A 1000-word Definition/Categorical Argument based on your Research into the Counterintuitive nature of the topic you carved out for yourself and which you are using your White Paper to develop.
I prefer David or Dave, but students uncomfortable with first names can call me Professor or Mister Hodges. (Sir Dave and Dave-a-lot are popular alternatives.) My ESL students' charming solution, Mister David, is my favorite by far.
Dev
Joe Gramigna
adamreim
alexmoran17
alivewit55
americangods01
anonymous123
Anonymous
azntaco
belldere
bigcounrty609
bigfoot9
bj112295
blueee04
breadpatrol99
brxttyb
calamariii
cfalover
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cherries267
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doglover846
dontquoteme187
douglasadams525
dt2018
faded26
friendoftacos
frogs02
fromcasablanca
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giants19
gingerbreadman27
girlno3
gobirds115
goodmusician440
gracchusbabeuf
hiralp365
ifurreadingthisits2l8
ilovedunkinoverstarbucks
ilovenas
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inspireangels
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eagles21
kilotoon
kingofcamp
krackintheneck
Philip Ebenezer
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littlecow24
ljkvng34
lokiofasgard24
luckyleprechaun1
marinebio18
Matt Loesche
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miliwawa
minutemen14
mossmacabre
music0392
mymomshouldhavenamedmegrace
ndb1996
neferpitou626
nugget114
oatmealvibes
ohearnj8
palal24
peachesxo
philsfan1133
pinkheart84
pinkmonkey32
pitandthependulum22
queenrandom04
RowanAnnouncer
Rowan27
rowanluver29
rowanstudent6
saltysurfer322
saycheese03
Senpai Pio
sixfortyfive645
sortableelms
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strawberryfields4
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tarheel1999
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Public Display Name
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Thomas Laperriere
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Water
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Counterintuitive Spring 2023 
– we started class by watching a video on a couple different allusions and how our brain perceives them
– definition argument needs a title beneath the slug
– go over in-text citations to be sure you are using them correctly within the essay
– we will need references at the bottom of the essay
– the definition rewrite will be due right away as well
– put your first draft into the category “definition essay FA21”
– put the rewrite into the new category called “definition rewrite”
– never change the original
– produce changes into the rewrite
– stay on track during essay; keep a consistent point of view for your readers
– define terms or concepts thoroughly in 1000 words
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In class today, we discussed a counter-intuitive concept of optical illusion. We talked about engineering a bike to turn left when you turn the handlebars right and vice versa. We then watched a video regarding the Ames illusions made up of trapezoidal shapes. Next, we reviewed the Definition Categorical Argument essay. We discussed how to title, add informal in-text citations, references, and how to post the Definition Rewrite. We will edit and rewrite our Definition essay in a separate post and not on the original. We then discussed how a ransom note is similar to a good argument. They both should have a bold clear premise (Thesis, Hypothesis), a step-by-step logical “proof” and specific details to emphasize and illustrate the reasoning. We also looked over another model definition argument regarding sharing an internet connection and defining ownership.
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We started class today by seeing a video of an optical illusion. The illusion occurs as a result of the viewer’s point of view. This is comparable to a defining argument in that you want the reader to have a specific point of view that you must control.
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Notes 10/19/2021
Definition
– force the audience to view your perspective (To believe in your argument)
– Needs a title (Title your argument)
– informal in-text citations
– references list
– rewrite happens right away (Post the definition argument. Then copy the text and post it to the definition rewrite.)
– you must show an improvement from your first draft to your “last draft.”
– It does not need to sound like an argument
– It could be a narrative (Not completely)
Ransom Note
– prove that I have what you need (Make it persuasive)
– the argument would fail if they do not believe that you have what they want (Or your precious item)
Visual Rhetoric
– Must describe the visuals to the audience as if they are not seeing the video
– “You are describing the images to the readers who are not seeing the visuals”
– You need to explain whether the rhetorical part of the visual argument was effective
– (Share a critique)
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Housekeeping:
-Definition Categorical Argument-username
-Title
-Informal in text citations
-References
-Definition rewrite
A good argument:
-Bold clear premise
-Thesis, hypothesis
-Step by step logical “proof”
-Specific details to emphasize and illustrate reasoning
-Anything can be an argument including a ransom note
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House Keeping
-create an initial draft for definition argument and put it in the “definition argument” cat.
-the required rewrite will go in “definition argument” cat.
-include informal in-text citations
Ransome Note:
-provide proof of leverage
-explain your wants and their needs
-express persuasion and possible “threat”
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English Comp II Lecture Notes (10.19.21)
Video
• Optical illusion video
Housekeeping
• Definition Categorical Argument
o Needs Creative Title
o Informal In-Text Citations
o References
o Definition Rewrite
happens right away (after feedback- continually changing)
copy all of material
post it again in a new category
• Definition Rewrite FA21
• Tasks
• Username
Writing Tip- How to Write a Good Ransom Note
• Good Argument
o Bold, clear hypothesis
o step-by-step logical proof
o specific details to emphasize and illustrate the reasoning
be persuasive
Won’t You Be My Wireless Neighbor?- Definition Argument
• Read essay
• Reply task
Task: Definition Essay #1 (Portfolio Task)
• Due 10.20.21 (11:59pm)
• Shorter Argument paper
• Will be “rough”
o perfectly acceptable
Visual Rhetoric
• You have to tell people what they are looking at (do not let them infer)
• It is our job to do so
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Illusions
Just as optical illusions exploit the viewers vantage point, you need to exploit your reader to support your claim from the lens they view it through.
