Question Description
Now that we’ve spent some time with the Declaration of Independence, it’s time for you to make a quick (intro + 2-3 body paragraphs) argument about whether or not they got it right. Specifically, were they right to omit the sections they omitted, or were these mistakes? Be clear about answering this question.Support your answer by leaning first on the text, the Declaration of Independence, making note of what they included and/or what they omitted. The strongest arguments will include specific quotes from the Declaration itself followed by your commentary on the deeper implications of the wording OR of the decision to omit that language.Evidence for this argument should also include specific references to historical events or current events that can be directly tied back to decisions the framers made to the final document in 1776. Like before, this should not involve research. Instead, reference what you can from history and/or current events that can be tied back to decisions made on what to keep and/or what to omit from the Declaration of Independence.This is an opportunity to do more with rhetorical modes. Which could help you develop this argument? Which evidence from today could help you support that argument?
Rubric:
Claims, Evidence, and Commentary. Effective
12 pts
The writer synthesizes specific evidence from multiple sources–including historical texts or events, current events, pop culture, and personal experience–stating somewhat complex (synthesized) claims. The writer supports all claims with a clear line of reasoning. AND Commentary convincingly explains how the evidence supports the line of reasoning.
Paragraph Use: Effective
8 pts
The writer organizes the argument intentionally, moving from introduction in which the writer articulates a clear thesis, through body paragraphs organized with rhetorical modes (e.g., Definition, Compare-Contrast, Cause-Effect) and sequenced logically.