Unit 3: Rogerian Argument
Project OverviewHow many times have you entered into an argument where the opponent was so passionate about the topic that it seemed there was no reason or hope in site to have an intelligent, productive argument? Argument has the connotation that the debate will be heated where tempers will flare and passion will consume intelligible thinking.
Carl Rogers, a sociologist, saw this and realized no progress can come from it. He saw the rhetorical devices being used and believed the traditional argument was set up for a winner, not for progress for both parties involved. He wanted more of a compromise where both sides of the debate would walk away happy and cordial. Thus, the Rogerian Argument came into being. |
Project Due DatesFirst Draft Due: 11/20
The first draft will be turned in via GoogleDrive to our class folder. For credit on this draft, you must submit at least 800 words. (Include Word Count in heading) Peer Review Draft: 11/25 Bring in a full draft of your work. The more you have, the more help it will be for the revision process. Bring in two copies of your draft for markup. If you do not bring copies to the class, you may not participate in this activity. Final Draft Due: 12/2 Remember to put all drafts, table of contents, and designated writing articles into your portfolio. 1800 words. |
“It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it.”
-Aristotle
The Rogerian argument's core principle is comprise. You are finding a common ground to create a win/win situation for both sides of an argument. This style of argument brings together both sides, instead of alienating the "loser." An argument based on the assumption that having a full understanding of an opposing position is essential in responding to it persuasively and refuting it in a way that is accommodating rather than alienating. This is not an argument where you use logic to destroy your opponent's argument, you use logic to bring both of your arguments together.
-Aristotle
The Rogerian argument's core principle is comprise. You are finding a common ground to create a win/win situation for both sides of an argument. This style of argument brings together both sides, instead of alienating the "loser." An argument based on the assumption that having a full understanding of an opposing position is essential in responding to it persuasively and refuting it in a way that is accommodating rather than alienating. This is not an argument where you use logic to destroy your opponent's argument, you use logic to bring both of your arguments together.
How does a traditional argument differ from Rogerian?
Traditional
|
Rogerian
|
Argument Topics
Choose one of the following approved topics for this project:
These topics, and only these, are approved for the Rogerian argument. The use of an unrelated argument will result in an automatic failure of the paper.
- Should the minimum wage be raised, lowered, or stay the same?
- Are beauty contests a good thing for young girls?
- Should college athletes be paid?
- Should people on welfare have to have drug testing?
- Should colleges abolish reliance on SAT and ACT scores for admissions?
These topics, and only these, are approved for the Rogerian argument. The use of an unrelated argument will result in an automatic failure of the paper.
Development
Development of the Rogerian argument is up to you, but you must follow the four criteria of the Rogerian listed above. Remember, you must use neutral language when talking about both sides of the argument. This is not an opinion piece, so you must make sure you stay to the facts presented by the authors of your articles. You are letting the authors speak for their side, so the use of quotations is a must. Remember to use paraphrasing techniques as well.
The compromise can be opinionated, but it must include the positives of both sides. Whatever the strongest, most logical points of both sides are, you should attempt to use them for your basis and reasoning of the compromise.
The compromise can be opinionated, but it must include the positives of both sides. Whatever the strongest, most logical points of both sides are, you should attempt to use them for your basis and reasoning of the compromise.
Grading Rubric
Rogerian Structure: Stays objective and represents both sides of the argument well. Has introduction, both sides, and a compromise.
Objective Compromise: The conclusion represents a well balanced, creative, well thought out compromise to the argument.
Citation Work: Quotes, summary, and paraphrase are used. A works cited and at least four (4) references are used.
Development and Format: A well designed structure. Keeps the attention of the reader without confusion. Represents both sides well. Compromise.
Correctness: Well-Written. The piece follows the guidelines of at least 1800 words, 1 inch margins, headings, citing, and Times New Roman font. Proper grammar and spelling is used.
Invention Portfolio: Everything is organized according to the table of contents. Everything is stapled, labeled, and has student's name. Reflection letter meets requirements.
Creative Component: Included with portfolio. Must be a printed 11 x 17 poster with your name on the back.
Participation/Presence: Assignments were handed in on time, student was in class and attentive, and tardiness/absences under control.
Objective Compromise: The conclusion represents a well balanced, creative, well thought out compromise to the argument.
Citation Work: Quotes, summary, and paraphrase are used. A works cited and at least four (4) references are used.
Development and Format: A well designed structure. Keeps the attention of the reader without confusion. Represents both sides well. Compromise.
Correctness: Well-Written. The piece follows the guidelines of at least 1800 words, 1 inch margins, headings, citing, and Times New Roman font. Proper grammar and spelling is used.
Invention Portfolio: Everything is organized according to the table of contents. Everything is stapled, labeled, and has student's name. Reflection letter meets requirements.
Creative Component: Included with portfolio. Must be a printed 11 x 17 poster with your name on the back.
Participation/Presence: Assignments were handed in on time, student was in class and attentive, and tardiness/absences under control.
Invention Porfolio
Make sure the following is included:
CitationsYou must have at least four(4) sources for your topic represented in the paper. The citations must be in MLA format using both in-text citations as well as a works cited page. The guidelines can be found in your Writing in Action books as well as owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/ . You must follow the formatting guidelines for this citation style to get full credit.
Extra Credit1) Go to the Eastern's Graduate Research Conference on November 14th. This is an all day event. You need to write a two page reflection paper (must be at least 2 full pages) about your experience at the conference. Must include a question you asked a presenter and the answer. If you do not ask a question, transcribe a question and answer from someone else. http://www.emich.edu/graduate/news_events/research_conference/sessionoutlinegrc2014.pdf
2) Write a 2 page movie review. (must be at least 2 full pages). You must provide me with the ticket stub or a picture of inside the theater for credit. You must include the conflict and resolution, ethos, pathos, logos, and kairos in the movie. 3) Visit the writing center and get a consultation slip for your Rogerian paper. This could be for any stage of the process. |
FormatYour paper must follow MLA format. Please consult your Writing in Action book for all details.
Reflection Letter
At least 300 words
Heading should only be your name, word count, and "Reflection Letter" You must talk about:
Poster Creation
Remember, the poster must be 11 x 17 and printed (not hand drawn). It represents both sides of your argument as well as the compromise.
Here are some videos on how to make the poster files: Powerpoint Photoshop Illustrator |