Definition Rewrite
-submit under correct categories
-Show improvement between first and final draft (no such thing as final, but last)
-Original will never be touched again.
Ransom Note
-argument of having something someone wants in exchange for value
-Prove that you have it, establish what they want in return
-Note wasn’t specific enough, too wordy
Portrayal. to Reader
-remember your helping them visualize
-you’re information is limited to what you show them
-guide them down the right path that helps your claims
-lack of visuals in writing means that you need to deeply explain a situation
-it’s our job to tell them
-be specific and overly detail a claim
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Experimented with optic illusions based on osculation, warped angles, and shapes to create incredible works of art that awe an audience. Similarly to definition/categorical arguments, informal in-text citations are required, as are strong terms that must be defined, and a conclusion that satisfies the reader. A good ransom note formula should include an illustrated reason with proof, thesis, and hypothesis details. The definition argument must be invested in the terms to be defined as evidence for the thesis which will need to be refined. The visual rhetoric must convey details.
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Definition argument chose the perspective to tell the reader the argument. The definition categorical argument needs a title and informal in-text citations. Definition rewrite happens at the same time of the definition argument. To show improvement of the definition argument is the purpose of the rewrite. Writing is a social process that continues to go through changes. A ransom note is an argument. If the ransom note does not get what you want, then the argument fails. When a ransom is not too vague it does not get it’s point across. Definition arguments do not need to look like arguments, they can be narrative too. In writing, you must tell your reader what you are looking at. You don’t have to love the thing you’re looking at; you just must describe the visual aspects and whether the technique is effective or not. To share a critique of whether the argument works or not should be part of your visual rhetoric.
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To start class off we took a look at different allusions and how important it is to get the view in the right perspective. Next, we discussed making claims and using the right language by looking at two ransom notes. Then we continued our discussion on claims when we took a look at stealing internet access from your neighbors.
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-Illusions are made to confuse your brain, and they are different for every person. Choose the perspective you want your readers to see
-Your definition argument is an essay too, it should have a title
-You will have your original definition argument, and then a definition rewrite which will be continuously updated throughout the semester
-Using specific claims and illustrative language when writing your argument are very important, and a way to make sure that the reader stays engaged and knows exactly what you want to portray
-Visual rhetoric: describing the images you are seeing to someone who can’t see what you are describing
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Warm Up
-The optical illusion video proves that using definition arguments can make your audience think a certain way
-Even ideas that seem counterintuitive can be explained through well-written arguments
Housekeeping
-Post the definition argument, copy the material, and post it again in a “definition rewrite” post
-The original definition argument post will not be changed, however the rewrite post will be continuously re-written throughout the semester-this will show our growth
How to Write a Good Ransom Note
-A good ransom note has to prove that one person has something another person wants, they propose that the two exchange it, then convince the other person to make the exchange
-A bad, wordy, poetic ransom note is just like a bad introduction paragraph-it drags out the process
Wireless Internet
-The article read today functions as a definition argument about ownership over wireless property and it grapples with why we should share internet
-The reader can argue about whether the writer is stealing-and that is the point-at what point is the internet a personal belonging?
Definition Argument
-Be mindful of terms that the readers may not understand-you know more on the topic than they do and you may need to be clear about what you are trying to say
-This is just an early draft so it will probably be rough
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illusions video
definition categorical argument
requires a title, informal in text citations, and references.
make two, one under definitions categorial and one for definition rewrite. only change the rewrite.
all revisions go into the rewrite. copy paste everything then change.
How to write a good ransom note –
a bold clear premise, step by step logical proof, specific details to emphasize and illustrate the reasoning.
compared the two ransom note examples.
wrote about wireless neighbor arguement definitions.
going over thai life insurance visual analysis
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Notes 10/19
Today we talked about what should be in definition categorical argument. There should be a title, informal in-text citation, references. Visual rhetoric: is trying to describe the images you are seeing to someone who can’t see what you are describing. You should submit your work in two places: Definition Categorical Argument and Definition Rewrite. It should be 1000 words. Your revisions have to go in the definition rewrite and the definition rewrite only. Things that go into a good argument are bold Clear Premise (Thesis, Hypothesis), Step-by-Step Logical “Proof,” and specific Details to emphasize and illustrate the reasoning. We talked about ransom notes and how specific information is needed to make an argument and to make an author/victim feel convinced that one answer is the only answer. The Definition/Categorical Argument is one of THREE Short Arguments (1000 words each) whose contents you will combine at the end of the semester to produce your Research Position Paper (3000 words). It is your responsibility to indicate whether the technique is effective or not.
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Carpentered Environment – could be the title of a 1000 word definition argument
Definition categorical argument
First of 3 short arguments that make up longer paper
Make sure it contributes to hypothesis to argument, it is not a separate assignment
Central relevance to research project
Needs a title, intriguing and unexpected
Informal in text citations (link to examples)
Title
In text citations
References
Definition rewrite
Make all changes on rewrite
Step by step logical proof and specific details to emphasize and illustrate the reasoning
Evaluate the rhetoric
Readers need to understand storyline without the background knowledge
Describe the visuals well enough so the reader can see them
Come to conclusion first and wait for confirmation or refutation
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3/3
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In class we watch an illusion by Ames and learned about the Carpentered Environment. “The Ambassadors” is a painting that uses perspective to its advantage and tricks the mind.
