My prompt is: Explain, in an essay with a thesis, why student papers must be relevant and how that relevance is achieved in their writing. (The requirements of this essay include why and how. Address both in the thesis)
I'm pretty sure I need to address rhetorical stance in the 'how' part, but I'm not sure how to approach the 'why' part. Any suggestions?
To effectively tackle your essay prompt, it is crucial to establish a clear and concise thesis statement that addresses both the why and how aspects of the relevance of student papers. Here's a possible approach:
Thesis: Student papers must be relevant in order to provide meaningful contributions to their respective fields and foster critical thinking skills, which can be achieved by adopting a strategic rhetorical stance.
In this thesis statement, the "why" component emphasizes the importance of relevance for student papers. Meanwhile, the "how" component highlights the role of a strategic rhetorical stance in achieving this relevance. Now, let's explore suggestions to develop both aspects of your essay.
1. Why student papers must be relevant:
To address the "why," consider the following points:
a. Impactful contributions to the field: Emphasize how relevant student papers allow for the incorporation of new ideas, perspectives, and research, thus advancing knowledge within their respective fields. Discuss the significance of staying on top of current trends and debates, and the potential for innovative thinking and problem-solving arising from relevant research.
b. Real-world applicability: Explain the importance of making connections between academic concepts and real-world contexts in student papers. By grounding their arguments and findings in practical applications, students show the potential usefulness of their work beyond theoretical discussions. This promotes engagement with real-world issues and fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
2. How relevance is achieved through a strategic rhetorical stance:
To address the "how," consider the concept of rhetorical stance and how it can contribute to the relevance of student papers:
a. Audience awareness: Encourage students to consider their intended audience and their needs, values, and interests when composing their papers. By tailoring their arguments and evidence to resonate with their audience, students can demonstrate the relevance and practicality of their work.
b. Appropriate evidence and persuasive techniques: Discuss how students can enhance the relevance of their papers by utilizing appropriate evidence, such as current and reputable sources, empirical data, or case studies, to support their arguments. Furthermore, encourage students to employ persuasive techniques, such as rhetorical appeals (ethos, logos, pathos) and logical reasoning, to demonstrate the significance of their research or ideas to the broader field or society.
c. Connection to broader conversations: Highlight the importance of students positioning their papers within existing scholarly conversations or ongoing debates in the field. By demonstrating awareness of relevant literature and engaging with existing arguments, students showcase the importance of their work and contribute to the broader discourse.
By addressing both the "why" and "how" components of your essay prompt in your thesis statement and incorporating these suggestions, you will be able to develop a thoughtful and comprehensive essay on the relevance of student papers.