After reading John McCains actual concession speech I found that there are things that I found effective and some thing that I found to be ineffective. The beginning of his speech revolves around congradulating president elect, Barack Obama, on his momentous victory. I found McCains words very effective and inspiring. Rather than just congradulating Obama, McCain goes further to describe what a historic event had just taken place and that he is proud of Obama's ability to inspire the hopes of millions of Americans. I think this part of the speech is especially effective because at no point does McCain sound bitter about his defeat. I would like to use this in our speech because I believe it shows the maturity and respect that John McCain truly has for America and all Americans. I also like his historical reference to Booker T. Washington being invited to dine at the whitehouse, and how far we have come since then. Rather than focusing on his defeat and surface level compliments to Obama, he chooses to point out to his supporters that this outcome should not be viewed in sadness but as an amazing step forward for our nation. I think using quotes and stories like this would be a very effective way to reach our audience.
I also found it interesting and unique how he told the audience that he blames himself for not winning the election, not the voters. I think it is effective because it makes him likeable. He is placing the blame on himself rather than letting his supporters believe they failed him. In the next section on the speech he mentions Sarah Palin and her effort in the campaign. While his words were very sincere, I think that in our speech we should spend more time talking about her contribution. I think that she was a very vital part of the compaign, both good and bad, and I think adding in more about her would be effective.
I love the ending of his speech because he really portrays how grateful he was just to be a part of this election. I think it is admirable that he can see past defeat and comprehend the priviledge he has had to run for this high office. Overall, I think this speech is more effective than most others I have heard.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Franklin D. Roosevelt's War Message, Asking Congress to Declare War on Japan
Yesterday, December 7, 1941—a date which will live in infamy—the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.
The United States was at peace with that nation and, at the solicitation of Japan, was still in conversation with its Government and its Emperor looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific.
Indeed, one hour after Japanese air squadrons had commenced bombing Oahu, the Japanese Ambassador to the United States and his colleague delivered to the Secretary of State a formal reply to a recent American message. While this reply stated that it seemed useless to continue the existing diplomatic negotiations, it contained no threat or hint of war or armed attack.
It will be recorded that the distance of Hawaii from Japan makes it obvious that the attack was deliberately planned many days or even weeks ago. During the intervening time, the Japanese Government has deliberately sought to deceive the United States by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace. The attack yesterday on the Hawaiian Islands has caused severe damage to American naval and military forces. Very many American lives have been lost. In addition, American ships have been reported torpedoed on the high seas between San Francisco and Honolulu.
Yesterday the Japanese Government also launched an attack against Malaya.
Last night Japanese forces attacked Hong Kong.
Last night Japanese forces attacked Guam.
Last night Japanese forces attacked the Philippine Islands.
Last night the Japanese attacked Wake Island.
This morning the Japanese attacked Midway Island.
Japan has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive extending throughout the Pacific area. The facts of yesterday speak for themselves. The people of the United States have already formed their opinions and well understand the implications to the very life and safety of our nation.
As Commander in Chief of the army and navy I have directed that all measures be taken for our defense.
Always will we remember the character of the onslaught against us.
No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory. I believe I interpret the will of the Congress and of the people when I assert that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost but will make very certain that this form of treachery shall never endanger us again.
Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact that our people, our territory and our interests are in grave danger.
With confidence in our armed forces—with the unbounding determination of our people—we will gain the inevitable triumph—so help us God.
I ask that the Congress declare that since the unprovoked and dastardly attack by Japan on Sunday, December 7, a state of war has existed between the United States and the Japanese Empire.
When I googled famous presidential speeches this first one to catch my eye was President Roosevelt's address concerning the attack on Pearl Harbor. Given that I could say the first line of this speech in my head without even reading it reminds me of how important this moment in history was. There was no humor incorporated into this speech, mainly because it was given due to such a tragic event. Roosevelt uses pathos and logos to convince Congress that a horrible thing had taken place and that the U.S. must take action.
Yesterday, December 7, 1941—a date which will live in infamy—the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.
The United States was at peace with that nation and, at the solicitation of Japan, was still in conversation with its Government and its Emperor looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific.
Indeed, one hour after Japanese air squadrons had commenced bombing Oahu, the Japanese Ambassador to the United States and his colleague delivered to the Secretary of State a formal reply to a recent American message. While this reply stated that it seemed useless to continue the existing diplomatic negotiations, it contained no threat or hint of war or armed attack.
It will be recorded that the distance of Hawaii from Japan makes it obvious that the attack was deliberately planned many days or even weeks ago. During the intervening time, the Japanese Government has deliberately sought to deceive the United States by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace. The attack yesterday on the Hawaiian Islands has caused severe damage to American naval and military forces. Very many American lives have been lost. In addition, American ships have been reported torpedoed on the high seas between San Francisco and Honolulu.