Definition categorical argument is a 1000 word piece of writing that makes up one part of the tree papers due for the first draft. Needs a title, citations, and references. It does not have to be perfect because it leaves room for improvement based on feedback.
In order to write a good ransom note, it’s important to include the main details like who have have and what you want. Being specific and making claims is necessary for all writing.
“Will You Be My Wireless Neighbor?” is a definition article that made me think differently about wifi networks. Maybe there should be free internet and no passwords for everybody, but it’s something I’ve never considered because I’m so used to asking for the password when I go to a friend’s house.
In the video with the Thai man, it was shown that as an audience we always “judge” first and create our own hypotheses, then wait to be proven right or wrong. We do this from context clues, such as the man’s clothes, haircut, mannerisms, etc.
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We kicked off class with an intro of some optical illusions. Our brains cannot correctly perceive what is going on as our experience tells us it isn’t true.
Definition Categorical Argument:
First of three arguments that will relate to the research project. Does require a title, as well as the use of informal in-text citations, and the references. Post in the rewrite section as well. When you create edits however, only edit the rewrite section post.
We also went over a brief definition argument surrounding the conversation of free internet.
Writing Tips:
You have to establish credibility. In the example regarding a good ransom note, an argument needs detailed vocabulary alongside some conviction for the overall goal. State the hypothesis and give detailed steps one by one after that for the end goal.
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We discussed the due dates and how to go about taking feedback for an unfinished piece. Even if you think its done, it probably isn’t and David will show you what needs work.
We watched a few minutes of the wake up video, read the ransom notes and commented about why the second one was better and how they differed. Commented on if we agreed that the author of “Won’t You Be My Wireless Neighbor?” was stealing from their clueless supplier.
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Definition/Categorical Argument
-First of the three smaller arguments that will contribute to larger research paper
-Post in definition rewrite category as well
-Revise in the rewrite category ONLY to demonstrate the growth and development of your paper
-Making changes in the rewrite post with show your respect for the feedback and revision process
-Letting the two posts diverge will show the improvements made from your initial draft
Writing A Good Ransom Note (First Paragraph)
-Value of clear and specific details to build your credibility
-Illustrate the reasoning through use of details
-Use a step by step process
-Make your intentions clear
Visual Rhetoric
-The reader does not get to watch the video!
-It is your responsibility to explain what you see AND the conclusions that you make
-Decide whether the techniques used are effective or not
-Look for subtle clues that will help you make decisions immediately
-Draw instantaneous conclusions
-Nothing is accidental, everything is calculated
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Learned about the Carpentered Environment by watching a video of illusions only “some” people can see.
Acknowledged the Definition Categorial Argument
Find a good title
Citations
References
Remember the sources and details don’t have to be perfect.
Definition Rewrite
How to write a good ransom note (or how to write a good first paragraph)
Clear specific details
Credibility
Logical proof
Read the “Won’t you be my Wireless Neighbor” definition argument
Discussed the visual rhetorical argument
Have to indicate whether the technique is effective or not
Have to concentrate exclusively on the images
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It is very difficult for our brains to change how we inherently see something even if we know it’s wrong as seen often with optical illusions. Our definition arguments will probably not be strong as the first draft of our papers is meant to be improved and made more clear. Revisions for each of the papers will be in a different blog post titled the argument rewrite, which will be made at the same time as the first draft blog post, the rewrite will be edited later. A ransom note is a sort of proposal argument and is a way of looking at your argument to be sure it’s convincing the readers of your way. When writing the visual rhetoric, it’s important to remember that the reader cannot see the video you are analyzing. Our initial thoughts when we see something are ones we often hold, and we wait for what we see to prove us wrong.
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in class today we started by looking at an illusion showing that it is extremely hard to talk yourself out of things you firmly believe because our experience tells us it must be true.
Definition Categorical Argument
– must have a title, informal in text citations, references. when making revisions, use a new page and save the old one to see changes/growth.
What goes into a good ransom note?
-must be specific, effective proposal
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2/3
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I came a few minutes late so I missed whatever we did in the beginning
Go over and make sure my citations are being used in the correct way
References are needed
Definition rewrite
Definition essay fa21
– Tasks
– Username
Never change the original, that’s why we have a rewrite
Define term/concept in 1000 words
– Expected to be a rough draft
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We started off class today by watching a video on optical illusions.
Carpentered environment refers to environments consisting of built structures.
It actually blew my mind because I can never understand exactly what I am looking at. The video kind of showed how your arguments can change the way people perceive things. It also shows that through well written arguments, even ideas that seem counterintuitive can be explained.
