EN1420
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Graded Assignments
Unit 1 Assignment 1: Chapter Review and Visual Argument
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Use argument strategies, both traditional and consensual, to develop, communicate, and defend
a position in a variety of communication formats.
Assignment Requirements
1. Read and review Chapter 1. Highlight important concepts, take notes, and write down any
questions you may have.
2. Locate an example of a visual argument to share with the class.
3. Analyze your example by performing the Steps for Reading Visual Argument in the box at the
bottom of p. 9 of your text. Write down your answers.
4. Bring your visual argument to class. Be prepared to present your example to the class and to
present your analysis during in-class discussion.
5. Answer the Chapter Review Questions 1-8 at the bottom of p. 29. Provide your answers to these
review questions in complete sentences.
Submission Requirements

Complete this assignment as a MS Word document using 12-pt. Times New Roman font.

Be sure to include your identifying information such as name and course section on all submitted
assignments.

Your instructor will assess and grade this assignment using the following criteria:
A: Completed all tasks with excellence, to or beyond specified requirements
B: Completed all tasks to specified requirements; one or two small details may be missing, or
there may be minor errors in spelling or grammar
C: Completed most tasks to specified requirements
D: Did not complete most tasks as specified
F: Failed to turn in assignment
-1-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Unit 1 Assignment 2: ITT Tech Virtual Library Worksheet
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Use the ITT Tech Virtual Library to research selected topics.
Assignment Requirements
Use the Locating ITT Tech Virtual Library Resources handout provided by your instructor to complete the
tutorials and respond to the questions on the worksheet.
Submission Requirements

Complete this assignment as a MS Word document using 12-pt. Times New Roman font.

Be sure to include your identifying information such as name and course section on all submitted
assignments.

Your instructor will assess and grade this assignment using the following criteria:
A: Completed all tasks with excellence, to or beyond specified requirements
B: Completed all tasks to specified requirements; one or two small details may be missing, or
there may be minor errors in spelling or grammar
C: Completed most tasks to specified requirements
D: Did not complete most tasks as specified
F: Failed to turn in assignment
-2-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Unit 2 Assignment 1: Chapter Review and TRACE
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Use argument strategies, both traditional and consensual, to develop, communicate, and defend
a position in a variety of communication formats.

Differentiate and evaluate competing arguments.
Assignment Requirements
1. Read and review Chapter 2. Highlight important concepts, take notes, and write down any
questions you may have.
2. Review the TRACE Summary Chart on p. 452. Use it to answer the Chapter Review Questions 15 on page 57. Provide your answers to these review questions in complete sentences.
Submission Requirements

Complete this assignment as a MS Word document using 12-pt. Times New Roman font.

Be sure to include your identifying information such as name and course section on all submitted
assignments.

Your instructor will assess and grade this assignment using the following criteria:
A: Completed all tasks with excellence, to or beyond specified requirements
B: Completed all tasks to specified requirements; one or two small details may be missing, or
there may be minor errors in spelling or grammar
C: Completed most tasks to specified requirements
D: Did not complete most tasks as specified
F: Failed to turn in assignment
-3-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Unit 2 Assignment 2: TRACE Analysis
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Use argument strategies, both traditional and consensual, to develop, communicate, and defend
a position in a variety of communication formats.

Differentiate and evaluate competing arguments.
Assignment Requirements
1. Read the following in your textbook:
a. What Role Should Technology Play in Education? on p. 522
b. The Rhetorical Situation on pp. 522-523
c.
One of the essays in Section 3: Issues Concerning Education and School on pp. 523-540
2. After you have completed the reading, use the TRACE questions titled “For You as the Reader”
on p. 452 in the textbook and perform a TRACE analysis on the essay you selected to read.
Using your TRACE analysis as a basis, write a summary and response essay. Your essay should
be a minimum of three paragraphs, and must do the following:
a. Summarize the source essay’s rhetorical situation.
b. Summarize the author’s position, perspective, and evidence.
c.
Respond with your own position, perspective, and evidence.
Submission Requirements

Complete this assignment as a MS Word document using 12-pt. Times New Roman font.

Be sure to include your identifying information such as name and course section on all submitted
assignments.

Your instructor will assess and grade this assignment using the following criteria:
A: Completed all tasks with excellence, to or beyond specified requirements
B: Completed all tasks to specified requirements; one or two small details may be missing, or
there may be minor errors in spelling or grammar
C: Completed most tasks to specified requirements
D: Did not complete most tasks as specified
F: Failed to turn in assignment
-4-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Unit 3 Assignment 1: Summary-Response Paper
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Use argument strategies, both traditional and consensual, to develop, communicate, and defend
a position in a variety of communication formats.

Differentiate and evaluate competing arguments.
Assignment Requirements
Select one of the essays found in Section 1 or Section 2 of the Reader portion of your textbook. Using the
essay you select, write a concise one-page summary response paper.
Submission Requirements

Complete this assignment as a MS Word document using 12-pt. Times New Roman font.