Yesterday the Japanese Government also launched an attack against Malaya.
Last night Japanese forces attacked Hong Kong.
Last night Japanese forces attacked Guam.
Last night Japanese forces attacked the Philippine Islands.
Last night the Japanese attacked Wake Island.
This morning the Japanese attacked Midway Island.
Japan has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive extending throughout the Pacific area. The facts of yesterday speak for themselves. The people of the United States have already formed their opinions and well understand the implications to the very life and safety of our nation.
As Commander in Chief of the army and navy I have directed that all measures be taken for our defense.
Always will we remember the character of the onslaught against us.
No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory. I believe I interpret the will of the Congress and of the people when I assert that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost but will make very certain that this form of treachery shall never endanger us again.
Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact that our people, our territory and our interests are in grave danger.
With confidence in our armed forces—with the unbounding determination of our people—we will gain the inevitable triumph—so help us God.
I ask that the Congress declare that since the unprovoked and dastardly attack by Japan on Sunday, December 7, a state of war has existed between the United States and the Japanese Empire.
When I googled famous presidential speeches this first one to catch my eye was President Roosevelt's address concerning the attack on Pearl Harbor. Given that I could say the first line of this speech in my head without even reading it reminds me of how important this moment in history was. There was no humor incorporated into this speech, mainly because it was given due to such a tragic event. Roosevelt uses pathos and logos to convince Congress that a horrible thing had taken place and that the U.S. must take action.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Sources
So far I think I want to write my paper about what will happen to our country in regards to taxes. I know this sounds like a very boring topic but I feel that it is such a huge issue and I would like to learn more about how tax prices effect the different classes of Americans. I tried to narrow down this topic and arrived at John McCain's tax plan. I'm not sure if this is quite narrowed down enough but I want to focus on how his vision, if implemented, would effect the lower and upper income families in America. But at the same time I am also interested in how Obama's plan will effect us, so I may end up changing my mind. My sources for class today are both from the official McCain website. One outlines the basics of what exactly John McCain proposed to do in regards to taxes and why he thinks this will benefit our country. The other source is a speech given by McCain where he talks about the difference between Obama's and his own plan.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Use of Arguments Within the Portfolio
Each of the three pieces within my portfolio present different ways of arguing. The arguments are all about the same general topic but are argued differently because of the context to which they are written.
In the letter to the editor the main focus is the credibility of the author of the original op-ed. There is also a difference in the way the letter to the editor is written. People reading my letter will have already read the original article, this allows me to make very specific arguments without having to go in depth about background.
When writing my own op-ed article was comparably easier than writing the letter to the editor. Rather than challenge someone else's argument, I was able to formulate my own. While writing this article I tried to focus on only the things I could backup with evidence. Therefore, my article is generally focused on her known accomplishments.
The humor portion of the portfolio was the most difficult argument to make. Some people are naturally good at creating humor pieces, I on the other hand am horrible at it. I think that humor as an argument is a very effective method if done correctly. Subjects that are usually heated arguments can be portrayed with out the negative response.
In the letter to the editor the main focus is the credibility of the author of the original op-ed. There is also a difference in the way the letter to the editor is written. People reading my letter will have already read the original article, this allows me to make very specific arguments without having to go in depth about background.
When writing my own op-ed article was comparably easier than writing the letter to the editor. Rather than challenge someone else's argument, I was able to formulate my own. While writing this article I tried to focus on only the things I could backup with evidence. Therefore, my article is generally focused on her known accomplishments.
The humor portion of the portfolio was the most difficult argument to make. Some people are naturally good at creating humor pieces, I on the other hand am horrible at it. I think that humor as an argument is a very effective method if done correctly. Subjects that are usually heated arguments can be portrayed with out the negative response.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Example of Humor
http://www.theonion.com/content/whitehousewar/sarahpalin
I found this page on theonion.com. The page basically gives some quotes or funny facts from Palin then it has a section on key issues. I find the site effective with its humorous tone mainly because it points out Sarah Palin's flaws without the usual angry response. If some of those things were said in just an op-ed or magazine I don't think it would go over well with many readers. Most of the points are meaningless in real life such as "Beauty Contest Victories:1984 Miss Wasilla, 1984 Miss Alaska, 2008 Republican Vice-Presidential Nomination". Of course Palin's beauty pageants have nothing to do with being elected to vice president but used in this type of joke the statement is effective. The site goes on to show some key issues of the election, such as immigration, climate, and health care and goes on to say Sarah Palin's stance on the issue. Each of these categories mearly says "Whatever Mr. McCain thinks is best." This use of humor insinuates that Palin has no mind of her own and agrees with whatever John McCain believes. In a normal setting this may offend Palin supporters but put in this context it is funny.