Definition Categorical Argument is the first of the 3 short arguments that contribute to our final 3000 word paper
It needs a title
Informal in-text citations
References
How to write a good ransom note
Be very specific
Step-by-step
Give proof of life
State the consequences of not following their request
Ensure that you will give their loved one back as long as they make the payment
A Good Argument
Bold Clear Premise (thesis, hypothesis)
Step-by-step Logical “Proof”
Specific details to emphasize and illustrate the reasoning
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Wake Up
– discussed how we are influenced by “Carpentered Environments” (environments structured for our brains to be able to perceive them correctly)
– discussed how to utilize this method and create a “Carpentered Environment” for readers in our writing (to make readers perceive and understand concepts/statements the same way that we, the writers, do)
– carefully define terms in a way that you shorthand what you’re going to share (shortened phrase can carry a thousand word’s worth of meaning)
“Something from the Bar?”
– not specific enough to ‘tempt’ the customer
– do not use rhetorical statement or question to open an argument
– creates an environment that is the opposite of the environment you are trying to establish
– give the ‘customer’ a hint as to where they’re going/what they’re going to see (same can be applied to readers)
– nobody wants to change their mind, you have to make them
DON’T ask open ended questions, promise important information being shared later, apologize for what you don’t have, contradict reader’s preferences
DO offer specifics, exacts, and alternative options for readers
– ‘force’ readers away from thousands of options and towards a few
Categorical Argument
– first portfolio piece, 1000 words
– when publishing, copy and paste the contents into another posts and call it ‘Definition Rewrite’ (put it in Definition Rewrite Category)
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-Casual is informal and then Causal is regarded for cause and effect.
-The world does not change. Only our perception of the world changes.
-When we see a rectangle or a square, we always perceive one side being longer and one side being shorter. As a result, we know they are squares or rectangles, but we almost see them as trapezoids.
-Your questions must be very elaborate and specific.
-In order to change someone’s mind, don’t just throw a ton of facts. You can occasionally through little hints.
-Figure out the reader and try to change their mind.
-The definition/categorial argument assignment is due next Tuesday.
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The Quote is a true statement because when you tell somebody something new to them it becomes a new fact.
The illusion video is to be used as an example of how different views can change how we view a certain situation.
Don’t leave open-ended questions.
Thousand-word definition argument.
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– A mistake people make in titles of their argument titles are using the word “casual” instead of “causal”.
– “Give the people a new word, and they think they have a new fact.” is a true statement.
– The window in the illusion video is not a rectangle but a trapezoid, causing us to know which way it is turning. The window is also not a 3D object, it is a 2D object.
– We recognize rectangles as persistent shapes/stubborn facts and that we live in a world that’s full of them, but that we rarely actually see them as rectangles.
– The builders of pyramids have discovered that it has already fallen down since gravity has made pyramids achieve the shape they are to naturally achieve.
– You can force the perspective of your readers if you give your readers a point of view in a 360-degree room. It takes a bit of manipulation.
– The purpose of our definition categorical argument is to set up the room about your research and your point of view.
– Cancel culture: When a person in a society expresses a point of view that runs contrary to the point of view to the majority, that person can be cancelled. (Can be a “new word, new fact.”)
– “Something from the bar?” is a vague question that can drive people away from being persuaded to order something, we have yet to offer options, prices, menu items, etc. Like our essays, we want to convince the readers that our material is the best possible thing to offer to them, and we want to persuade/manipulate them to take our side (or in this case, a drink from the bar).
– To let the audience in on the conclusion we need them to draw, we need to give them a hint about where the essay is going. We can’t expect people to follow along with us with no introduction/clear guidance.
– Do not lead the readers on in your first paragraph, you need to lay out where you are headed in the first paragraph, so you keep your readers engaged and entertained.
– You are the kitchen, chef and server, but we are not the customers. Our readers are the customers.
– * Post definition argument post twice, under two different categories. “Definition-Username” and “Definition Rewrite – Username.” Both will go into portfolio; Rewrite post is for feedback.
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First we went over the difference between “casual” and “causal”, which can both get confused or typo’d easily. We then looked at a quote “Give the people a new word, and they think they have a new word”, which can make us question what a fact really is. A new word doesn’t change anything about the world, but it creates a new perception of the world, which could in turn change the way humans act and change. This is important because we need to know the right words to use to communicate your idea and perception so others understand. We looked at a video of a rectangle illusion where a rectangle shaded and cut to look 3D spins around, but it looks like it is going back and forth. Tne explanation is that although we are surrounded by rectangles (a Carpentered Environment) in buildings, we rarely always see them as rectangles because we perceive them as having a shorter or longer side based on where in the room we are looking at them. We also looked at other illusions where paintings or rooms are designed so that when you look at them from a certain angle, they portray a certain illusion to those looking at that angle. Similarly, we can manipulate the perspective from our certain angle, so they will see your belief.
We then looked at a question asked at bars “Something From the Bar?” which is not a good question as it doesn’t persuade or tempt the customer to buy anything. But if you were to explain that there are choices available and the range of prices, so that the customers are aware of the opportunities or “rules” of the bar, they would be more willing to spend money there. We have to do this in our writing too so that others don’t retreat to their own knowledge or comfort zone, and are more open to new information and ideas. You also shouldn’t ask open-ended questions or promise that you have information to share later on because readers wouldn’t be that patient and we need to hold their attention. Using the metaphor of a server at a restaurant or bar, the server will make the customer want to buy a drink or food, and present some specific items and options instead of just leaving it open-ended to the customer. Instead of leaving your reader with a bunch of information, you limit it to 2 items, so that you win either way because you got their attention both times.
