EMBEDDED ASSESSMENT 2
JUNIORS
SWBAT pick a topic for their argumentative
essay
 DO NOW: GET READY FOR QUIZ!
 If you finish early, walk your quiz up to me and start reading
and answering questions on page 91 of SpringBoard
REMINDERS
 UNIT TEST IS FRIDAY
 If you are absent, you have to make it up Tuesday, or risk
receiving a zero!
LOOKING AT THE QUESTION
 Your assignment is to synthesize at least three to five
sources and your own observations to defend, challenge, or
qualify the statement that America still provides access to the
American Dream, to the “tired, the poor, and the huddled
masses.” This question requires you to integrate a variety of
sources (3–5) into a coherent, well-written argumentative
essay. Be sure to refer to the sources and employ your own
observations to support your position.
 Your argument should be central; the sources and your
observations should support this argument.
PLANNING OUT YOUR IDEAS
 In a synthesis essay, it is paramount to define important
terms at the beginning of your text. In the case of this
prompt, the definition you create becomes a vehicle for
establishing your thesis. Consider defining important terms
using the following ideas.
 GO TO PAGE 91 IN SPRINGBOARD
Define by Function (What does the
“American Dream” do?):
 The American Dream offers hope to all people regardless of
their backgrounds.
 The American Dream gives everyone an opportunity to be
successful.
Define by Classification (What
groups belong to or have
access to the “American Dream”?):
 Everyone has access to the American Dream.
 The American Dream is a term that refers to the promise
given to those new to our country
Define by Example (What are some
examples of the “American
Dream”?):
 My grandfather, who came from Italy and started his own
business in New York, is the American Dream. Bill Gates is an
example of the American Dream.
Define by Negation (What the
“American Dream” is not):
 The American Dream is not for everyone.
 The American Dream is not a quest for self-knowledge.
 The American Dream does not manifest itself in those who
do not work hard.
DECIDE ON YOUR POSITION
 Are you going to…
 DEFEND?
 CHALLENGE?
 Once you have made a decision. I want you to free write on a piece
of paper that you will be handing in.
Why do you feel this way? Don’t write because I do. Really
state a good opinion (2 points)
2. Have the readings we have done in Unit 1 changed your original
point of view on the idea of the American Dream? In what way, or if
you feel the same way, what readings stick out the most as you look
back on the unit? (2 points)
1.