I found this page on theonion.com. The page basically gives some quotes or funny facts from Palin then it has a section on key issues. I find the site effective with its humorous tone mainly because it points out Sarah Palin's flaws without the usual angry response. If some of those things were said in just an op-ed or magazine I don't think it would go over well with many readers. Most of the points are meaningless in real life such as "Beauty Contest Victories:1984 Miss Wasilla, 1984 Miss Alaska, 2008 Republican Vice-Presidential Nomination". Of course Palin's beauty pageants have nothing to do with being elected to vice president but used in this type of joke the statement is effective. The site goes on to show some key issues of the election, such as immigration, climate, and health care and goes on to say Sarah Palin's stance on the issue. Each of these categories mearly says "Whatever Mr. McCain thinks is best." This use of humor insinuates that Palin has no mind of her own and agrees with whatever John McCain believes. In a normal setting this may offend Palin supporters but put in this context it is funny.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Op-Ed
Wonder Woman
By: Danielle Denning
The big question on everyone’s mind today is whether Sarah Palin is qualified to be the next Vice President. Given that there are no specific guidelines to tell us what makes a good Vice President, a lot of people are having a hard time finding an answer to this question.
Sarah Palin made history on December 4, 2006 when she became the first woman ever elected as governor of Alaska. Foreshadowing of the future? Not only did she conquer this election, but she defeated an incumbent democratic candidate. Under her leadership, the Alaska Gas line Inducement Act (AGIA) was passed in House Bill 3001. AGIA permits TC Alaska to construct a 1,715 mile natural gas line providing America with safe and domestic sources of energy. While we all know that oil will not always be a reliable source of energy in the future, right now it is essential to our economy. Because of Sarah Palin and Alaska we have secured a reliable domestic source. Amazingly, AGIA is only one of Palin’s accomplishments in office. She is a leader of Alaska Conservation Commission, Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission, Alaska National Guard, and Governors Association National Resource Committee. Does Barak Obama do this much as Senator of Illinois?
In an MSNBC interview, former speaker of the House, Newt Gingrich was hounded about Sarah Palin’s qualifications compared to Obama. Gingrich responded that “Sarah Palin is a whistle blower who defeated an incumbent mayor and turned in the chairman of her own party and had him fined $12,000. When did Obama ever have the guts to do that?” While this response may not address Palin’s achievements, it certainly addresses her outstanding ethics.
Unfortunately, this is the very subject that has wrongly come into question in today’s news. Every last measure has been taken by Obama’s team to dig up secrets and destroy Sarah Palin’s good reputation. I find it somewhat humorous however to see how futile their attempts have been. The most democratic investigators could dig up was the Wootengate scandal. I applaud their efforts to bring down Palin and they came quite close, unfortunately for them, McCain’s camp was one step ahead.
Wootengate refers to Sarah Palin’s alleged abuse of office when she fired Public Safety Commissioner, Walt Monegan, which he claims is because he wouldn’t fire a state trooper. I will admit that her actions may be just cause for an investigation, but what Obama’s camp conveniently left out was the reason for her actions. When they leaked the scandal to the press did they forget to tell us that the state trooper in question had been tazoring his ten year old son? There are two sides to every story. Whether she abused her office or stood up for a little boy is completely a matter of opinion.
When the incident was first being investigated by a legislative inquiry in January, prior to her Vice President nomination, Palin agreed to fully co-operate. However, when the issue became more of an attack by the Democratic Party rather than a bipartisan investigation, Palin obviously changed her mind. The legislative inquiry led by Democratic senator Hollis French was said to be “planning the investigation as an ‘October Surprise’ before election day.” What exactly is nonpartisan and fair about that? In response, Palin filed a complaint against herself with the Alaska State Personnel Board, which investigates ethics complaints against executive branch employees. Going through this system will allow Palin to be fairly investigated without party intervention. Many have called her a coward, but what exactly is cowardly about refusing to be pushed around and targeted? This so called scandal has revealed more about the tricks of Obama’s campaign than it has anything about Sarah Palin’s ethics.
Sarah Palin has shown us time after time that she is capable of holding her own with the men who dominate politics. Not only does this portray much of her character but it empowers women everywhere. She is mother of five children with a 16 year reign in politics and numerous substantial achievements. What can’t she do? It’s time for Sarah Palin to make history, a second time.
Authors Note:
This is definately my first draft of the article. I didn't spend as much time as I would have liked writing it and I know there is room for a lot of improvement.
