The Structure of Argument

In these notes I have assembled some of the assignments and classroom activities that have proved successful over the years in illuminating the elements of argument and eliciting thoughtful student response. Every teacher will have a collection of favorite devices, and I claim no superiority for mine. If some of the materials are not suitable, they may, however, suggest other kinds that are. Together with the writing suggestions in the text and the "Classic Arguments" they should provide an ample repertory of things to do for every day of the course. Clearly there will be more material than any single class can profitably use. But I keep in mind what a wise supervising teacher long ago gave me as one of her secrets for confidence in the classroom: "Always be overprepared."