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Class 4: Intro to Analytical + Persuasive Writing

Taught by Vivian Shi

Creative & Analytical Writing

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Question of the Day:

What is an ad/sponsorship you most commonly see in day to day life?

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Reminder: AI Policy

There have been some submissions that I suspect to have utilized AI. Again, this course has a no ai policy without exceptions. I’d rather you not submit anything if you plan on using it.

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Introducing: Rhetoric

Ethos, Pathos, Logos

Mini Debates

Gimkit

Class Overview

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the art of speaking and writing effectively such that you influence others.
the study of ways of using language effectively

To surmise, the art of persuasion

Introducing: Rhetoric

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Framework: Aristotle’s Triangle

Ethos

“Ethics”
Get the audience to trust you
Credibility, confidence, experience

Pathos

“Pity”
Get the audience to feel something
Inspire an emotional response

Logos

“Logic”
Get the audience to think factually
Arguments made based on reasoning and evidence

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Example 2: “My years as a fitness trainer has made me the most qualified to tell you exactly what your workout needs.”

Quick Practice: Identify the technique being used

Example 1: “Please don’t scroll! Watching this video and donating will help my sweet puppy Pluto get the treatment he needs!”

Example 3: Statistics say that 89% of students admit to using AI to help cheat.

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Today’s Activity

We’re gonna be practicing debating. I will assign you a side based on alphabetical order and in the chat, type an argument in favor of your position. (preferably utilizing ethos, pathos, logos) - no ai arguments, including ai overview

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Topic 1: Are video games beneficial or not towards teenagers?

Sides: By last name

Yes: A-M No: N-Z

Some Ideas:

Yes: boosts creativity + problem solving skills, better teamwork

No: (violent games) may increase dangerous behavior, may lead to addiction

Bonus: if your argument is creative

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FIVE MINUTE BREAK!

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Topic 2: Should doctors be paid more than professional athletes?

Sides: By last name

No: 2 Yes: 1

Some Ideas:

Yes: doctors save lives and are more productive to society

No: athletes have very short + risky careers so they need all the money they can get

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Topic 3:

Should we invest in space exploration or use those funds to solve issues on Earth?

Space Exploration Arguments:

The Earth is basically beyond saving, it’s time to look beyond.
Space research is less expensive than one might think.
When people explore space, they make discoveries that can help our world too.

Investing in space exploration: 1

Solving problems on Earth: 2

Solve Earth’s Issues Arguments:

Space exploration is an intellectual indulgence rather than something necessary for survival.
Space exploration can damage the space environment.
Spaceflight is risky and has led to costly damages and lives taken.

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Homework

Research one of the topics we debated today and add on to your initial argument. Use evidence, cite sources.