Introduction
Introduction
In the past few weeks you have learned and practiced how to write a strong argument. Now, the organizers of comic con 2018 need your help! They have been debating for weeks and have now opened the discussion up to the public: who is the better hero, Superman or Hercules? Superman was America's first superhero. He is the man of steel! On the other hand, Hercules was a demigod! He was the strongest man alive in ancient times. It's up to you to put this argument to rest once and for all!
Task
Task
You will learn more about each character by doing some of your own research. You must ultimately decide who is the better hero. After you make your decision, you will write an argumentative essay in order to convince the organizers of comic con that you're right.
Develop your reasons and counterargument into 3 paragraphs of 5 – 6 sentences or more. Use informal voice. There is no introduction or conclusion, just the reason paragraphs. One of your reasons must be a counterargument that you will then refute.
Process
Process
1. Review the websites listed below:
http://dc.wikia.com/wiki/Superman_(Clark_Kent)
https://www.superherostuff.com/biographies/supermanbio.html
http://teacherweb.com/LA/MandevilleHighSchool/Maranto/Hercules-vs.-Superman-article.pdf
http://greece.mrdonn.org/greekgods/hercules.html
http://www.crystalinks.com/12laborshercules.html
Use the information gained from the sites to develop your own argument for Superman or Hercules being the better hero. Use the web sites as your evidence to support your reasons.
2. Complete the prewriting sheet below
Claim / Title: 3 Reasons Why _______________________ Is Better Than _________________________
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Reasons |
Supporting Details –Tell your source |
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Reason 1
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Reason 2
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Counterargument (Reason 3)
Opposing viewpoint:
How can I refute it? |
3. Write your argument.
4. Check the rubric at the end of the webquest and note your progression of learning.
Evaluation
Evaluation
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Writing Arguments Scale |
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4 |
Yes Some No I can write a multi-paragraph argument essay that demonstrates a command of voice and style that rises above formulaic writing. |
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3 |
I can write a multi-paragraph argument essay that includes the following elements: Yes Some No I can support my claim with sufficient (enough) logical reasoning and relevant evidence. Yes Some No I can organize my reasons and evidence logically. Yes Some No I can support my claim with accurate, credible sources and cite them correctly. Yes Some No I can write and refute a counterargument. Yes Some No I can use transitional words and phrases to guide my reader through claim, reasons and evidence, and counterargument. Yes Some No I can write in a style that is appropriate for my purpose and audience: correct capitalization, end punctuation, and spelling. |
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2 |
I can complete a graphic organizer or write a one-paragraph essay that includes the following elements: Yes Some No I can write a claim. Yes Some No I can write a counterargument. Yes Some No I can support my claim with relevant reasons and/or evidence. |
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1.5 |
I can, with help, demonstrate understanding of the Level 2 learning targets, but I have some major errors or omissions. |
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Constructing Writing Scale |
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4
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Yes Some No My writing has voice and style that engage the reader. Yes Some No My writing demonstrates a perceptive command of the topic. |
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3
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Yes Some No I went into sufficient (enough) detail for the task. Yes Some No My writing has a clear beginning, middle, and end. Yes Some No I used transitional words and phrases. Yes Some No I made thoughtful choices in my writing style that fit the task, purpose, and audience. Yes Some No I followed the writing process: pre-writing, first draft, revising and editing, final draft. |
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2
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Yes Some No My writing is on topic. Yes Some No My writing makes sense. Yes Some No My paragraphs have topic sentences. Yes Some No My paragraphs focus on only one idea each. |
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1.5 |
I can, with help, demonstrate understanding of the Level 2 learning targets, but I have some major errors or omissions. |
Conclusion
Conclusion
When you are finished with your argument, have a classmate peer edit it. When you make all of the needed revisions and edits, turn your final copy into the stack tray.