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)