The Purposeful Argument: A Practical Guide

"We live in such a complex world, and often students feel they can do nothing to change it. However, with the focus on local change, students are more likely to feel empowered if they are taught to respond to concerns which affect them personally." "The clear desire of the writers/publishers is to construct a book grounded in the practical of the everyday. The biggest complaint from most students, especially at the two-year college, is a lack of connection to their real lives and how argument applies." "This book is very appealing to me. It gives me an impression that its author has freshmen writers in his/her heart and has tried every means to create a textbook that best fits the needs of both writing instructors and their students, particularly those at community colleges." "I like that the emphasis is on citizenship in a very active, specific way. The preface implies that the text will help students actively and effectively engage in the many communities that they are party of, not only participating but influencing and helping to make decisions." "I had a very favorable reaction to the examples of argument in the book, which seemed fresh and new. In the text I currently use, the readings seem to be slightly standard and even overused."