Unit 5: Argument Portfolio Reminders

Question

In this unit, you will be submitting two different portfolios. The first portfolio will be an outline that you will be creating for the second portfolio, which will be your final Argument Essay, so you must pace yourself and begin working on it right away.

REMINDER: The first portfolio, the Outline, is due this Thursday, February 6th in the portfolio Dropbox

Suggested Timeline For your Portfolios- I will highlight where we are at in red

2/3……………………………......…… Pick your Topic (see option below)
2/4 - 2/6………….…………….……. Research & Fill in your Outline (Critical Course Task)
2/6………………………….…......….. Outline due in the Portfolio Dropbox
2/7 - 2/17…………….…………..…..Draft your Argument
2/18 - 2/19..………………….....….. Revise & Edit your Argument
2/19……………………………..…….. Submit Your Final Argument in the Portfolio dropbox

Required Topic Choices; Choose One:

Why people should read a particular book
Why people should eat a certain kind of breakfast
Why people should volunteer at a particular place
Why people should admire your favorite celebrity (author, actor, athlete, politician, journalist, humanitarian music group, or singer)
You MUST use the following outline & guidelines for your first portfolio submission: Click here to access the Guidelines & Outline

The Outline Portfolio is a Checkpoint Assignment & a Critical Course Task. The outline is due on 2/6, and student Connexus accounts will be disabled if the outline is not submitted by Friday, 2/14. You would then need to attend LHT with your completed outline in order to get your account unlocked so you can submit. Since it is a Checkpoint Assignment, the last day you can submit GIOs for it is 2/27.

Both the Outline & Final Copy of your Argument MUST be typed in Google Docs with editing rights. Click here to watch a video on how to do this. Click here to read the written instructions.
Click here for the Detailed Guidelines & Rubric for the Argumentative Essay portfolio.
Click here to access the ELA Portfolio Page - it has MLA resources, the guidelines for all portfolios, & other helpful resources. I recommend bookmarking it.


We will be going over how to write these portfolios every day in Live Lesson, so make sure you attend, or at least watch the recordings. Click here to access the Live Lesson Recording Page.

Happy Writing!

Answer 1

It looks like you have a structured plan for your Argument Portfolio, and it’s important to follow the timeline and guidelines provided. Here’s a breakdown of how you can successfully navigate the outline and subsequent essay:

Suggested Steps to Complete Your Outline and Argument Essay

1. Choose Your Topic (by 2/3):

   • Select one of the provided topics that resonates with you. For example:
     • Why people should read "To Kill a Mockingbird"
     • Why people should eat oatmeal for breakfast
     • Why people should volunteer at a local animal shelter
     • Why people should admire Malala Yousafzai

2. Research and Fill in Your Outline (2/4 - 2/6):

   • Gather information on your chosen topic:
     • Look for credible sources that support your argument.
     • Note down statistics, expert opinions, and anecdotes.
   • Use the provided outline format to organize your ideas. Key elements usually include:
     • Introduction: Introduce the topic and your thesis statement.
     • Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should have a clear main idea, supporting evidence, and analysis.
     • Counterargument: Acknowledge opposing views and refute them.
     • Conclusion: Summarize your arguments and reinforce your thesis.

3. Submit Your Outline (by 2/6):

   • Ensure your outline is complete, follows the required format, and is submitted on time to avoid account issues.

4. Draft Your Argument (2/7 - 2/17):

   • Transform your outline into a full-fledged essay. Focus on:
     • Maintaining a clear argument throughout.
     • Using transitions for flow.
     • Incorporating quotes and evidence effectively.

5. Revise & Edit Your Argument (2/18 - 2/19):

   • Review for clarity, coherence, grammar, and adherence to MLA formatting.
   • Consider seeking feedback from peers or using writing resources.

6. Submit Your Final Argument (by 2/19):

   • Make sure your final document is polished and follows the guidelines provided. Double-check Google Docs permissions to ensure the instructor can access your work.

Additional Guidelines

• Stay Organized: Keep track of your research and notes to make drafting easier.
• Utilize Resources: Make use of the ELA Portfolio Page and any guidelines or rubrics provided to ensure you meet all requirements.
• Engage in Live Lessons: Attend discussions to clarify any doubts, and use them as learning opportunities.

Closing Thoughts

Using this structured approach will set you up for success with your Argument Portfolio. Remember to pace yourself, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you encounter any challenges along the way. Good luck with your writing!