We also have a Definition Categorical Argument of 1000 words due Tuesday, March 7. A definition is an argument, as it sets the rules and terms for what your argument is in the first 1000 words.
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-Think of terms that you can use to communicate material to help readers see it in ways they haven’t seen it before
-Illusions can be used for good or ill
-New perspectives can be used to persuade the reader to see only what you want them to see
-If you ask a question you put someone else in charge and do not tempt the reader
-Let the reader in to the conclusion at the end by giving a hint towards the conclusion that you wish for them to draw
-It is the job of the writer to guide and to “sell”
-If you establish trust, you can lead them to new conclusions and change their mind. –You want to lead them towards your conclusion
-The job of the essay writer is to give better evidence and introduce others to new ideas
-Guide reader to appropriate conclusion
-Lay evidence out
-No use in telling people that you have evidence, you have to show them what the evidence is
-Don’t ask open ended questions
-Don’t promise that you’ll have important info later
-Don’t apologize for what you don’t have
-Do not blame your lack of evidence
-Never contradict your readers preference
-Credibility is key
-Give evidence rather an saying you have evidence
-Filet is best when wrapped in bacon
-Suggest something new to the reader
-My reply on “Something from the Bar?” did not post despite three separate attempts to post about my previous writing experiences. In short those experiences focused on word count and regurgitation, so I believe that this new idea of focusing on engagement of the reader will improve my skills as a writer.
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Quote: “Give people a new word, and they think they have a new fact” – Willa Cather. In some ways giving people new words, it can help strike a new fact It can help people get new views on different statements.
Illusions only some can see: Ames recognized that we viewed shapes as stubborn facts, and we live in a world full of them. Carpentered environment- for economy’s sake we build things with right angles after two words readers know what we mean an area where mostly everything is man-made, and they are mostly rectangular or shaped with a right angle. Manipulate readers to see your perspective force perspective for evil or for good.
Using the right terms can help readers understand better.
A rhetorical question to open an argument is a very lame way to start even though many people do it. Open-ended questions like that leave people confused. Give a hint about what’s available/where we are going. To change someone’s mind you can’t throw facts at them you have to hint at what’s to come. Make people change their minds and persuade people you have evidence they don’t know about.
How you serve is how you write-Guide your reader to the right conclusion
Don’t ask open-ended questions, don’t promise to have information to share later, don’t blame the kitchen, don’t apologize for what you don’t have, and never contradict the customer’s preferences
You win when you force your reader to believe one thing or another.
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We spent the first part of class going over how reality is based on perception. We continue with a metaphor of the importance of using the information you’re talking about when you first speak about it. If you speak in hypotheticals without offering real arguments you lose your readers and the validity of your argument that you never got to make. The last thing we did in class was going over examples of what makes a definitional/causal argument worth writing.
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Quote Analysis: What unique *term/s* can we use to express our arguments so that the reader perceives them as “new facts.”
Carpentered Environment: The idea that the world around us is comprised of overwhelmingly right angles and rectangles. Moreover, we should shape our ideas in a way that causes the readers to perceive even the most well-known truths from a *different angle* or a *forced perspective*. Not dishonest manipulations, but insightful true thoughts.
Open-Ended Rhetorical Question: Avoid. Cause confusion from the reader; creates an uncomfortable environment. Give hints on where you’re going, what you’re talking about. “What we’re going to say on our tour today.”
-Don’t say there are “countless options” or “countless ideas”: overwhelms the reader, and they will resonate with NONE if they are offered EVERYTHING.
-The reader “Knows what they know.” They’re arrogant, & don’t want to change their mind.
Definition/Categorical Argument: Set up the rhythm of your paper, and introduce texts you’ve studied. SELL your argument like a GOOD SERVER at a restaurant. NOT a Summary, but a unique and concise argument that defines a term/idea essential to your paper. Grab them, and give them the information they need to perceive the rest of your argument.
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– A common mistake students make is mixing up the two words “casual” and “causal”. Remember casual is in regard to being informal, and causal is in regard to cause and effect.
– You can manipulate your readers into a forced perspective. This tactic has multiple uses, manipulating the information to hide the truth, using this tactic to shine light on the truth, and more.
– Never use a rhetorical question to start your writing, try to put them at ease, and guide them for your benefit. Let them know what’s available, give them a hint, make the reader feel confident about where they’re going.
– We are the servers, or writers, we have to make people change their minds because they won’t do it willingly. Persuade readers that you have info that they don’t know about.
– Approach the evidence with an expert mindset.
– While serving, don’t ask open ended questions, don’t promise better information in the future, don’t blame the kitchen, don’t apologize for what you don’t have in the kitchen, never contradict your customer’s preferences.
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Today’s starting quote was not entirely straightforward. The primary purpose of the quote, in my understanding, is to highlight that words and what they mean are not immutable facts. It is a terrain which is fought over and changes depending on time period and context
The section on illusions covered how even when we understand why an optical illusion works, we can’t always use that knowledge to see through the illusion. .
Using the example of a server in a restaurant, we covered several different essay-writing strategies. Specifically, we covered how the server directs customers towards preferred outcomes by narrowing their options. You want to establish credibility and deflect criticisms or potential sources of conflict into positive ideas.
Finally, the definition argument assignment was discussed. I argued that internet access is a difficult resource “steal” such as it is.
