In this assignment, which is a variation of a rhetorical analysis you will be developing a research question on a significant current issue, finding evidence which guides you to an answer to said question, then writing an essay that both summarizes and analyzes the data and various arguments presented around the issue. While this type of writing might feel disembodied from standard the real world, it nevertheless emphasizes analysis skills useful in outside contexts: Whether it’s being able to break down the strengths or flaws in an argument (debunking why a conspiracy makes no sense), convincing a good friend why their well-intentioned argument is irrational, or in a professional context, being able to perform a needs assessment or marketing analysis.
Describe and briefly summarize the key arguments presented in your evidence.
Identify the assumptions and premises (e.g. warrants) of the evidence or arguments.
Analyze the quality of said premises and assumptions (i.e. provide a rationale for why these are valid or weak premises). This means highlighting fallacies or other flaws that weaken the overall argument, and/or highlighting the strengths of the argument.
Identify the most prominent rhetorical appeals in the argument and their strength.
Remember that your goal is not to agree or disagree with the arguments, nor is it to propose a specific course of action or solution (i.e. a proposition of policy): You’re evaluating the effectiveness of the arguments and evidence (in other words “is this a good or a bad argument” and explaining why it is/isn’t, in simplest terms). In other words, your personal feelings about the topic are largely irrelevant for this assignment.
*ESSAY TOPIC IDEA*
I noticed that many people play video games, but I also noticed that some play it just a little more than others. I feel that this topic would be perceived by concerning parents and concerning gamers. This is definitely something to be aware of, considering the extensive damage that could take play. Video games are now very easily accessible than it ever has been.
Social anxiety can be a lifelong struggle and so can back pain. Video games are only getting more addicting and gaming addiction is not slowing down anytime soon. Something that I may struggle with may be the severity of the issue. I’m not sure how many gamers care about the consequences, and may not take my essay seriously due to the fact. Below are some sources to show that there is a problem in the industry and that gaming addiction is very much prevalent in today’s world.
*THINGS TO CONSIDER*
Include an introduction that:
Introduces your issue
Poses the question(s) you are trying to address
Gives an overview of your sources.
Include clear transitions between main ideas or sections (feel free to use APA heading styles to separate your paper)
Include a conclusion that
Briefly summarizes your analysis
Provides any answers to your question that your analysis allows you to make
Includes any final thoughts/opinions you have in the paper
Consider who your audience is
Who are you writing to?
What do you perceive their attitude to be?
What do you believe their understanding of the issue is?
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