Discussion Board:

Framing the Issue

It is important to know that there are at least two sides to every issue. Each side (opinion) should be based on facts that are supported with convincing, reasonable evidence that is credible and current. Before you form an opinion, consider the pros and cons of the issue. Doing this can strengthen your position on the issue—or it can result in a change of opinion on the issue.

For this week’s discussion, complete the following:

1. Choose 1 of the issues in the list below, or you can select any topic you like. If you choose your own topic, make sure the topic is appropriate for an argumentative essay and related to an issue that will hold your interest when you return to the essay in the coming weeks. A good source for this would be current events. Please e-mail your instructor for approval first, and remember academic research methods still apply.
2. Read 1 article on your topic from the list provided in the Topic Bibliography.
3. Express your opinion about the issue in 1 sentence.
4. Use the article you selected to write a paragraph to support your opinion, and be sure to cite it in your response.

Issues to Choose From

• Is TV a leftover media source from the past that will soon be outdated, or is TV keeping up with the times and attracting new viewers?
• How is social media affecting young adults, parents, or teens for better or worse?
• Should high school students be required to take a civics course as a graduation requirement?
• Should journalists try to be objective to regain the public’s confidence?
• Do charter schools hurt traditional public schools?
• Are drug courts the solution to addressing nonviolent drug offenders?
• Should forensic techniques require federal approval for use in court?
• Should the U.S. government provide universal health care?
• Do video games portray positive or negative gender stereotypes?

NOTE: For assistance with this assignment, please refer to the assigned readings listed under Unit 1 Learning Activities, as well as your intellipath® lessons.

Discussion Board Reminders:

• Must have three posts: A Main Post and two replies to peers.
  • First post: Either your main post or a reply to others must be posted before midnight CT (Central time) on Friday of each week.
  • Second and third post: Must be posted on a different day from the first post.
• Connect to Content: At least one post must refer to course learning materials. See the Academic Resource on Discussion Boards for help with connecting to the content.
• Engaging in Class Discussions: For more information on making the most of your class dialog, review the Academic Resource on Discussion Boards.