player.

    • Educational Background:

      • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Creative Writing from Harvard University.

      • PhD in Psychology from Columbia University.

    • Nominations for non-fiction awards indicate credibility in her field.

Publisher Reputation Evaluation

  • Next Step: Evaluate the reputation of The New Yorker.

    • Activity:

    • Search The New Yorker to review its credibility.

    • Expect findings should confirm the publication's respect in the field.

Three-Read Strategy for Text Analysis

  • Overview of the Three-Read Strategy:

    • Read 1: “Read Around the Text”

    • Examine title, subheadings, pictures, captions, graphs, and charts for contextual understanding.

    • Read 2: “Focus on Introduction and Conclusion”

    • Read key paragraphs at the beginning and end of the text.

      • Noteworthy that the sample text lacks subheadings; hence, focus on experiencing the flow of the argument.

      • Example given in class:

      • Find the three dots or ellipses in the text to aid in defining introduction and conclusion:

        • The introduction hints at commonality with snooze behavior and its implications.

        • The conclusion discusses the potential benefits of waking up correctly.

    • Read 3: ACE It (Argument, Claims, Evidence)

    • In-depth reading required for comprehensive understanding. Note: the third read not covered in this session.

Conclusion

  • Key Takeaways:

    • Remember to evaluate the credibility of sources before engaging with them.

    • Employ the three-read strategy for effective analysis of complex texts.

    • Be prepared for future sessions delving deeper into the ACE reading strategy.