Argument Writing

I like that classes are really stressing the importance of argument writing in the classroom.  I imagine that when students think about arguments they think of heated discussions that might devolve into name-calling or hurt feelings.  When we teach argument writing we are able to make the students understand that differing opinions are a huge part of the learning process.

I am a big believer in learning through discussion.  We are shaped by our backgrounds and our experiences, and by learning about the worldviews of others we grow as students and as human beings.  Argument writing is about expressing opinions and backing up those opinions with evidence.  It forces us to examine the things that we believe and it makes us consider others’ arguments as valid and enlightening.  And the best thing about argument writing is its real world applicability.  Students learn to defend their opinions and show cause for the things that they believe.  In the real world we constantly asked to defend the things we say and do, and having the ability to rationally and methodically defend ourselves is a big part of being an adult and being a professional.