Activties and Ideas

1) Jon Stewart and Rogerian Techniques (1102). Go to this episode of The Daily Show, in which Stewart debates with South Carolina Sen. Jim DeMint (R) about American politics. Begin the video at 12:47. Watch the interview in class with your students and have them identify the points during which Stewart tries to bring their opposing viewpoints together (i.e., through emotion, clarification of definitions, humor, etc.). Discuss the possible ways these methods could be incorporated into your own students' papers.

2) Find an article, video, or other source that attempts to employ Rogerian strategies and explain how it uses these strategies. Bring this source and your explanation to your small group conference.

3) Discussion Board Post, optional (250 words): Rogerian Argument, “The Dance”: Part of understanding Rogerian argumentation is realizing that Rogers was essentially trying to shift our metaphor for arguing: from “war” to “negotiation” or “conversation.” Blog about 5 metaphors that you find yourself believing in or abiding by or being a part of. Briefly describe each one and how it impacts your actions. Really think about this one. Even if you want to list 5 but only describe 1 of them – that’s fine. Whatever you have to say the most about. (Consider skimming over this useful website). Respond to 2 of your peers' posts (50 words each)

6) Write a 250-word narrative about why the topic you've chosen is important to you and relevant. Find 2 opposing sources (essays, not websites) for this topic and summarize both sources. Bring topic overview and source summaries to small group conference.  

7) Complete research (4 sources) and write a summary paragraph for each source. Include a bibliographic entry before each source. Bring these summaries to class. 

8) DB Post, optional (250 words): Vegetarianism. Vegetarianism is a topic that has very polarized sides in the debate. State the two best arguments, being as fair as possible, for both sides of the debate. Respond to 2 of your peers' posts (50 words each). 

9) DB Post, optional (250 words:) Answer the following question posed by the author of the above NY Times essay: But does [volunteerism] really matter why it’s done? Isn’t it enough to volunteer, no matter the motive? Explain your reasoning. Respond to 2 of your peers' posts (50 words each).