How can you stand out?
To do an effective, simple, streamlined structure you must work with the key ideas/main argument points from the opinion-style article.
My key ideas/argument points are much stronger and more analytically precise than the ones you do in class.
For example, is describing a problem a point-of-view? In my book, no. You need to work harder because over-analysing a problem leads to a summary-style discussion. Unless you connect the problem to the viewpoint you will not be able to analyse the purpose and intended effect in a meaningful way. By providing this problematic context, what is the author’s point? What do they, either directly or indirectly want us to do? How does it connect with their views and values?
Another reason I like to be razor-sharp with regards to the key point-of-view ideas, is that it guides and structures your analysis and helps to minimise repetition. Ask yourself, which persuasive techniques best support this key idea? How is the piece structured to reinforce the author’s key ideas, (their views and values)?
Please go over some of the articles we’ve worked on in the last few weeks and write out the key ideas.
For example,
Key argument points – you must clearly locate them even if they are all at the beginning or all at the end.
Schools right now face a choice – fight the wave of ChatGPT, or surf it Adam Voigt CEO and former principal January 21, 2023 — 5.00am
- Main contention and title: Voigt stipulates that teachers must “surf” the storm of Chat GTP which is socially disruptive and permanent.
- According to Voigt, there will be some benefits and advantages such as the offloading and minimisation of the humdrum and mundane aspects of one’s job. (The extended metaphor and relatable examples – an attempt to reassure teachers.)
- Voigt criticises those teachers who try to “batten” down the hatches. To ignore the threat is not an option. They will be destroyed by the storm. (The extended metaphor and comparisons – alarming those who disengage from the programs)
- Voigt recommends that teachers “adjust their sails” and make some changes to the way they conduct assessments. They will have to deal with the “assessment conundrum” and work out how to ensure equitable and fair assessments given that the integrity of homework will be forever compromised. (The example of the Khan Academy)
Do not put too much metalanguage in one sentence and especially not comparisons which are linked to thought processes. You need to unpack the author’s purpose and intended effects.
