ENG 301 - Understanding Arguments

(3 units) CO12

Survey of argumentation practices and their ethical implications in society. Includes study of rhetorical concepts, mechanisms of persuasion, argumentation practices in Western and non-Western traditions, the impact of language in shaping community ethics and values, as well as use of rhetoric in various modalities and new media.

Maximum units a student may earn: 3

Prerequisite(s): ENG 102 or ENG 114 or ENG 104

Grading Basis: Graded
Units of Lecture: 3
Offered: Every Fall and Spring

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. describe and analyze a challenging ethical issue debated in historical or contemporary society.
2. critically examine how rhetorical contexts impact competing ethical claims and positions.
3. determine the purposes, audiences, central points, and strategies of development and support for a given argument.
4. accurately apply the basic vocabulary of classical argumentation, including terms relating to appeals, sources of evidence, and strategies of organization.
5. recognize alternatives to classical argumentation, whether they be rooted in non-Western cultures or new media.

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