Finding Arguments at the Inauguration

As we read Chapter 1 in Everything's an Argument, the authors encouraged us to think about argument in a variety of different ways. Likewise, in class today we discussed/listed the different types of arguments appearing in the text and even detailed how some of them could function as arguments in mainstream society. Now we should practice identifying and making meaning of these arguments, focusing on a contemporary societal text: the 2009 Presidential Inauguration.

For this week's blog posting, I'd like you to watch at least 20 minutes of the Presidential Inauguration coverage, paying close attention to the different types of argument. As you watch, remember to keep track/reference the arguments to inform, persuade, convince, etc.. Additionally, you'll want to pay attention to the use of ethical, emotional, and logical appeals. In your post, please cover at least 5 different types of argument, discuss how they were used and whether or not you feel these arguments were effective. Please use this blog posting to work through ideas about different types of argument-- this blog post should be a type of writing experiment to try out new ideas concerning argument. No wrong answers here.

Please remember that your blog posting is due Thursday, 1/22 at 8M. Additionally, your 3 comments on your peers' blogs (see handout and syllabus for details) are due Friday, 1/23 at 5PM. Happy blogging!