Writing to argue (rhetorical)

Lesson Plan

1. Starter - What's in an argument? - Duration 5-10 mins

Episode	Learning Objectives	Resources
Students consider what elements are the most important in constructing a sound argument. In pairs students state the case for the elements which they believe to be most important.	Understand how to construct a sound argument	Optional video at http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=teMlv3ripSM (28/1/2009)

Teacher Notes: 1. Starter - What's in an argument?

2. The Iraq War - Duration 5-15 mins

Episode	Learning Objectives	Resources
Students are introduced to the Iraq War and its outcome. The MOD's ongoing role in Iraq is explained.	Understand the Iraq war and the MOD's ongoing role in the country	Slides Student Worksheet 1

Teacher Notes: 2. The Iraq War

3. Why writing to argue? - Duration 10 mins

Episode	Learning Objectives	Resources
Students consider the purpose of writing to argue and the techniques available to them.	Revise topic and ensure a common knowledge base for following activities.	Slides

Teacher Notes: 3. Why writing to argue?

4. Analysis of text and understanding the author's craft - Duration 10-30 mins

Episode	Learning Objectives	Resources
Students analyse one of two recent parliamentary speeches and consider the rhetorical techniques employed to present the argument for or against ongoing British military presence in Iraq.	Analyse media text. Consider language structure and variation. Understand an author's craft.	Student Worksheet 2-3 Slides

Teacher Notes: 4. Analysis of text and understanding the author's craft

5. Compare and contrast - Duration 25 mins

Episode	Learning Objectives	Resources
Students use key points discussed in Episode 3 to write a comparative analysis of the first and second speech considering how effectively each speaker conveys his stance and what this evokes in the listener. A writing frame supports this activity.	Plan and draft writing. Develop a logical case. Select language appropriate for a task. Develop key points to support an argument.	Student Worksheet 2-4

Teacher Notes: 5. Compare and contrast

6. Plenary - A successful argument? - Duration 10-20 mins

Episode	Learning Objectives	Resources
In pairs, students summarise key considerations, techniques and processes involved in constructing a written argument. In pairs students list words which are useful when writing to argue before feeding back as a class.	Reflect on key knowledge, skills and understanding in constructing an argument. Measure success of the argument.	n/a

Teacher Notes: 6. Plenary - A successful argument?

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