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-Casual/Causal are different, casual informal and causal effective
-Our view of the world is ever-changing, though the world itself remains the same. When we look at a square or rectangle, we may perceive one side as longer or shorter than the other, making it seem almost trapezoid-like.
-If you are seeking a specific answer, it is important to be as detailed and specific as possible in your question. Rather than trying to overwhelm with facts, it can be effective to use subtle hints to influence and change someone’s mind.
-To alter another person’s opinion, investigate the reader’s perspective and attempt to alter it.
-The definition/categorial argument assignment is due on Tuesday
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Casual = Informal descriptor
Causal = Shows relationship between two ideas
“Give the people a new word, and they think they have a new fact.”
-Helps readers get a new understanding of the world when reading your essay, one they can share with others
Carpentered Environment: human tendency to build things out of right angles for economic and structural integrity, creating an angular environment
-Oscillating rectangle illusion is a result of our carpentered environment, does not affect rural people who don’t live surrounded by rectangular buildings
-You can force a perspective on your essay by providing one point of view
Something From the Bar: How to Introduce Your Arguments
-Opening an argument with a question puts someone else in charge
-Customers spend more money when they feel at ease and comfortable with their purchases
-Guide your readers to the evidence, establish trust, rather than immediately overwhelming them with information
-Name your points ahead of time to garner interest from your readers
-Gain credibility
When Posting Your Essay, Post Twice Titled As Both:
Definition – Username (Definition & Username Category)
Definition Rewrite – Username (Definition Rewrite & Username Category)
-A definition can be an argument
-Pull 2 sources from the White Paper
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Quote: “Give the people a new word, and they think they have a new fact.”- Willa Cather
If you show people a certain view that is new to them in your writing, they will have a new outlook or in the quote’s case, “New fact.”
Rectangle illusion: Amers found that we view shapes as stubborn facts and their all around us. You can manipulate your perspective on readers, force perspective for evil or for good.
Right terms will help readers better understand your writing.
A rhetorical question is a great opener to a paper, however many people use this. A question that leaves people confused gives a hint of the direction we’re going in. To help people understand you must not simply throw facts at them, but make them question them so they think about what you’re presenting.
Appetizers- How you serve your writing will help guide your readers to a conclusion.
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Wake Up
– There are terms that are a part of our language in a way that everyone understands what you mean when you say it. However, somebody had to come up with it.
– Sometimes new words can make people think that it is a new fact.
– We live in a Carpentered Environment which means most of what we see if rectangles.
– How you name something will have an impact on how your readers think about it. For example, when it was called an estate tax nobody thought there was anything wrong with it however when it is called a death tax it sounds awful.
Something from the Bar?
– If your readers are given too much data or too many choices without clear guidance then they will retreat to a place where you cannot persuade them
Writers are the subject matter experts,
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*Posted early by accident*
– You cannot ask an open-ended question and just expect people to say yes you have to give them evidence.
– Things not to do:
– Do not ask open ended questions
– Do not promise that you will have important information to share later
– Do not say you do not have evidence for something
– Do not apologize for what you do not have
– Never contradict your readers preferences
Definition/Categorical Argument
– When you post it name it definition-username and then copy and paste it and post it again as Definition Rewrite-username
– Make sure you give it an actual title.
– you will need to use at least two sources in this section
– Look at the reference model to learn how to cite your sources
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Class Notes 3/2:
– “Give the people a new word, and they think they have a new fact” -Willa Cather
– Facts aren’t made, they are discovered. Everything we know as a fact has existed, it just needed to be discovered.
– There are several words that have become common statements/phrases that were once never even used until we brought them about and gave them meaning.
– Illusion Video: Rectangle appeared to be moving back and forth but when there was something placed through, the object appeared to go round and round
– The reason we view this the way we do is because we live in a carpentered environment meaning we are used to seeing rectangles commonly
– But we as people have no idea what to call what we see until we come up with a name for what we’re seeing and then it becomes a fact once it has a name and reasoning.
– In writing, we have the ability to change the point of view of our readers and make them see something new just like new perspectives work in our world when we see something from a new perspective and perceive it totally different.
– Something from the Bar? A question commonly asked when being served at a restaurant. But often some people don’t even know what the bar has to offer unless they have been to the bar before.
– Your job as a writer is to serve. Writers are subject matter experts and servers are as well. In writing and serving, both sides are satisfied when the right conclusion is met
– DON’Ts: Ask open ended questions, promise you’ll have future info, don’t blame the kitchen, don’t apologize for what you don’t have, never contradict your customers preference
– DO’s: pose your question by creating a bargain; instead of listing countless options, give three options and create interest within them; If one option isn’t available, present that it’s unavailable in a way that sparks interest than something else
-THE KITCHEN: Isn’t the entire world of knowledge but it’s what you have
-THE CHEF: Is you. You can only cook(write) with what you are given.
-THE SERVER: Is also you. You have to be able to sell what you’ve got after you’ve made it.
-THE CUSTOMER: The reader. Readers are the people who are taking in what we write and leaving with an impression. Just like in a restaurant how a customer is the one who has an impression based on the server and the product.
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Thurs. March 2
Quote: “Give the people a new word, and they think they have a new fact.”
