(Re)-Definition/Rebuttal of a Term or Concept: (4-7 pages, double spaced) Purpose This essay encourages you to think about the

power of words how we use words to define ideas and perceptions, and how these arguments function from connotative and ideological perspectives. The problem lies in the fact that human beings are not defined merely by definitions or statistics we are complex individuals who daily utilize and respond to ethos, logos, and pathos appeals. Most dictionaries indeed, most essays cannot present a comprehensive example of, say, discrimination. But someone who has been subjected to discrimination can provide examples, contextualize the situation, utilize pathos appeals, and help us as readers to understand. Much of the purpose of this essay is not to merely update the usage of a word or to prove why another writers stance on the topic is wrong, but to use the art of persuasion to challenge the reader to re-think how a term or concept can exist in the real world and the positive and/or negative consequences of how human beings apply their connotative definitions to each other and the world. Assignment A rebuttal argument often carries a connotation of conflict and confrontation; however, this form of argument rarely has any effect on encouraging someone to change how they see a topic. Thus, your essays will focus on the following, more productive means of establishing an argument:

Identifying not only a concept that we would like the audience to consider, but also a real-world argument that presents this concept in a means with which you disagree. These texts could be magazine or newspaper articles, journals articles, online articles, representations through film or other visual media Responsibly and fairly summarize the alternative position (which you are rebutting) Establish a common ground there is usually some room for overlap between arguments. Possibly even concede a point or two. However, you will then identify the specific claim and criteria with which we disagree and developing our own specific claims and criteria for our rebuttal. And you will provide good support for your rebuttal/counterargument Be certain to explore ideas, arguments, and possibilities that the alternative position does not consider or that they dismiss or ignore Try to persuade the reader how how and why of your positions merit and value.

Adhering to the above guidelines provides an opportunity for a disagreement to be debated in a positive and professional tone (ethos). By trying to make a connection between the viewpoints, by discovering and uncovering assumptions, and by actively listening and thoroughly presenting, you are far more likely to accomplish a productive and civil conversation. Resources Structure for the Definition/Rebuttal Essay Definition Essay Concepts and Strategies Penn State Libraries English 015 Resource Page