Be sure to include your identifying information such as name and course section on all submitted
assignments.

Your instructor will assess and grade this assignment using the following criteria:
A: Completed all tasks with excellence, to or beyond specified requirements
B: Completed all tasks to specified requirements; one or two small details may be missing, or
there may be minor errors in spelling or grammar
C: Completed most tasks to specified requirements
D: Did not complete most tasks as specified
F: Failed to turn in assignment
-5-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Unit 3 Assignment 2: Exploratory Paper
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Use argument strategies, both traditional and consensual, to develop, communicate, and defend
a position in a variety of communication formats.

Differentiate and evaluate competing arguments.
Assignment Requirements
Using your completed Exploratory Paper Worksheet (p. 111 in your textbook) completed during the thinkpair-share activity in class, write an exploratory paper.
Submission Requirements

Complete this assignment as a MS Word document using 12-pt. Times New Roman font.

Be sure to include your identifying information such as name and course section on all submitted
assignments.

Your instructor will assess and grade this assignment using the following criteria:
A: Completed all tasks with excellence, to or beyond specified requirements
B: Completed all tasks to specified requirements; one or two small details may be missing, or
there may be minor errors in spelling or grammar
C: Completed most tasks to specified requirements
D: Did not complete most tasks as specified
F: Failed to turn in assignment
-6-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Unit 4 Assignment 1: Toulmin Analysis
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Implement Toulmin’s Model as a tool for analyzing and constructing arguments.
Assignment Requirements
Complete Exercise E on p. 137 of your textbook as an individual assignment. Perform your analysis by
answering Questions A through G. Be prepared to discuss your answers at the next class session.
Submission Requirements

Complete this assignment as a MS Word document using 12-pt. Times New Roman font.

Be sure to include your identifying information such as name and course section on all submitted
assignments.

Your instructor will assess and grade this assignment using the following criteria:
A: Completed all tasks with excellence, to or beyond specified requirements
B: Completed all tasks to specified requirements; one or two small details may be missing, or
there may be minor errors in spelling or grammar
C: Completed most tasks to specified requirements
D: Did not complete most tasks as specified
F: Failed to turn in assignment
-7-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Unit 5 Assignment 1: Working Claim Oral Presentation
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Use argument strategies, both traditional and consensual, to develop, communicate, and defend
a position in a variety of communication formats.
Assignment Requirements
Using the Working Claim worksheet completed in class as a basis, produce a brief (five-slide maximum)
PowerPoint presentation of your working claim. Your presentation should:

State your claim.

Identify the claim type.

State preliminary reasons to support your claim.

State possible opposition to your claim.

State types of proof you plan to research and collect.
Prepare a brief oral presentation of your claim to present to the class. Use the notes pages of your
PowerPoint to record your talking points.
Submission Requirements
Your instructor will grade the presentation using the following rubric:
Grading Rubric: Debate to Dialogue with PowerPoint
Assessment
A
B
C-D
F
Categories
STRONG
EFFECTIVE
DEVELOPING/
NOT THERE YET
EMERGING
Ideas
Key Q: Did the presenter communicate the claim in a clear, memorable way?
Slides and narration
Slides and
Slides and
Slides and/or
convey the claim
narration present
narration convey
narration unclear,
effectively with
the claim
main claim
uninteresting, or do
interest and style. All
satisfactorily.
somewhat clearly.
not adequately
content requirements
Content
Some content may
convey claim.
are met or exceeded
requirements are
be weak or vague.
Balance or
and well-presented in
met and presented
Parts of
professionalism is
a balanced and
in a balanced and
presentation may
absent.
professional manner.
professional
lack balance or
manner.
professionalism.
-8-
01/26/2012
Composition II
Organization
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Key Q: Can the audience understand and easily follow the ideas in the order and form in
which they are presented?
Audience
Awareness
Slides are well
Slides are
Slides could be
Slides are poorly
ordered, and narration
satisfactorily
more effectively
ordered, narration
clearly and effectively
ordered and
organized. Order of
is confusing, out of
conveys the ideas in
narration conveys
presentation
order, out of synch
logical order.
ideas adequately
satisfactory but
with slides,
and in reasonable
could be improved
inadequately
order.
upon for better flow
prepared, or
and clarity.
ineffective.
Key Q: Do the slides and narration keep your interest and attention, and target the
audience effectively?
Slides and narration
Slides and
Slides and
Slides and
work together to
narration connect
narration are
narration may be
connect well with
reasonably well
somewhat effective
unclear,
audience. Excellent
with intended
in connecting with
inappropriate, or
choice of language
audience.
audience. Some
fail to connect with
and vocabulary.
Language is
language and
audience.
Clearly spoken, with
appropriate.
vocabulary choices
humor and interest.
Visuals
could be improved.
Key Q: Do the images used convey a clear and interesting picture of the ideas?
Well-chosen graphics
Graphics are used
Graphics are
Graphics may be
effectively carry the
appropriately to
generally functional
ineffective or
message in a precise,
convey the
and appropriate but
inappropriate.
interesting, and
message. Slides
unexciting or
Slides are poorly
effective way. Slides
and amount of text
nonspecific. Slides
planned and
are well-formatted
are satisfactory.
may be text-heavy,
designed or
according to best
busy, or lack
overwhelmed by
practice and not text-
interest. Some
amount of text.
heavy.
picture choices
may not work well.
-9-
01/26/2012
Composition II
Conventions
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Key Q: How much editing and practice is necessary to make this presentation really
ready to share?
Excellent command of
Minor problems
Noticeable and
Frequent errors
spelling, grammar,
with narration,
somewhat
make the narration
punctuation. No
spelling, grammar,
distracting errors in
and/or text difficult
errors. Narration is
or punctuation.
narration, spelling,
to read and
clearly articulated and
grammar, or
understand.
grammatically correct.
punctuation.
- 10 -
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Unit 5 Assignment 2: Summary-Response
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Use argument strategies, both traditional and consensual, to develop, communicate, and defend
a position in a variety of communication formats.
Assignment Requirements
Read Essay #6 on pp. 167-169 in your text. Write a one page summary-response essay. Your essay
must:

