Everythings an Argument With Readings: With Readings

Rating:
Summary: A blend of Schemes, Tropes and Toulmin
Review: As a Freshman Composition Teacher, I found it hard to explain the idea of argument using mainstream texts such as Axlerod and Cooper's St. Martin's Guide. The second edition of Everything's an Argument provides an accessible way to illustrate classical rhetorical ideas to the modern student. Lunsford, Ruszkiewicz and Walters provide a readable breakdown or Aristotle's concepts of Ethos, Pathos, Logos and Audience. Toulmin is also used nicely. The second edition also provides readings which are contemporary in nature and on intersting topics. There are the traditional readings on Title IX, Language and Identity, Free Speech and Euthanasia for the more conservative course instructors. In addition, this book ellaborates on topics which I will be excited to introduce into my course next semester: Technology's involvement in Conception and Birth, Intellectual Property rights, Genetics and Privacy Loss. While the content of the book is exactly what I've been searching for, I find the physical book design also appealing. The cover design and visual elements will demand attention from my students. While the compact paperback design will not break anyone's back, it has me a little concerned about how well it will hold up over a semester. This text should be a definite consideration for anyone who has been wondering for years how to work audience, argument, critical thinking and style into their course. My favorite part is the chapter on tropes and schemes.

Rating:
Summary: Great for Critical Thinking Course
Review: I teach Critical Thinking at a junior college in central California. This is the only text for my class. I have chosen it over several others for the following reasons: ease of use, detailed explanations, MLA and APA format guidelines, and excellent readings that give both sides to current topics.