Any time of corrections or suggestions is welcome!
By: Danielle Denning
The big question on everyone’s mind today is whether Sarah Palin is qualified to be the next Vice President. Given that there are no specific guidelines to tell us what makes a good Vice President, a lot of people are having a hard time finding an answer to this question.
Sarah Palin made history on December 4, 2006 when she became the first woman ever elected as governor of Alaska. Foreshadowing of the future? Not only did she conquer this election, but she defeated an incumbent democratic candidate. Under her leadership, the Alaska Gas line Inducement Act (AGIA) was passed in House Bill 3001. AGIA permits TC Alaska to construct a 1,715 mile natural gas line providing America with safe and domestic sources of energy. While we all know that oil will not always be a reliable source of energy in the future, right now it is essential to our economy. Because of Sarah Palin and Alaska we have secured a reliable domestic source. Amazingly, AGIA is only one of Palin’s accomplishments in office. She is a leader of Alaska Conservation Commission, Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission, Alaska National Guard, and Governors Association National Resource Committee. Does Barak Obama do this much as Senator of Illinois?
In an MSNBC interview, former speaker of the House, Newt Gingrich was hounded about Sarah Palin’s qualifications compared to Obama. Gingrich responded that “Sarah Palin is a whistle blower who defeated an incumbent mayor and turned in the chairman of her own party and had him fined $12,000. When did Obama ever have the guts to do that?” While this response may not address Palin’s achievements, it certainly addresses her outstanding ethics.
Unfortunately, this is the very subject that has wrongly come into question in today’s news. Every last measure has been taken by Obama’s team to dig up secrets and destroy Sarah Palin’s good reputation. I find it somewhat humorous however to see how futile their attempts have been. The most democratic investigators could dig up was the Wootengate scandal. I applaud their efforts to bring down Palin and they came quite close, unfortunately for them, McCain’s camp was one step ahead.
Wootengate refers to Sarah Palin’s alleged abuse of office when she fired Public Safety Commissioner, Walt Monegan, which he claims is because he wouldn’t fire a state trooper. I will admit that her actions may be just cause for an investigation, but what Obama’s camp conveniently left out was the reason for her actions. When they leaked the scandal to the press did they forget to tell us that the state trooper in question had been tazoring his ten year old son? There are two sides to every story. Whether she abused her office or stood up for a little boy is completely a matter of opinion.
When the incident was first being investigated by a legislative inquiry in January, prior to her Vice President nomination, Palin agreed to fully co-operate. However, when the issue became more of an attack by the Democratic Party rather than a bipartisan investigation, Palin obviously changed her mind. The legislative inquiry led by Democratic senator Hollis French was said to be “planning the investigation as an ‘October Surprise’ before election day.” What exactly is nonpartisan and fair about that? In response, Palin filed a complaint against herself with the Alaska State Personnel Board, which investigates ethics complaints against executive branch employees. Going through this system will allow Palin to be fairly investigated without party intervention. Many have called her a coward, but what exactly is cowardly about refusing to be pushed around and targeted? This so called scandal has revealed more about the tricks of Obama’s campaign than it has anything about Sarah Palin’s ethics.
Sarah Palin has shown us time after time that she is capable of holding her own with the men who dominate politics. Not only does this portray much of her character but it empowers women everywhere. She is mother of five children with a 16 year reign in politics and numerous substantial achievements. What can’t she do? It’s time for Sarah Palin to make history, a second time.
Authors Note:
This is definately my first draft of the article. I didn't spend as much time as I would have liked writing it and I know there is room for a lot of improvement.
Any time of corrections or suggestions is welcome!
Monday, September 22, 2008
Op-Ed Venue/Audience
My target audience for this op-ed article will be college students. I think it has become apparent that college age students are very important in this years election. Candidates are focusing their campaigns towards this new demographic more and more every day with slogans like "Rock the Vote" and "Declare Yourself". I believe that students, like me and my friends, can make a huge impact on this election if we decide to get out there and vote. I don't want to sway students to vote for one candidate or another but I want to write something that will make them care about the election. As a student myself, I know that all it takes is a little nudge to get interested in what's going on with the election. If a student agrees with the point I am trying to make then maybe that will be enough to inspire them to vote. If a student disagrees with my point then even better. All it took for me to get interested was reading an article that I completely disagreed with. After that, all I wanted to do was research until I could prove the author wrong or prove myself wrong. College students have so much potential to be well informed voters and that is why I want to target them as my audience.
Because I want to target college students, I am going to publish my op-ed article in the Daily Skiff, the TCU Newspaper. I think this will be a good venue to reach students.