Summarize the author’s main points.

Respond to the author’s main points.

State your own opinion regarding the author’s claim(s).
Submission Requirements

Complete this assignment as a MS Word document using 12-pt. Times New Roman font.

Be sure to include your identifying information such as name and course section on all submitted
assignments.

Your instructor will assess and grade this assignment using the following criteria:
A: Completed all tasks with excellence, to or beyond specified requirements
B: Completed all tasks to specified requirements; one or two small details may be missing, or
there may be minor errors in spelling or grammar
C: Completed most tasks to specified requirements
D: Did not complete most tasks as specified
F: Failed to turn in assignment
- 11 -
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Unit 6 Assignment 1: Using Proofs to Prepare a Brief Position Paper
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Use argument strategies, both traditional and consensual, to develop, communicate, and defend
a position in a variety of communication formats.
Assignment Requirements
Select and read an essay of your choice in Section 5 or Section 6 of the Reader in your text. Read
Exercise G on page 218. Take your own position on the issue discussed in the essay you selected, or on
a closely related issue. State your position as a claim that can serve as the thesis for a brief paper.
Answer the questions in Exercise G regarding the types of proofs to help you in deciding which would be
most effective in supporting your claim. Be sure to use full sentences when answering the questions.
Submission Requirements

Complete this assignment as a MS Word document using 12-pt. Times New Roman font.

Be sure to include your identifying information such as name and course section on all submitted
assignments.

Your instructor will assess and grade this assignment using the following criteria:
A: Completed all tasks with excellence, to or beyond specified requirements
B: Completed all tasks to specified requirements; one or two small details may be missing, or
there may be minor errors in spelling or grammar
C: Completed most tasks to specified requirements
D: Did not complete most tasks as specified
F: Failed to turn in assignment
- 12 -
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Unit 7 Assignment 1: Spotlight On: Primary Source
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Use argument strategies, both traditional and consensual, to develop, communicate, and defend
a position in a variety of communication formats.
Assignment Requirements
This week’s assignment exposes you to the novelty, challenges, and advantages of using a primary
source. Follow the directions carefully, and turn in all required parts of the assignment for full credit.
You may work individually, in pairs, or in a group of three.
Your instructor will determine the due date for this assignment.
Task 1: Select Your Topic

Complete the topic section below.
Task 2: Identify Your Source

Explain your choice.
Task 3: Interview Your Source

Complete the Interview Questions section.

Submit questions to your instructor for approval BEFORE interviewing source.

Make appointment with primary source.

Conduct interview.

Send thank you via professionally worded email or letter to source.
Task 4: Transcribe Your Interview

Follow the formatting guidelines given in this handout.
Task 5: Draft a One-Page Essay

The essay should answer your original question, using information from your primary
source. Your instructor will provide formatting specifications.

Your essay should include the following:
o
Your key question, and the reasons you seek an answer
o
An introduction to your source, and relevant information regarding your source’s
expertise
o
The answer to your question, using information gathered in the interview, and
including at least one direct or indirect quotation from your source
- 13 -
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Task 1: Select Your Topic
Use discussion, creative thinking, and prewriting techniques to come up with a list of topics relevant to
your ITT Tech experience. Your focus can be anything that has to do with higher education, including
such areas as program goals, loans and grants, employability during and after completion of the degree
program, time management, transportation, relevance of curriculum, quality of materials and instruction,
facility and location, student body, reputation and prestige, and so on. Select the topic of most interest to
you. If the topic is broad, narrow it through mapping or additional discussion. Identify the burning question
you would like to ask about this topic: the question that will be the key to opening up your perspective and
understanding of the topic through your interaction with a primary source. Be sure to check the wording of
your question for bias and preconception.
POSSIBLE TOPICS
SELECTED TOPIC
BURNING QUESTION
- 14 -
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Task 2: Identify Your Source
Your source can be anyone connected with ITT Technical Institute: a student, an instructor, an
administrator, or any employee. Generate a list of sources likely to be well informed about the topic you
have chosen as your focus. Contact your source to make an appointment for the interview. Explain what
you are doing, why, how the results will be used, and how long the interview process will take. Be polite
and professional. Remember that the source you prefer does not HAVE to cooperate with you, help you,
or consent to an interview with you. You are asking for a favor, and one that takes thought and time. A
source can decline, so think of potential alternatives.
Topic: ______________________________________________________________________
Preferred source: _____________________________________________________________
Three reasons (knowledge, expertise, qualifications) I feel this person is a strong primary source:
1. __________________________________________________________
2. __________________________________________________________
3. __________________________________________________________
Alternative source:
-15-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Task 3: Interview Your Source
About questions: There are two sorts of questions, open and closed. Closed questions can be answered
with a yes or no. They are useful for limiting dialogue or eliciting courtroom testimony, but they make poor
interview questions. Open questions are investigative questions. Many begin with words such as who,
what, where, how, and why. They can also be phrased as statements, using expressions such as “Tell me
about.”


