Project Package: Argument Essay

This essay project helps you in two ways. First, it helps you develop a mindset andapproach to technology in teaching and learning. Second, if you need to take the PraxisCore Academic Skills for Educators Exam, this will help prepare you to succeed on theArgument writing part of the test. Here is your writing prompt:

“…[T]he digital technology now coming,more or less rapidly, into our class-rooms—if used properly—can helpmake our students’ learning real, engag-ing, and useful for their future.” (Marc Prensky, “TeachingDigital Natives”)

Your job is to construct an argument in support of Marc Prensky’sstatement about technology’s place in education (Prensky, 2010). Re-member that—as Grant Wiggins (2015) points out—arguments arewritten to demonstrate your understanding of a topic so that your readerwill consider your ideas when forming their own position rather thanpersuading your reader that you are right.

Your argument should be single-spaced, about 3⁄4 of a page to 2 pageslong. Remember to use the argument structure: (1) introduction that highlights the impor-tance of the topic, (2) your claim and the reasons for your claim, (3) evidence that supportsyour reasons and your claim, (4) your conclusion that summarizes your argument. Youare highly encouraged to draw on your own experiences, things that you have read out-side of class, and the readings you have completed for this class. This next part is differentthan the requirements of the Core Exam, but if you do quote or refer to a reading, makesure to use APA format for in-text citations (see theCourse Tools and Practices document formore information). You should also include a list of references at the end of your essay.

Here are some resources to help you successfully complete this essay:

• The readings for class so far• PraxisCoreWritingExamStudyCompanion (https://www.ets.org/s/praxis/pdf/5722.pdf)

• Video about hyperbole (http://goo.gl/MUtnU4)• The Course Tools and Practices Document

You should plan on visiting theWriting Centerwith a draft of your essay and 2-3 questionsby February 13. The final draft of your essay is due in TaskStream by February 20.

Schedule a meeting with your professor to discuss your feedback byMarch 15.

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