February 28

Today, we responded to a quote about research on the Web for writing into the day.  Then, we discussed the Annotated Bibliography assignment.  After discussing the Annotated Bibliography, we read the pages 220-225 and the blue box at the top of page 235 in Practical Argument.  In groups, we designed "cheat sheets" for sections we read and presented them to the class.

Finally, we watched a video about the Primerica Scam and discussed whether it was credible:

How is the video credible?

• They listed their own experiences.
• They listed facts.
• They showed actual employees.
• They have been in business for 36 years.
• They showed what the people against them said.
• They gave you a choice - you can believe them or not.
• The video quality was good.

How could they make the video more credible?

• Go into more detail.
• Explain what the company does.
• Show employee backgrounds.
• How long have they worked there?
• What are their names?
• What are their positions?
• Have more empathy for those who aren't making money.
• Show support for the fact they showed.  Where did they get those facts?

Homework:

• Post the answers to the "Self Assessment Reflection" handout on your blog before class on Tuesday.
• Post your second draft of your Visual Analysis to your blog before class on Tuesday.
• Post your second draft of your Visual Analysis to Blackboard before class on Tuesday.  Post it in the discussion forum called "POST YOUR VISUAL ANALYSIS DRAFT HERE." If you do not turn in the essay on Blackboard before class on Tuesday, you will receive a zero for this assignment.

Note: On Tuesday, we will meet in Room 3120 in the library.