Because I want to target college students, I am going to publish my op-ed article in the Daily Skiff, the TCU Newspaper. I think this will be a good venue to reach students.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Arguments of Fact
The argument I'm bringing to class is called "Governor Palin Supports a New "Road to Nowhere". As you can probably guess the article is about how as governor of Alaska, Sarah Palin, supported government funding of a bridge that essentially was never needed. The Bridge to Nowhere was an attempt to create a road leading from a small town in Alaska to Anchorage. Supporters claimed the inability of residents to quickly get to a major hospital was a health hazard. I liked this article because it helped me re-affirm what I was trying to say in my letter to the editor. My point was that I don't care what side you are arguing for just give me proof. I found that the writer of this article backed up everything he had to say with legitimate facts and evidence of research. Regardless of whether I am a Democrat or Republican, I am more likely to agree with a writer who shows me why he/she is right.
The article full fills the requirements of chapter 7 in almost every aspect. The author clearly identifies the issue he wishes to discuss at the very beginning of the article. He also provides relevant facts that support his claims, not just random information to make it sound legitimate. The author gives exact amounts of money that were given to Alaska. He doesn't say they were offered a lot of money or they wanted to use a lot of land. Every single time he makes a claim it is supported with hard evidence.
The article full fills the requirements of chapter 7 in almost every aspect. The author clearly identifies the issue he wishes to discuss at the very beginning of the article. He also provides relevant facts that support his claims, not just random information to make it sound legitimate. The author gives exact amounts of money that were given to Alaska. He doesn't say they were offered a lot of money or they wanted to use a lot of land. Every single time he makes a claim it is supported with hard evidence.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Letter to the Editor
I found your September 7th editorial on John McCain’s “shotgun marriage” to Sarah Palin interestingly ironic. Within the article you boldly point out McCain’s “preference for gut instinct over facts”, yet I found no instance in your own writing of accusations backed up with proven facts or evidence of research.
I find myself perplexed, not by your unconfirmed accusations or your twisting of information, but by your constant questioning of who Sarah Palin really is. My question to you is- why not go research it yourself? So far, you and many others have defined Sarah Palin solely by unproven allegations made against her by her opponents. At first, I thought you were taking a step in the right direction by actually asking who the real Sarah Palin is. However, it then became apparent that you never had the intention of answering your own question. My guess is that you know behind all the superficial gossip, we will find Sarah Palin to be an honest hard working woman, who is very capable of being a Vice Presidential candidate.
And yes, maybe then you can finally stop wasting our time questioning whether she actually shot a moose.
I think your constant unanswered question also leads us to a deeper issue- your inability to do credible research. I will admit that I don’t know the truth about Sarah Palin’s past but how do you? Frank Rich, writer for the New York Times, how do you know more about Palin’s indiscretions than even the FBI? I am almost positive that not even they have confirmed the statements that you hold as facts in your article. Therefore, my argument with you is not what I believe Sarah Palin did or did not do, but where in the world you did your research or lack thereof.
Once again, you bring up the issue of Palin’s vetting process, I ask you- where’s the beef? You claimed that Sarah Palin’s biological details were “invented for her”. I searched the paragraph over and over and found that your only indication of proof was that “the Times had it right”. According to whom? Which FBI agent volunteered the information that Palin never got a background check? I’m not looking to prove one thing or another; however, I find that issues concerning our next president or vice president should be backed up by more than “because the Times says so”.
You so brilliantly ended your article with the statement “America loves nothing more than a new celebrity face”. Well Mr. Rich, I think I agree with you. But even more than that, I think we like our ability to take a good person and magnify every little flaw, until that good person no longer exists in the public eye.
Any writer can spread gossip in an effort to prove a point or entertain. However, it takes a courageous writer to use only what he can prove.
Authors Note:
This is definitely my first draft of writing. It's pretty much what came flying out of my head and onto a piece of paper yesterday when I sat down to write.
I'm not sure that I like how the article sounds yet. I'm happy with the content and what I am arguing just not how I go about it so far. When re-reading it I found that it sounds very judgmental and harsh and I don't think that's how I want it to come across. I think in the next draft I'm definitely going to edit a lot.
Any grammar suggestions (because I know I'm horrible at that) and any suggestions on rewording or how you think I should make it sound "nicer" would be greatly appreciated.
I find myself perplexed, not by your unconfirmed accusations or your twisting of information, but by your constant questioning of who Sarah Palin really is. My question to you is- why not go research it yourself? So far, you and many others have defined Sarah Palin solely by unproven allegations made against her by her opponents. At first, I thought you were taking a step in the right direction by actually asking who the real Sarah Palin is. However, it then became apparent that you never had the intention of answering your own question. My guess is that you know behind all the superficial gossip, we will find Sarah Palin to be an honest hard working woman, who is very capable of being a Vice Presidential candidate.