Start with your burning question. Analyze your question:
o
Is it an open question?
o
Is it courteous and professional in tone? Does it exhibit bias, or is it even-handed?
o
Would a few preliminary questions help before pouncing on your source with this one?
Establish your source’s credentials. Use questions to:
o
Determine the depth and breadth of your source’s experience: Why should we accept
him/her as an expert?


o
Relevant school history
o
Relevant career history
o
Other relevant biographical information
Frame questions to gather information. Use questions to:
o
Elicit hard numbers and data where relevant and possible
o
Point you to reliable secondary sources of relevant information
o
Introduce potential compare/contrast pairs
Frame questions to solicit opinions. Use questions to:
o
Give your source opportunity to share opinion and perspective
o
Respond to the perspective of others
o
Share what s/he thinks is most important
o
Ask enough, but not too much

Have three to five “meaty” questions prepared.

Ask follow-up questions when necessary to clarify your understanding or to elicit more detail. This
is not an interrogation; don’t overwhelm your source with multiple, rapid-fire questions.
Submit your questions to the instructor for sign-off BEFORE the interview takes place. Questions used
without prior approval will be disallowed and you will receive a 0 for the assignment.
-16-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Interview Questions:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Instructor approval: ______________________________________________________________
Task 4: Transcribe Your Interview
The transcription of an interview is the record of the information provided by the primary source. You will
submit your transcript with your essay. An interview can be transcribed from notes or from an audio
recording. If you wish to record your interview, please ask your source’s permission first, and respect
his/her wishes. Transcribing an interview can be difficult and requires precise listening skills, patience,
and careful editing. An hour-long interview can easily take 4 to 6 hours to transcribe. Make sure you allow
enough time to transcribe your interview accurately. Follow these transcription guidelines:

Place a header on your transcription with the name of the interviewer, name of the
interviewee, date, and subject.

When transcribing, write exactly what you hear. Worry about spelling and grammar later. If
you are taking notes, it helps to have two people doing so, to be able to compare afterward and
be sure to capture information as accurately as possible. A recording gives you the luxury of
listening to the primary source repeatedly.

Abbreviate speakers’ names with capital initials, followed by a semicolon. (For example, if
Susie Marks Watt is being interviewed by Brad Pitt, her name would be abbreviated SMW, his
would be abbreviated BP, and the transcription might look like this:
BP: Where do you teach? SMW: At ITT Tech.

Type in block paragraph format, leaving space after each speaker. When you finish transcribing,
read what you wrote and review your notes, or play the tape as you read what you wrote. Check
for and correct any errors or omissions.

Edit out fillers such as um, uh, hmmm, etc.
-17-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Task 5: “Spotlight On” Essay
The essay you produce will demonstrate your ability to gather evidence from a primary source and use it
effectively to support a claim. Look back at your burning question, and review the transcription of your
interview. Was your question answered? What of value and importance did you learn from your source?
Use the information you gathered to craft a claim, which you will present in the introductory paragraph of
your essay. Support that claim with evidence gathered from your source. Use at least two direct or
indirect quotations from your source in the body of your paper.
Deliverable Requirements

Transcript of interview with primary source submitted in MS Word using 12-pt. Times New Roman
font.

One-page “Spotlight On” essay, submitted in MS Word using 12-pt. Times New Roman font.
-18-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Unit 8 Assignment 1: Spotlight On: Written Reflection
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Use argument strategies, both traditional and consensual, to develop, communicate, and defend
a position in a variety of communication formats.
Assignment Requirements
By now, you have completed at least some, if not all, of the tasks associated with the Spotlight On:
Primary Source assignment. It is time to reflect on your experience in completing those tasks and to
summarize your thoughts about working with a primary source, working in a group on a writing project,
and the learning that has been accomplished as you participated in this process.
Submission Requirements:

A well-thought-out and appropriately organized, one-page essay in which you analyze and
discuss your individual experience with the Unit 7 Spotlight On: Primary Source assignment. At
minimum, your reflection essay should include:
o
What you learned from this assignment, or what you have learned so far, about the
information you wanted to obtain, about your source and about interviewing and writing.
o
What you have learned about your team members, your experience of working in a group
to complete this assignment, and how you divided the work to be done.
o
How working with a primary source compared to what you expected.

