Argument & Rhetoric — Problem set, Grade 12

Recommend a response to the issue in the source packet. Use at least two sources, answer a serious counterclaim, and state a practical condition or limitation.

Review the key ideas

Advanced Rhetorical Analysis

Ethos concerns credibility, logos concerns reasons and evidence, and pathos concerns emotions or values. Appeals often work together in the same passage.

Constructing Sophisticated Arguments

An argumentative thesis answers a debatable question with a reasoned position. Qualify its scope so the evidence can support it.

Public Discourse & Media

Media literacy asks who created a message, which audience it targets, what it includes or omits, and how its form shapes interpretation.

Evaluating Complex Reasoning

Separate a claim, reasons, evidence, and the assumption connecting them. A count can support a narrow observation without establishing a broad conclusion.

Problem 1

Analyze two appeals and their limits. Explain the evidence or language choice.
Answer and explanation

The supervisory role supports relevant ethos; the proposed attendance trial uses logos. The observed waiting illustrates a need but does not establish schoolwide demand.

Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.

Response criteria

  • Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
  • Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
  • Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.

Problem 2

Write a qualified thesis and response to the objection. Explain the evidence or language choice.
Answer and explanation

A six-week, twice-weekly trial is worth testing if staffing is funded and attendance is recorded. The survey suggests interest but does not establish schoolwide demand; a trial can answer that limited question.

Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.

Response criteria

  • Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
  • Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
  • Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.

Problem 3

Analyze the effect of the cut. Explain the evidence or language choice.
Answer and explanation

The cut preserves belonging but removes the condition about identity. The shorter caption can suggest uncomplicated assimilation, whereas the full sentence resists that reading.

Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.

Response criteria

  • Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
  • Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
  • Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.

Problem 4

Evaluate what the evidence can and cannot support. Explain the evidence or language choice.
Answer and explanation

The count supports demand among most responding club members. It cannot represent all students without broader sampling. A survey including nonusers and a staffed pilot could test general demand.

Use the criteria to compare your reasoning, not to copy the model’s wording. A supported alternative interpretation may earn full credit.

Response criteria

  • Make an accurate, focused claim or revision.
  • Use a relevant detail or a clearly explained language choice.
  • Explain the relationship and recognize a relevant limit.
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