And yes, maybe then you can finally stop wasting our time questioning whether she actually shot a moose.
I think your constant unanswered question also leads us to a deeper issue- your inability to do credible research. I will admit that I don’t know the truth about Sarah Palin’s past but how do you? Frank Rich, writer for the New York Times, how do you know more about Palin’s indiscretions than even the FBI? I am almost positive that not even they have confirmed the statements that you hold as facts in your article. Therefore, my argument with you is not what I believe Sarah Palin did or did not do, but where in the world you did your research or lack thereof.
Once again, you bring up the issue of Palin’s vetting process, I ask you- where’s the beef? You claimed that Sarah Palin’s biological details were “invented for her”. I searched the paragraph over and over and found that your only indication of proof was that “the Times had it right”. According to whom? Which FBI agent volunteered the information that Palin never got a background check? I’m not looking to prove one thing or another; however, I find that issues concerning our next president or vice president should be backed up by more than “because the Times says so”.
You so brilliantly ended your article with the statement “America loves nothing more than a new celebrity face”. Well Mr. Rich, I think I agree with you. But even more than that, I think we like our ability to take a good person and magnify every little flaw, until that good person no longer exists in the public eye.
Any writer can spread gossip in an effort to prove a point or entertain. However, it takes a courageous writer to use only what he can prove.
Authors Note:
This is definitely my first draft of writing. It's pretty much what came flying out of my head and onto a piece of paper yesterday when I sat down to write.
I'm not sure that I like how the article sounds yet. I'm happy with the content and what I am arguing just not how I go about it so far. When re-reading it I found that it sounds very judgmental and harsh and I don't think that's how I want it to come across. I think in the next draft I'm definitely going to edit a lot.
Any grammar suggestions (because I know I'm horrible at that) and any suggestions on rewording or how you think I should make it sound "nicer" would be greatly appreciated.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Topic and Editorial
My topic for unit one is McCain's choice of Sarah Palin as candidate for VP. This topic includes questioning how McCain chose Palin and what this reveals about him and the truth behind accusations against Sarah Palin. The editorial I found is called "Palin and McCain's Shotgun Marriage" by Frank Rich.
I'm not completely positive on where I want to go with this topic so far but I think the controversy concerning the effort put in by McCain to research Palin is interesting. The standards of researching VP candidates for nomination is called the "vetting process". The argument in the news right now is whether McCain actually put Sarah Palin through this process or if he chose her as a spur of the moment pick. If so, what do we not know about Palin and what does this say about McCain's ability to make good choices.
I like this topic a lot because it really plays into our discussion about how facts can be manipulated to reach different conclusions. For example, the other day I read an article about how Palin unjustly used her political position to get her brother in law (or something along those lines) removed from his job as a police officer. However, when interviewed the author admitted that Palin's had done this because the brother-in-law had been using his tazor on his 6 year old son. Stories can be spun in any direction direction depending on how it is told. I think this is the case for the article I found. Many of the accusations may be true but I am interested to see how much is left out.
The article I found is focused on two major issues. The first is McCain's ability to make well thought out decisions and second, Sarah Palin's credibility as a VP.
I'm not completely positive on where I want to go with this topic so far but I think the controversy concerning the effort put in by McCain to research Palin is interesting. The standards of researching VP candidates for nomination is called the "vetting process". The argument in the news right now is whether McCain actually put Sarah Palin through this process or if he chose her as a spur of the moment pick. If so, what do we not know about Palin and what does this say about McCain's ability to make good choices.
I like this topic a lot because it really plays into our discussion about how facts can be manipulated to reach different conclusions. For example, the other day I read an article about how Palin unjustly used her political position to get her brother in law (or something along those lines) removed from his job as a police officer. However, when interviewed the author admitted that Palin's had done this because the brother-in-law had been using his tazor on his 6 year old son. Stories can be spun in any direction direction depending on how it is told. I think this is the case for the article I found. Many of the accusations may be true but I am interested to see how much is left out.
The article I found is focused on two major issues. The first is McCain's ability to make well thought out decisions and second, Sarah Palin's credibility as a VP.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Political Topics
One issue I have about this years election is the difference in campaigning strategies. I know that both candidates are putting in a lot of effort to get the younger population out there to vote. And while I think it is an amazing thing that teenagers are suddenly taking an interest in our government, in my opinion this whole election has been more of a popularity contest than anything. When Paris Hilton is the center of a campaign add and Oprah supporting Obama is headline news something has gone terribly wrong. The fact is a presidential election should be about a candidates capabilities and beliefs, not about how many celebrities support them. As a society it seems like we are more preoccupied with Sarah Palin's pregnant daughter or what designer Michelle Obama is wearing. What about Obama's stance on the war in Iraq or McCain's stance on health care?