Complete this assignment as a MS Word document using 12-pt. Times New Roman font.

Be sure to include your identifying information such as name and course section on all submitted
assignments.

Your instructor will assess and grade this assignment using the following criteria:
A: Completed all tasks with excellence, to or beyond specified requirements
B: Completed all tasks to specified requirements; one or two small details may be missing, or
there may be minor errors in spelling or grammar
C: Completed most tasks to specified requirements
D: Did not complete most tasks as specified
F: Failed to turn in assignment
-19-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Unit 8 Assignment 2: Visual Argument Analysis
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Differentiate and evaluate competing arguments.
Assignment Requirements
Locate a visual argument in the form of a print advertisement or a political cartoon. One good source of
recent political cartoons is www.cagle.com. Make a copy of your visual argument to turn in with your
assignment. Review the Summary charts on pages 451-463 in your textbook. Select and apply any one of
the tools of argument analysis we have studied in this class to conduct an analysis of your selected ad or
cartoon that includes a visual argument. Create a two-paragraph essay to summarize your analysis.
Submission Requirements

Complete this assignment as a MS Word document using 12-pt. Times New Roman font.

Be sure to include your identifying information such as name and course section on all submitted
assignments.

Your instructor will assess and grade this assignment using the following criteria:
A: Completed all tasks with excellence, to or beyond specified requirements
B: Completed all tasks to specified requirements; one or two small details may be missing, or
there may be minor errors in spelling or grammar
C: Completed most tasks to specified requirements
D: Did not complete most tasks as specified
F: Failed to turn in assignment
-20-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Unit 9 Assignment 1: Rogerian Argument Paper
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Use argument strategies, both traditional and consensual, to develop, communicate, and defend
a position in a variety of communication formats.
Assignment Requirements
Select one of the “hot-button” issues the class identified during the Unit 9 brainstorming session. Choose
an issue you have argued about or heard discussed before. Be sure to choose an issue you care about
and about which you hold an opinion. Write a letter regarding this issue. Think of your audience as
someone who holds an opinion opposed to your own. Using the goals and strategies of Rogerian
argument, compose your letter with the intent to reach an agreement on the issue. Use the Evaluation
Sheet for Rogerian Argument Paper on page 293 of your text to assist you in organizing your letter.
Your letter should be a minimum of one page in length.
Submission Requirements

Complete this assignment as a MS Word document using 12-pt. Times New Roman font.

Be sure to include your identifying information such as name and course section on all submitted
assignments.

Your instructor will assess and grade this assignment using the following criteria:
A: Completed all tasks with excellence, to or beyond specified requirements
B: Completed all tasks to specified requirements; one or two small details may be missing, or
there may be minor errors in spelling or grammar
C: Completed most tasks to specified requirements
D: Did not complete most tasks as specified
F: Failed to turn in assignment
-21-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Presentation
Unit 10 Presentation 1: Final Project Presentation
Purpose
You will deliver an oral presentation of the final project paper accompanied by a PowerPoint presentation.
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Use standard argument strategies to develop, communicate, and defend a position in a variety of
communication formats.

Differentiate and evaluate competing arguments.

Apply standard writing conventions to research papers that evaluate the strengths, weaknesses,
risks, and benefits of competing perspectives and complex problems.
Required Resources

