Criteria D & ECriteria D & EKnowledge of Subject Knowledge of Subject
and Reasoned Argumentand Reasoned Argument
Knowledge of Subject (D) – How do I Knowledge of Subject (D) – How do I show that I know what I am talking show that I know what I am talking
about?about?
“Demonstrates a very good knowledge and understanding of topic studied”
• You have consulted a variety of sources and are able to articulate the relationships between your sources; you tell me what it means NOT what it says
• Role of the Vive Voce – are you able to answer questions about your conclusion and research or are you merely “parroting” back your paper?
• You cannot fabricate knowledge acquisition or the research process
Knowledge of Subject (D) – How do I Knowledge of Subject (D) – How do I “locate” the topic in an “academic “locate” the topic in an “academic
context”?context”?
“the essay clearly and precisely locates the investigation in an academic context”
• Can be defined as “the current state of the field of study under investigation”
• The scope of your investigation needs to address the CURRENT state of study; WHAT is the current state of study in your topic?
• You need to have current sources. The currency of the research/writing speaks to its importance; if there hasn’t been anything written for 100 years, is it worthy of investigation?
Reasoned Argument (E) – How do I Reasoned Argument (E) – How do I organize all of my research?organize all of my research?
“Ideas are presented clearly and in a logical and coherent manner”
“Develops a reasoned and convincing argument in relation to the research question”
• Be consistent and organized – creating a plan or outline will help you with this
• Know the TYPE of argument you are making and how it relates to your subject
Types of Argument Types of Argument OrganizationOrganization
Comparative – Focus on elements that are similar (or different) make sure that the elements in your comparison are consistent from source to source. (example: world lit paper)
Cause and Effect – Focuses on the causal relationships between things - avoid logical fallacies (example: Mike Jordan would be a great middle school gym coach)
Types of Arguments (Cont.)Types of Arguments (Cont.)Point/Counterpoint – Use one source
to establish an “answer” and then use an opposing source to explore the other side.
Patterns/Threads – You notice that all of the research in your topic is organized by certain elements; this becomes the structure of your essay
Types of Arguments (cont.)Types of Arguments (cont.)Juxtaposing an Anchor Source – there is
one major source or document (it may be a primary source) in your topic and you use other sources’ discussions of it to reach a conclusion
Scientific – Follows the scientific method; reveals the thesis in the conclusion (versus intro)
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