I understand that Sarah Palin's daughter is a pregnant 17 year old, but what does that have to do with her abilities as a Vice President of the United States? Blaming Sarah Palin would be like me calling my mother and telling her it's her fault that I am pregnant and therefore, she cannot possibly be good at her job as an accountant. (Fake Scenario) Regardless, my question is what does any of this have to do with our government and how people should vote in the election?
I'm not sure that I would write an entire paper over this subject but the fact that apparently Oprah can sway millions of voters to vote for Obama is a topic I am very interested in.
The war in Iraq is one of the legitimate issues of this election that I am interested in. I will admit that I know very little about this topic compared to many other people but it is still an important issue to me. I still don't know exactly where I side on this subject.
I know that there are thousands of men and women in Iraq right now fighting and dying for Americans like me and you. Because of that I think it would be wrong to say that I don't agree with the cause they are dying for. Many people say that there is no good reason why we should be over in Iraq. My rationalization of it, as naive as it may be, is that why would hundreds of people in our government agree that it would be in America's best interest to go to war if it wasn't? I guess the relevant question of today's election would be to end the war or not. I think I would really enjoy researching what both candidates have to say about this subject and forming my opinion from there.
I understand that Sarah Palin's daughter is a pregnant 17 year old, but what does that have to do with her abilities as a Vice President of the United States? Blaming Sarah Palin would be like me calling my mother and telling her it's her fault that I am pregnant and therefore, she cannot possibly be good at her job as an accountant. (Fake Scenario) Regardless, my question is what does any of this have to do with our government and how people should vote in the election?
I'm not sure that I would write an entire paper over this subject but the fact that apparently Oprah can sway millions of voters to vote for Obama is a topic I am very interested in.
The war in Iraq is one of the legitimate issues of this election that I am interested in. I will admit that I know very little about this topic compared to many other people but it is still an important issue to me. I still don't know exactly where I side on this subject.
I know that there are thousands of men and women in Iraq right now fighting and dying for Americans like me and you. Because of that I think it would be wrong to say that I don't agree with the cause they are dying for. Many people say that there is no good reason why we should be over in Iraq. My rationalization of it, as naive as it may be, is that why would hundreds of people in our government agree that it would be in America's best interest to go to war if it wasn't? I guess the relevant question of today's election would be to end the war or not. I think I would really enjoy researching what both candidates have to say about this subject and forming my opinion from there.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Logos Argument
My argument for tomorrow is a picture of a cigarette and some of the many contents that cigarettes are made of, for example, paint, toilet cleaner, barbecue lighter, and much more. I think that this picture is obviously making the argument that smoking is bad for your health, which is probably a well known fact by now. This add is an example of logos because it boldly presents you with evidence as to the harmful products used to make cigarettes. In this case it is an argument that needs few words to get the point across.
The argument effects past, present, and future because cigarettes, or tobacco, have been a part of our culture for a very long time. A few decades ago we had no idea that cigarettes could effect our health in any way, however; now we are conducting many studies to further investigate the health issues linked to smoking. Pictures like this effect our future because they help us make better judgements about what we put in our bodies.
I think the target of this argument is pretty much everyone who has ever thought about smoking or does smoke.
It would be easy to create an argument about this topic using pathos because the topic of lung cancer and death is a sentimental topic for everyone. However, I think using logos is also a strong choice because informing people of the facts about cigarettes may sway them more.
The argument effects past, present, and future because cigarettes, or tobacco, have been a part of our culture for a very long time. A few decades ago we had no idea that cigarettes could effect our health in any way, however; now we are conducting many studies to further investigate the health issues linked to smoking. Pictures like this effect our future because they help us make better judgements about what we put in our bodies.
I think the target of this argument is pretty much everyone who has ever thought about smoking or does smoke.
It would be easy to create an argument about this topic using pathos because the topic of lung cancer and death is a sentimental topic for everyone. However, I think using logos is also a strong choice because informing people of the facts about cigarettes may sway them more.
Monday, September 1, 2008
Sample Argument #1
The argument that our group decided to use is a picture of a football player after his championship game. The man is making a celebratory gesture with his hands and appears to be jumping in the air with a smile on his face. The context of this argument is that the man in the picture played football for a team who was expected to lose the final game. Or in other words they were the underdogs. Contrary to all expectations, the team ended up winning the championship. The football player in the picture is arguing that you should never underestimate anyone or any team.
