Journal Blog #7: 2 arguments.

We are nearing the end as we are in our final preparations of thinking, brainstorming, organizing, and outlining. In class, you had the opportunity to consider arguments and test them out with classmates. In this journal blog, I would like you to share what 1-2 arguments you have found to be the strongest support for your debatable position.

Remember that the best arguments--the most persuasive arguments--are ones that people can relate to. You have stories of real people (sourced possibly from the news or even academic work) that exemplify the point that you're trying to make. If your argument is purely based on your own experience, you should know by now that this doesn't withstand a thoughtful critique. Evidence with support is what gives credibility to your argument. This is your challenge.

Briefly and concisely, state your position and your two arguments that you plan to use to support your position. Make your first post by Friday. Then, please respond to two of your classmates and feel free to challenge them on their arguments. Make your response posts by class time next week. Remember to include your ID# in your post.

Aj. M

Journal Blog #6: Critique.

This week and next, we are working to sharpen our critiquing skills. Remember that to critique is to analyse and interrogate the arguments, either on their credibility or on their logic, in order to make an assessment of the source.

In class, we looked at an article by Justin Heifetz (posted at the Google site) who is a former reporter for the Bangkok Post. He is highly critical of Thailand's largest English language news source, and he charges them with kowtowing to influential figures, and not doing their job as a media organization. He also charges them with treating their foreign reporter staff unequally to the Thai staff writers.

Next class, we will look at the Bangkok Post's side of the story. They published a rebuttal to Heifetz' article and it is also posted at the Google Site (Bangkok Post_rebuts_CJR.pdf). This is posted in the Critique Practice folder on the left column. Read both sources, and put your analytical skills to work.

In your view, which is the more credible source. With everything we now know about voice, argumentation, logic, and fallacies, which side do you think you're on? Explain why.

Remember to include your ID# and Section # in your post. Aj. M