Textbook

Notes

Previously completed project assignments
Project Logistics
Your instructor will set the due date for your presentation.
Deliverables
Develop and present a 10- to 15-minute presentation of your final project using 6 to 10 prepared Microsoft
PowerPoint slides developed from the project elements you created previously. You will be graded and
assessed on the written and oral portions of your presentation according to the rubric provided on the
following page.
-22-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Grading Rubric: Oral Presentation with PowerPoint
Assessment A
Categories STRONG
B
EFFECTIVE
C-D
DEVELOPING/
EMERGING
F
NOT THERE
YET
Ideas
Key Q: Did the presenter get the main points across in a clear, memorable way?
Slides and narration
Slides and narration
Slides and narration
Slides and/or narration
are unclear,
convey the main ideas cover the main ideas
convey main ideas
effectively with
satisfactorily.
somewhat clearly.
uninteresting, or do
interest and style.
not address main
ideas adequately.
Organization Key Q: Can the audience understand and easily follow the ideas in the order and form in which
they are presented?
Slides are well ordered, Slides are
Slides could be
Slides are poorly
satisfactorily
more
and narration clearly
ordered
effectively
ordered, narration is
and effectively conveys and narration conveys organized. Order of
confusing, out of order,
the main ideas in
main ideas adequately presentation
out of synch with
logical order.
and in reasonable
satisfactory but
slides.
order.
could be improved
upon for better
flow and clarity.
Voice/Register Key Q: Do the slides and narration keep your interest and attention, and target the audience
effectively?
Slides and narration
Slides and
Slides and narration
Slides and narration
somewhat effective
may be unclear,
work together to
narration connect
connect well with
reasonably well
in connecting with
inappropriate, or fail
audience. Some
to connect with
audience. Excellent
with intended
language and
audience.
choice of language
audience.
vocabulary choices
and vocabulary.
Language is
could be improved.
Clearly spoken, with
appropriate.
professionalism and
interest.
Visuals
Key Q: Do the images used convey a clear and interesting picture of the ideas?
Visuals are used
Visuals generally
Visuals may be
Well-chosen visuals
effectively carry the
appropriately to
functional and
ineffective or
convey the
appropriate but
inappropriate.
message in a
message
and
add
unexciting
or
precise, interesting,
interest.
nonspecific. Some
and effective way.
picture choices
may not work well.
Conventions
How much editing and practice is necessary to make this presentation really ready to share?
Excellent command of Minor problems with
Noticeable and
Frequent errors make
spelling, grammar,
narration, spelling,
somewhat
the narration and/or
punctuation. No
grammar, or
distracting errors in
text difficult to read
errors. Narration
punctuation.
narration, spelling,
and understand.
clearly articulated and
grammar, or
grammatically
punctuation.
correct.
-23-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Research Paper
Unit 11 Research Paper 1: Final Paper Submission (PORTFOLIO)
Final Project Requirements
Using peer and instructor review on project deliverables developed throughout the course, students will
produce a polished final position or proposal paper demonstrating sound principles of argumentation.
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Use argument strategies, both traditional and consensual, to develop, communicate, and defend
a position in a variety of communication formats.

Differentiate and evaluate competing arguments.

Apply standard writing conventions to research papers that evaluate the strengths, weaknesses,
risks, and benefits of competing perspectives and complex problems.
Required Resources

Textbook

Notes

Peer reviews/instructor feedback on previously completed Project Assignments
Deliverable Requirements

Researched paper, minimum of four pages exclusive of cover page, supporting visuals, and
works cited page.

Complete this assignment as a MS Word document, Times New Roman, 12 pt. font and be sure
to include your identifying information such as name and course section on all submitted
assignments.

Papers will be graded according to the rubric on the following pages.
-24-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Grading Rubric: Final Project – Researched Position or Proposal Paper
Assessment
Categories
A
STRONG
B
EFFECTIVE
C-D
DEVELOPING/
F
NOT THERE
EMERGING
Ideas
Organization
Evidence and
Sources
YET
Key Q: Did the writer lay out the issue well and state the claim effectively?
Claim effectively and
Claim is clearly
Conveys claim
Claim vague or fails to
clearly stated, support related. Offers
somewhat clearly,
convey; may not
well-chosen and
understandable and
and offers adequate
provide adequate
presented. Clear and
reasonable support of support for claim.
support for claim.
interesting
claim. Ably conveys
May lack interest,
May lack focus,
explanation of the
writer’s opinion and
focus, or sufficiency of depart from topic,
writer’s opinions and
perspective and
explanation. May not
deal poorly with
opposing viewpoint
satisfactorily presents represent other
opposing
and perspective.
opposing views.
points of view. May
perspectives, or
Persuasive and
Persuasive.
lack persuasiveness.
exhibit logical fallacy.
compelling.
Fails to persuade.
Key Q: Is the paper well-constructed, and written with strong paragraphs, smooth transitions and
logical connections?
Excellent paragraph
Well-ordered
Paragraphs convey
Paragraphs are
structure, with strong paragraphs convey
the main idea. Unity
disjointed, unclear,
and well-supported
the main ideas clearly. and coherence can be poorly ordered, or
topic sentences.
Logically organized.
improved.
ineffective. Needs
Exhibits both unity
Satisfactorily formed
Organization could be work to achieve unity
and coherence.
paragraphs.
tighter. Use of
and coherence.
Strongly organized
Satisfactorily unified
transitions and
Organization not
with logical
and coherent. Good
connectors needs
apparent or not
connections. Excellent use of transitions and work. Body
working well.
introduction, strong
logical connections.
paragraphs lack order. Introduction or
body paragraphs, and Satisfactory
Introduction or
conclusion may be
effective conclusion.
introduction, body,
conclusion may be
absent. Body may be
and conclusion.
missing.
poorly ordered or
connected.
Key Q: Is the argument well-supported?
Points of argument
effective and readily
followed. Support
compelling and
targeted. Sources
sound and verifiable.
Counter arguments
treated with
understanding.
Information
appropriately cited.
No logical fallacies
evident.
Argument logically
ordered and
organized. Counter
arguments treated
appropriately.
Support sufficient, for
major points. Sources
appropriately cited
and acceptable in
number and quality.
Adequately
presented. No logical
fallacies.
-25-
Support could be
improved. Proof may
be lacking in power,
specificity, or logic,
and may be
insufficient to
persuade reader.
Counter argument
may not be given
sufficient attention.
May exhibit fallacy in
one or two points of
support.
Argument
inadequate, logically
flawed, or difficult to
follow. Support
absent, off topic, or
insufficient. Sources
may not be
appropriately credited
or effectively
employed. Poor
treatment or absence
of information on
counter arguments.
01/26/2012
Composition II
Word Choice
Sentence
Fluency
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Key Q: Is the vocabulary suited to the task?
Vivid vocabulary and
Words are used
selective detail give
correctly and
the reader a wealth of appropriately to
information and
convey ideas.
insight into the
writer’s point of view
and ideas.
Word choice generally Words may be
functional but may be repetitive, incorrectly
generic or
used, or
nonspecific. Some
inappropriate.
word choices may not
work well. Some
terms may not be
explained.
Key Q: Does the writing flow smoothly from sentence to sentence when you read it aloud?
Well-built sentences
move the reader from
point to point.
Conventions
In general, the text
flows smoothly and
gets the job done.
Some sentences may
Sentences are not
be choppy,
well-formed and need
incomplete, or
additional work to
awkward.
flow.
Key Q: How much editing is necessary to make this essay clean, clear, correct, and complete?
Clear and wellMinor problems with
Noticeable and
Frequent and/or
written. Excellent
spelling, grammar, or
somewhat distracting significant errors
command of spelling,
punctuation.
errors in spelling,
make the text difficult
grammar,
grammar, or
to read and
punctuation. No
punctuation.
understand.
errors.
-26-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Project
Unit 5 Project Part 1: Research Outline
Purpose
Students will generate a research outline to ensure a targeted and appropriate approach to the collection
of support for the Final Project claim.
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Use argument strategies, both traditional and consensual, to develop, communicate, and defend
a position in a variety of communication formats.