-“Facts are stubborn thinks but statistics are pliable”
Illusion only some people can see: Can make people see illusions through layout of room/ setting
Something from the bar?: Worst phrase a server can have
-Creates stress and panic for the customer because they know nothing about the bar
“Writing an essay is like selling food at a restaurant”
– Stay in charge of the subject matter
1. Don’t ask open ended questions
2. Don’t promise that you’ll have important info to share
3. Don’t blame the kitchen
4. Don’t apologize for what you don’t have
5. Never contradict your customer’s preferences
When publishing Definition/categorical argument, publish it as “Definition-username” and post to definition category and your username category
After posting, copy the same thing you just published and start a new post and publish it as a definition rewrite and post it to definition rewrite category
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– We create new words and sayings everyday, even though the word stays the same the world perceives it differently
– When looking at an optical illusion you know how it is an illusion but you can’t always see the illusion
– You can’t ask an open ended question and expect you to answer, without giving you details about the question
– When publishing your definition categorical argument, title it as,
– Definition- Username
– After you post, copy and paste your post into another post and title it
– Definition Rewrite- Username
– Due on Tuesday
– At least two references for the argument
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-Started by going over terms and how these small terms have way bigger meanings and larger definitions.
-Perspective is a very big game changer when it comes to viewing objects or paintings, but perspective is also as great in writing when getting your arguments heard.
-We talked about how servers try and get a people to buy drinks because after one they are becoming softer and softer and likely to have another. In writing you want to feed your reader as many drinks (evidence) as possible before you drop the big evidence that will change their mind on what you are arguing.
-How to write: How to serve; they come down to the same rules.
-A persuasive argument is trying your reader (the customer in a restaurant) not to stick with water) and convince them or persuade them to try something else.
-To finish class off we talked about the definition 1000 words due on march 7th, just to kind of refresh a definition argument and some other examples we went over throughout the past couple classes.
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WILLA CATHER QUOTE:
-Did we discover 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10 or did we just name it?
-When yo give people a new word it doesn’t change a thing in the world but may change our
perception of the world
Plan B is the back up plan of plan A
We think of it as something else; a fall back situation
Change estate tax name to death tax and now people are not ok with it
ILLUSION VIDEO:
*should remind you of the ballerina
The rectangle never changes directions
Adding an object to it did not help us see it was going in one direction
Our brains are so easily tricked because:
– We live in a world of rectangles cause the world is carpentered; we live in a carpentered environment
You have the ability to challenge the perspective of the reader
SOMETHING FROM THE BAR?(lamest question)
– How would you know what you want on your first visit without a menu
– You don’t know anything about how they make their drinks yet
– As a server you want to get them to buy the first drink and asking “something from the bar” isn’t the way to a yes
– they might stick with water if you do this
*readers do the same thing when
– Faced with too much new data, too many choices—in absence of clear guidance
– they will retreat to where you can’t persuade them.
HOW TO SERVE
Your job is to:
“by serving to guide, and by guiding to sell, and by selling to improve your employer’s bottom line, and—by helping out everybody”
*servers = writers
HOW TO WRITE
– stay in charge of subject matter
WHAT NOT TO DO
-No open-ended questions
-Don’t promise you have important information to share later.
-Don’t apologize for what you don’t have. Never contradict your customer’s preferences.
TO DO:
– don’t stick with what is safe
– there is no “i can’t find what i was looking for”
DEFINITION ARGUMENT
When publishing your 1000 word Definition Argument
Publish your text and References into a new post.
Definition—Username (post to the Definition category and your Username category).
*At least two sources
Copy and paste your text and References into a new post at the same time:
Definition Rewrite—Username (post to the Definition Rewrite category and your Username category)
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“Give the people a new world, and they think they have a new fact.” – Mark Twain said, “Facts are stubborn things.” We make up facts when we need them. They do not just exist. We name things to create things {creating number 1, 2, 3, for example. Were they always there, or did we create them?}. When we give names to things that are unnamed, it changes nothing about what they are. However, it does change our perceptions on them. When we give things like numbers names, we can create relationships between them. So, in a way, it creates a new fact for us.
We can also give new meanings to words/create new terms to fit present-day society. Words like “side hustle,” “#metoo,” and “black lives matter” are prevalent today. People think that we can give new meanings to already-existing terms and create new facts.
The Illusion Only Some People Can See: DEFINITION ARGUMENT: We live in a world of rectangles because we live in a carptentered environment. Most of what we see when we’re inside are rectangles. We interpret the angles of these rectangles as right angles. We are basically surrounded by rectangles throughout our lives. When we look at things like the image in the video, we presume that the insides cannot change because they are rectangles. We do not really see the sides as rectangles. When you live in rural environments, you see the image spinning. When you live in urban environments, you see the image oscillating. You need to look at it with more perspective to get the full truth of the image.
“We have the ability to challenge the point of view that our readers are entitled to.” You need to be command of all the material. We need to give our readers all the angles so they can choose their POV/angle. We can name our terms and even occupy our arguments if we want to.
Something from the Bar: You cannot say “something from the bar” to someone who has no clue what you mean by that. They cannot just say yes to something that they have no idea what they are saying yes to. You need to be specific, provide evidence, and give them options {a menu}. You need to talk to your readers like you are serving them at a bar. You want to put them in a comfortable environment, so you do not want to attack them or their standpoints. OUR JOB AS WRITERS IS TO SERVE AND SELL SO THAT MAYBE, THEY WILL AGREE WITH YOUR VIEWS. You need to establish trust with them.