I would say that this argument could be meaningful to just about anyone, but in this instance the man is speaking to all the other teams who underestimated him. When we underestimate things we tend to not give it our all and a lot of the time we fail. This picture is a classic example of our human tendency to undervalue each other.
Another argument we looked at in our group was "Making the Grade by Eating Smart" from my school planner. This statement makes the argument that if you eat the right types of food you can make good grades in school. While there seems to be some correlation between eating healthy and doing well in school, I think the argument out reaches itself. To me "Making the Grade by Eating Smart" says that all you have to do is eat the right things and getting good grades will just happen. Regardless of this, I do think the argument is a positive message for college students and a step in the right direction.
I would say that this argument could be meaningful to just about anyone, but in this instance the man is speaking to all the other teams who underestimated him. When we underestimate things we tend to not give it our all and a lot of the time we fail. This picture is a classic example of our human tendency to undervalue each other.
Another argument we looked at in our group was "Making the Grade by Eating Smart" from my school planner. This statement makes the argument that if you eat the right types of food you can make good grades in school. While there seems to be some correlation between eating healthy and doing well in school, I think the argument out reaches itself. To me "Making the Grade by Eating Smart" says that all you have to do is eat the right things and getting good grades will just happen. Regardless of this, I do think the argument is a positive message for college students and a step in the right direction.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Introduction Blog
My name is Danielle Denning and I am a student in English 20803. I am from St. Louis, Missouri home of the wonderful Cardinals baseball team. In St. Louis I went to a private high school called MICDS and decided to come all the way to Texas because my dad went to school here a LONG time ago. I am now a sophomore at TCU and I plan on majoring in Business.
I signed up for this course because it was a requirement; however, by the end of the semester I hope to become more comfortable with writing in general. I want to be satisfied with what writing I produce and not feel that it is such a daunting task.
I feel like it has been so long since I have had to write on an every day basis in a classroom setting. I think this is what makes me feel so uncomfortable about writing an essay for a class. In high school I was confident about my essay's but I was never worried about sentence structure or grammar so it seemed to just flow onto my paper. Last year I took a composition class in which the main focus was not content but grammar and I felt lost. I was so focused on sentence structure and punctuation I felt my writing went down 3 levels and I didn't particularly like anything that I turned in. Writing for me now is usually texting or facebook, which seems like an entirely different language.
I have very little interest in politics because I find political conversations unpleasant. I personally believe that when talking about politics many people forget the meaning of the word opinion. your personal opinion is what you believe, who am I to tell you what you believe in is wrong? There will never be a day when every singe person in our country agrees on one thing, therefore I think we should learn to respect each other's opinions rather than tear them down. I guess what I'm saying is not that I hate the political system, but what it compels people to do and say. However, I am excited to discuss this topic in class because it seems like a controlled environment where we are more likely to accept each others differing opinions. And since I really don't know a lot about politics and the presidential candidates it will be a good place to learn more.
Through my design choices of my blog I think I am making the argument that blogs can be fun. The bright colors made me feel more upbeat when I began to write. However; this is only my first time blogging and I think later on in the semester my page will have more personality than it does now.
I have read, understand, and agree to the terms of the course syllabus.
I signed up for this course because it was a requirement; however, by the end of the semester I hope to become more comfortable with writing in general. I want to be satisfied with what writing I produce and not feel that it is such a daunting task.
I feel like it has been so long since I have had to write on an every day basis in a classroom setting. I think this is what makes me feel so uncomfortable about writing an essay for a class. In high school I was confident about my essay's but I was never worried about sentence structure or grammar so it seemed to just flow onto my paper. Last year I took a composition class in which the main focus was not content but grammar and I felt lost. I was so focused on sentence structure and punctuation I felt my writing went down 3 levels and I didn't particularly like anything that I turned in. Writing for me now is usually texting or facebook, which seems like an entirely different language.
I have very little interest in politics because I find political conversations unpleasant. I personally believe that when talking about politics many people forget the meaning of the word opinion. your personal opinion is what you believe, who am I to tell you what you believe in is wrong? There will never be a day when every singe person in our country agrees on one thing, therefore I think we should learn to respect each other's opinions rather than tear them down. I guess what I'm saying is not that I hate the political system, but what it compels people to do and say. However, I am excited to discuss this topic in class because it seems like a controlled environment where we are more likely to accept each others differing opinions. And since I really don't know a lot about politics and the presidential candidates it will be a good place to learn more.
Through my design choices of my blog I think I am making the argument that blogs can be fun. The bright colors made me feel more upbeat when I began to write. However; this is only my first time blogging and I think later on in the semester my page will have more personality than it does now.
I have read, understand, and agree to the terms of the course syllabus.
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