Differentiate and evaluate competing arguments.

Apply standard writing conventions to research papers that evaluate the strengths, weaknesses,
risks, and benefits of competing perspectives and complex problems.
Required Resources

Textbook

Working Claim worksheet

Class notes
Project Logistics
This worksheet will help you to organize and plan the research necessary for your final project, a
Researched Position or Proposal Paper. Before beginning your outline, review Chapter 3, pages 81-82,
and Chapter 11, pages 324-329, in your text. Your research outline will be based on the research plan
laid out in Box 11.1 on page 329.
Deliverable Requirements

Complete this assignment as a MS Word document, Times New Roman, 12 pt. font and be sure
to include your identifying information such as name and course section on all submitted
assignments.

Your outline must include the following completed sections:
1. Statement of claim
a. Reasons for claim
2. Key words and terms to research and define
a. Term
3. Research needs for my claim
a. Types of evidence I will look for to support my claim
i. Type of evidence
-27-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
1. How it will support my claim
4. Research needs for counter-claim(s)
a. Statement of counter-claim
i. Type of evidence that might support this claim
1. How I will respond to or rebut this evidence?
5. Plan for first draft
a. Section content (for each section)
i. Questions, concerns, things to watch for

Your instructor will assess and grade this assignment using the following criteria:
A: Completed all tasks with excellence, to or beyond specified requirements
B: Completed all tasks to specified requirements; one or two small details may be missing, or
there may be minor errors in spelling or grammar
C: Completed most tasks to specified requirements
D: Did not complete most tasks as specified
F: Failed to turn in assignment
-28-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Unit 6 Project Part 2: Annotated Bibliography
Purpose
Students will research sources for the Final Project research paper and create an annotated bibliography
to assist in determining how those sources will be used to support the claim.
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Collect, analyze, organize, and synthesize information from both primary and secondary sources.

Conduct a targeted Internet search for sources using Boolean operators.

Use the ITT Tech Virtual Library to research selected topics.
Required Resources

Textbook

Working Claim Worksheet

Class notes
Project Logistics
1. Carefully review pages 341 to 343 of Chapter 11.
2. Review the example of an annotated bibliography on pages 350 to 352.
3. Perform both a web search and a search using the ITT Tech Virtual Library.
4. Collect a minimum of five quality sources about your issue. Make sure your sources are reputable
and that they represent a variety of perspectives on your issue.
5. Collect all of the information you need to cite the sources according to APA style guidelines, using
pages 397 to 419 of your text as a reference.
6. Survey, skim, and read parts of each source.
7. Create a citation for each source according to APA style.
8. Below each citation, write a brief summary of the information the source provides for your
response and an indication of the way you plan to use the source in your paper.
Deliverable Requirements
A final annotated bibliography for use with your final project, showing a minimum of five sources.
Complete this assignment as a MS Word document, Times New Roman, 12 pt. font and be sure to
include your identifying information such as name and course section on all submitted assignments.
-29-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Unit 7 Project Part 3: Opposing Sides
Purpose
This assignment provides you the opportunity to organize and draft your argument, and to examine the
opposition to your argument. Remember that the better you understand your opposition, the more
effective you will be in rebuttal of opposition arguments and in finding any common ground with the
opposing side. The writing you produce for this assignment will provide key body paragraphs for your final
project paper.
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Use argument strategies, both traditional and consensual, to develop, communicate, and defend
a position in a variety of communication formats.

