1. Explain what “to give an argument” means in this book.
Giving an argument according to Anthony Weston, can be explained as giving solid evidence to backup your claim.

2. What are the reasons Weston gives in support of his claim, “arguments are essential”? Weston states that without an argument, your reasoning for your conclusions would in fact be no more than simple disagreements with no support to prove your point. Also he encourages arguments to analyze points on both sides to determine which conclusion holds the most weight.

3. Explain why many students tend to “write an essay, but not an argument”. It is not always understood what is expected in following the rules of a good argument, therefore , without the proper knowledge it is unlikely you will make a good argument but instead merely write essays.

4. Construct two short arguments (one "for" and one "against") as modeled in the Week 3 Assignment section in Blackboard. Put each one in "elements form".

5. Review the seven rules in chapter one. Briefly discuss how your argument demonstrates that each rule was applied, in the construction of your arguments above.

6. Review the three rules in the appendix named, “Definitions”. In your own words, discuss how you took these rules into consideration as you constructed your arguments.

7. Good posts demonstrate:
Sincere reflection, effort, and analysis
Answers that are substantial (at least one large paragraph each)
Consistent mention, citation, and integration of the assigned readings (explained in YOUR own words, though)
Correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation
Correctly titled posts!

How many points do you honestly feel your post this week deserves? Justify your answer.

I definitely do not deserve the full 25 points for this assignment. My answers are short, not answered well, and some are not answered at all. I struggle with the issue of argument often as i am not one who speaks my mind. This is one of my biggest down falls that I would like to over come & I am hopeful that this class will help me with this issue.