CR Reading Responce 11/1/09

This section of the reading is referring to starting a paper and organizing conflicting data. The first half of the paper addresses a common problem that student writers run into, which is organizing their data and wading through the arguments which often contradict each other. Their advice is to evaluate each piece of evidence and apply it to the argument, keeping in mind that you are writing an argument paper and have to prove your point. The way this excerpt is phrased though, seems like it could lead to too much exclusion of the opposing side. It's important to mention the other side's main points and then find a way to either, a) show why your side is more right, or b) show why the other side is wrong. This may seem like the same thing but it isn't. It's also easier to use b), but both parts are important though. It's always important to mention the opposing side for a sound argument paper.

The second part refers to introductions. Its cautioning students against generalized intros, saying a more specific one caries more weight. It suggests different templates for starting a paper like anecdote...quote...etc. What it doesn't seem to mention though is that intros should define the theme of your paper. This is why writing intros is so difficult. Anyone can spin off a story. In good papers though, I've found that, say an anecdote, will be tied in through out the story and isn't standing in the intro, a lone soldier, never being mentioned anywhere else. The intro has to make a point, not just hook the reader. This is where I disagree with the text. The text's suggestion leads to a very overused, cliche, form of writing with is frankly quite boring and unoriginal.

The text also discusses putting yourself and your opinions into the paper. This really is up to the writer to decide and the tone of the topic. Use how you like, but make it sound intelligent. Avoiding "I" usually makes it easier.