Assignment #14

For my final portfolio I chose to revise my arguing a position essay.  The strengths of my arguing a position essay are its overall clarity and how it appeals to the intended audience- students. The weaknesses of my arguing a position essay are the thesis which could be more informative and I feel like my paper could be a little longer. To make effective changes to my essay, I am going to work on focusing the paper so it doesn’t stray from the main idea. It is going to improve the reading quality, and the essay is going to flow more easily. I could also focus on the audience, and instead of focusing mostly on students, I am going to add elements which appeal to teachers as well. Furthermore, I am going to make substantial corrections to the thesis of my argument. I am going to make them straight forward, and to the point.  I am aware that it is the quality and not quantity of my essay that makes it good. Still, I would like to take care of its appropriate length, perhaps by adding elements from my own experience, or bring more opposing ideas to the action.

Assignment #13

I analyzed the Free Speech off Campus Must be Protected essay. In my opinion, the author’s strongest points to support his claim were the examples he brought up. By providing the reader real life scenarios, the essay seemed more believable and easier to relate to as a student. The author also identified himself as a lawyer, and most importantly named the case in which he, personally, co-authored as a brief defense. By doing so, he ultimately gained trust and credibility. What also struck me as a reader was the way author went over both sides of an argument, giving it a fair stand and informative way letting the reader do the critical thinking and figuring which side is right. It made me realize that in my own paper it is crucial to include not only both sides’ opinions, but also my own reflection on the topic. 

Assignment #12

Is it fair to allow college students to grade their professors on-line?

My most compelling evidence is that asking for advice in picking classes is nothing new and very in fact very common. Students have always asked seniors questions on which courses to take and naturally which teachers or professors are good or bad. Shifting the system online does not make a special difference. It is best that students know what they are getting into before they make choices they suffer for.

My weakest evidence to support my claim is that the after high-school education is getting to be very expensive. And like any other commodity that cost the buyer, its quality must be carefully checked and tested. People, in this case student, should be given all the opportunity to make sure they are getting their money’s worth. Sizing up ,and evaluating professors is one very effective way to do so.