Differentiate and evaluate competing arguments.

Apply standard writing conventions to research papers that evaluate the strengths, weaknesses,
risks, and benefits of competing perspectives and complex problems.
Required Resources

Textbook

Notes

Annotated bibliography
Deliverable Requirements
PART I: Your Initial Position Paper
Write a one-page paper presenting claims, sub claims, and the appropriate support for your initial position
on an issue of your choosing.

Using your research, develop well-written paragraphs presenting the evidence-based support for
your claim.

Remember to follow APA guidelines for citation when using direct or indirect quotes or
summarizing source material.

Review, edit, and refine your paper before submitting it to the instructor.

Submit your final paper in MS Word using 12-pt. Times New Roman font.
-30-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
PART II: Opposing Position
Write a one-page paper presenting claims, sub claims, and the appropriate support for the opposing position
on an issue of your choosing.

Using your research, develop well-written paragraphs presenting the evidence-based support for
the opposing claim.

Remember to follow APA guidelines for citation when using direct or indirect quotes or
summarizing source material.

Review, edit, and refine your paper before submitting to instructor.

Submit your final paper in MS Word using 12-pt. Times New Roman font.
-31-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Unit 8 Project Part 4: First Draft Final Paper
Purpose
Following a Peer Review Team feedback session, you will use your outline, research notes, annotated
bibliography, and opposing sides preparatory essays to create a first draft of your final project paper.
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Use argument strategies, both traditional and consensual, to develop, communicate, and defend
a position in a variety of communication formats.

Differentiate and evaluate competing arguments.

Apply standard writing conventions to research papers that evaluate the strengths, weaknesses,
risks, and benefits of competing perspectives and complex problems.
Required Resources

Textbook

Notes

Previously completed Project Assignments
Deliverable Requirements

One well-argued position or proposal paper, minimum of four pages, not counting the title page,
works cited page, and any supporting visuals.

Create your paper in a word processing program using Times New Roman, 12 pt. font with
double spacing.


Your paper must:
o
Clearly present claim and any subclaims
o
Provide researched support for the claim in proper APA style
o
Discuss opposing viewpoint(s) and support
o
Argue persuasively in a manner appropriate to your audience for your claim
o
Incorporate correctly cited information from researched sources
o
Demonstrate logical and effective organization
Your instructor will assess and grade this assignment using the following criteria:
A: Completed all tasks with excellence, to or beyond specified requirements
B: Completed all tasks to specified requirements; one or two small details may be missing, or
there may be minor errors in spelling or grammar
C: Completed most tasks to specified requirements
D: Did not complete most tasks as specified
F: Failed to turn in assignment
-32-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Unit 9 Project Part 5: Storyboard for Presentation
Purpose
Following a Peer Review Team discussion session, you will use your outline, research notes, annotated
bibliography, and opposing sides preparatory essays to create a PowerPoint presentation to accompany
the oral presentation of your final project paper.
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Use argument strategies, both traditional and consensual, to develop, communicate, and defend
a position in a variety of communication formats.

Make an oral presentation of research findings, individually and in a group.
Required Resources

Textbook

Notes

Previously completed Project Assignments
Deliverables and Submission Requirements

Create a 10-slide or two- to three-page presentation storyboard using one of the suggested
formats below that employs appropriate visuals and best practices for effective PowerPoint
presentations. You may want to conduct an Internet search and review some tips for creating
effective presentations.

Choose on one of the following storyboarding techniques to create and submit your presentation:
o
Write an outline in MS Word using 12-pt. Times New Roman font.
o
Create a comic strip in Word or PowerPoint using textboxes and graphics to represent
each frame of your presentation.
o
Use PowerPoint slides as each page of your storyboard to outline an informative and
engaging presentation and use the notes field to draft your speaking points.
Select a storyboard method above. You will discuss your storyboard method and draft with your peer
review team, and use the storyboard as the basis for a final PowerPoint presentation you will deliver to
the class that is at least 6 and a maximum of 10 slides. Your instructor will set the due date for your oral
presentation.
-33-
01/26/2012
Composition II
GRADED ASSIGNMENTS
Unit 10 Project Part 6: Peer Review Evaluations
Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

Apply peer review and editing techniques.
Assignment Requirements
Your instructor will distribute Peer Review Team Member Evaluation forms. Read each of your peers’ final
research project paper and fill out a separate Peer Review Team Member Evaluation form for each
member of your peer review team.
Submission Requirements

Complete the handout provide by your instructor.

Your instructor will assess and grade this assignment using the following criteria:
A: Completed all tasks with excellence, to or beyond specified requirements
B: Completed all tasks to specified requirements; one or two small details may be missing, or
there may be minor errors in spelling or grammar
C: Completed most tasks to specified requirements
D: Did not complete most tasks as specified
F: Failed to turn in assignment
-34-
01/26/2012