In our textbook Writing Essentials, Routman discusses that teachers should save time and make every minute count. Instead of having the students do a lot of papers have them focus specifically on a big projects In this article Teaching Argumentative Writing through Debate by Joe Connor he discusses the students learning a lot through one big project: argumentative debating. It not only engages the students because they realize their beliefs, get to argue their opinion, and they consider opposing views, but they develop critical thinking skills needed throughout life.
Do you think big projects are more engaging for the students than a lot of small papers or projects? why or why not?
Is Argumentative writing a writing style you would teach your classroom? Why or why not?
What other ways could you incorporate argumentative writing into the classroom?
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I think that big and small projects both have their place in the classroom. I think that many students can become overwhelmed when faced with a big project, so having several smaller projects would be a good alternative. However, I think that with bigger projects, they can be more encompassing of the topic it is on and it can engage students well. I would have to say that I would probably use a few small projects and then have one bigger project. I would teach Argumentative Writing because it is a good way for students to look at one side of an argument, and I think that these types of assignments will help them find their own voice. In order to incorporate argumentative writing into my classroom, I would pick several topics and have students argue for or against them. I would use current problems in order to engage the students in what is actually happening in the world.
ReplyDeleteI do not necessarily think that all big projects are more engaging for students compared to small papers or projects. I think that the big projects have the potential to be engaging, worthwhile and effective. It is through the projects and substantial papers that students become familiar with the entire writing process. However, small assignments have their place too. There should be a balance: too many short assignments and students miss-out on having amazing larger learning experiences, and too many big projects and students are overwhelmed and stressed from week 1 to week 15. I would definitely incorporate an argumentative writing style in my classroom for all the reasons stated in the article. There is no reason to omit a writing style with so many potential benefits for students.
ReplyDeleteBig projects can definitely be a very useful tool in the classroom. I do not know if i agree with one big argumentative project. I do think that an argumentative writing project would be good for the classroom, but not as a semester/year long deal. Argumentative writing forces students to things from all angles. Having a debate would help with problem solving and quick thinking skills which will only help students as they get older. I agree that this project would encompass many aspects of writing but not everything. Perhaps having some short projects and some longer ones so students can experience both.
ReplyDeleteI think that to be an effective teacher you need to use a variety of teaching styles. Students get bored with one way of learning so I think it is a good idea to use both small projects as well as big ones. The issue of debate in the classroom is a great idea. Like the author said it gets studnets to find their beliefs about a subject and argue those beliefs. Also when you argue or discuss a topic with someone you learn more about the topic at hand. Another great reason to use debate in the classroom is to increase understanding among all studnets. If a studnet is arguing for an issue they do not believe in, but are required to find points as to why they should argue this point they will be able to see things from a different perspective. They will develop a better understanding for their peers and their beliefs.
ReplyDeleteI always really liked big projects. While you may be able to cover more material through small projects, in my experience they tend to get repetitive and do not seem to be of much help. Big projects have the opportunity to expand on one subject and really give the students good experience in one area.
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