How to serve/how to write: stay in charge of the subject matter, approach it like the expert you are.
How NOT to serve/how to write: do not ask open-ended questions, don’t promise that you’ll have important information to share later, don’t blame the kitchen, don’t apologize for what you don’t have, never contradict your customer’s preferences. Instead of open ended questions, offer options/other angles so they can find something better than their own view.
Writers have to be charmers. We must shmooze our readers.
The Definition/Categorical argument must be called Definition — Username. Must have 1,000 words and a references section. Then copy and past your text and references into a new post at the same time. Call it Definition Rewrite — Username. The contents will be identical accept they will be put in different categories. The professor will provide feedback on the rewrite post and we will rewrite on the rewrite post.
This paper needs two sources. It has the same topic as the overall paper. Must explain terms within your topic.
A Definition/Categorical argument is basically a paper that provides context for terms that will be discussed in your final paper. However, it must not look like a definition argument. The definitions should be embedded in the writing.
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– “Give the people a new word, and they think they have a new fact.”
– The meaning of words aren’t definite and factual, the meaning of words can change dependent on the context and time period
– The world doesn’t change the perception of our world changes
– We live in a world of rectangles because our world is full of carpenters (carpentered environment
– Writing lets you challenge the opinions your readers are entitled to
– “Something from the bar?”
– Writers should serve to guide and guide to sell
– Convince someone to see the restaurant/world from your point of view
– Stay in charge of the subject matter and guide your reader to the conclusion
– Charm your readers into questioning where they got their misinformation
– Post “Definition-Username” and for the rewrite post “Definition Rewrite-Username” (post versions at the same time in different categories”
– Same contents for both posts, but the Rewrite will have feedback from professor
– Definition argument is 1,000 words and references (title it)
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Today in class we started by watching a video.
In this video we saw a couple different allusions.
The main allusion was with a rectangle with squares cut out that was spinning on a track.
The rectangle seemed to be moving in several different definitions even though it was actually moving in the same direction every time.
For the definition categorical argument assignment we went over how to turn it in correctly and how to label them.
We also went over what was required for the assignment (references, word count, citations).
We also went over the metaphor that compares writers to servers in a restaurant. How we have to sell our argument and get our readers to read it.
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“Give the people a new word, and they think they have a new fact.”- Willa Cather
“Facts are stubborn things.”-John Adams
“Facts are stubborn things, but statistics are pliable.”-Mark Twain
Facts are stubborn things, but we make them up when we need them.
Illusion/Riddle →Carpentered Environment: “We are living in a world of rectangles”
We see things based on our points of view. “We are living in a world of rectangles” is what we see. We need to ensure we are making our readers see what we see when we construct arguments that we want them to see through a perspective different than theirs.
****We have the ability to challenge the point of view that our readers are entitled to when writing.****
Your job as a writer is to serve. “By serving to guide, and by guiding to sell, and by selling to help improve your employer’s bottom line, and—by absolutely everybody— to take home bigger tips from happier customers….”
The best servers (writers) use their power to their advantages
-They are the subject matter experts
-They have already examined the pertinent evidence
-They have come to the right conclusions
-If they establish your trust, they can guide you to the right conclusions
-Everybody is happy when you come to the right conclusions
*****Stay in charge of the subject matter; approach this like the expert you are on said subject.*****
~~Nothing is accomplished if we don’t show the reader what we are wanting to show. Nothing will be accomplished if we simply ASK.~~
What NOT to do:
-Do not ask open-ended questions
-Do not promise that you’ll have important information to share later on
-Do not blame the kitchen (never say you can’t find evidence)
-Do not apologize for what you do not have
-Never contradict your customer’s (reader’s) preferences
**** The Kitchen is NOT the entire world of knowledge. It’s simply what you’ve gathered from your research that’s ready to be prepared and written in your paper
<emThe Chef is you (the writer). You are also The Server. You cook and serve it to your customers (your readers). Customers are arrogant (like they wear the phrase “The customer is always right”), they aren’t searching for enlightenment, we need to give it to them.
When you publish your Definition Argument, you will publish it as a new post in the blog like so:
Definition—Username (post it under the Definition Category and your Username Category)
Copy and paste your text and references into a new post at the same time:
Definition Rewrite—Username (post to the Definition Rewrite Category and your Username Category)
****The first draft/post will never change. It is an archive. Professor will provide feedback on our Definition Rewrite and this is where you’ll respond to feedback. Both version of this Definition Argument will be a part of our Final Portfolios****
****For the first formal argument, you will need two sources (at least)****
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Wake Up: Facts are something that people make up and was always there. When you give people a new world it doesn’t change a thing in the world but it changes are perceptions of the world. Ideas that seem counterintuitive can be explained through good arguments. Evidence is your job as an author. No surprise if you ask a rhetorical question in the opening paragraph. Your job as a writer is to serve and sell. You as a writer is a subject matter expert and knows exactly whats going on.
Something From the Bar: When you open an argument with a question, it puts someone else in charge. Guide your readers to the evidence.
Due next Thursday: 1000-word Definition/Categorical Argument on your Research into the topic you chose. All related. Produce a reference section.
Definition argument: do you belong in the category of this?
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