• Point of view- the perspective with which a writer sees a
subject. It is shaped by the author’s knowledge, beliefs, and
experiences.
• Notice, point of view can refer to more than just first person, second
person, and third person.
• Stated point of view- the writer simply states his or her point
of view
• Example: As president of the Bike Club, I support bicycle lanes.
• Implied point of view- the reader must infer the writer’s point
of view
• Example: I spent my childhood going on bike trips. One of my first words
was derailleur.
• Point of view and position are not the same thing.
• Two people who support the same position can
have different points of view.
Common Position: Students should wear uniforms.
Principal
Point of View: I am responsible
for student safety.
Student
Point of View: I spend too much
money and time on clothes.
Specific Position: If students
Specific Position: Uniforms would
wore uniforms, we could identify allow us to focus on our studies.
non-students more easily.
• When writers disagree about an idea, it is often
because they hold different points of view.
• To make their argument stronger, writers anticipate
and counter opposing viewpoints.
• Example: I know that some students disagree with me. They
want to express themselves through their clothing. I think,
however, that most students agree that safety outweighs
expression.
In "The Trouble With Television," Robert MacNeil makes a strong
argument that criticizes the effects of television on American
society. Marie Winn in “Television Addiction” also has an
opinion about television viewing.
Write an argumentative essay in which you agree or disagree with
MacNeil's claims about television.
Review the speech and article to identify several key points to
focus on in your essay.
As you write, maintain a formal style and use appropriate
transitions that clarify the relationships between your ideas and
MacNeil and Winn’s claims.
Support your argument with well-chosen details and quotations
from the speech as well as from the article. Be sure to cite your
sources. Conclude your argumentative essay with a strong
statement that summarizes and reinforces your position.