So last Friday in class I was teaching the components of an argumentative essay. The day before, I went over my lesson plans to decide the best way to explain how the thesis/argument, primary/preemptive research, secondary research, concessions and counter arguments worked together to create the essay.
My dad is a youth minister and has been for over 10 years. In his presentations, he always tries to use a prop to help deliver the message. Taking a page from his book, I wanted to incorporate some kind of hands on experience, especially since most of my class seem to be more visual learners. With that decision made, I had to find the best method to use. Since I love baking, it only felt natural to turn to some kind of snack. After some brainstorming, I excitedly settled on Dirt Pudding. I built the lesson plan around dirt pudding, including a slide show that broke everything down into recipe steps.
•Pudding Mix= Argument--necessary, but weak on its own
•Milk= Primary Research--makes the argument stronger and more meaningful, but could be stronger
•Cool Whip= Secondary Research--Strengthens argument by incorporating other
viewpoints, information, and statistics
•Cookie Crumbs= Concessions-- Acknowledges a point made by one’s opponent. It allows for
different opinions and approaches toward an issue, indicating an understanding
of what causes the actual debate or controversy. Promotes author’s credibility and proves author
understands the context and arguments surrounding her/his claim. Means your base is so strong that adding concessions
to the mix could only make it better.
•Gummy Worms= Opposing Arguments-- An argument opposed to your thesis, or part of your
thesis. It expresses the view of a person who disagrees with your position. Some authors fear or avoid these “worms” because they
can eat holes in an argument, but the best arguers use the worm as an accent
and flavor for your essay. Adds credibility and proves relevance of an issue (if
others are talking about it, whether they agree with you or not, the issue must
be important)
I brought dirt pudding for them to enjoy while we discussed the lesson. They seemed to really grasp the importance of every part of an argumentative essay.
Dude, that's amazing! If my teacher brought me food, I would love them forever. This a fantastic idea! It's engaging and tasty. And how many students don't eat before class and spend the whole time thinking about how hungry they are instead of listening to you talk? I'm stealing this. :)
ReplyDeleteAnd what else is cool? You set yourself up as an instructor who spends a lot of time in preparation, which sends the message that you take teaching seriously. Nice.
ReplyDeleteNow I want chocolate pudding. Thanks a lot, O. ;) Regardless, this is an intensely clever metaphor because it's visual and fun but makes a very good point at the same time.
ReplyDeleteOne of the things that I love the most about teaching is that it gives the opportunity to use metaphor and parables to get the point across. I smell a blog post. ;)