Learning Objectives:
Students will utilize their understanding of assigned readings to create a debatable thesis.
Students will interact with technology (ChatGPT) to generate counter-arguments and practice responding effectively.
Students will anticipate and address opposing viewpoints.
Purpose:
The purpose of this assignment is to foster thoughtful dialogue and strengthen your ability to construct well-supported arguments.
Assignment Overview:
Thesis Refinement and Textual Evidence Review
Topic:
Chapter 19: “Should We Cancel Cancel Culture?”
https://www.forbes.com/sites/danabrownlee/2021/07/01/is-cancel-culture-really-just-long-overdue-accountability-for-the-privileged/?sh=285882b43a22
https://www.forbes.com/sites/evangerstmann/2020/09/13/cancel-culture-is-only-getting-worse/
– Based on the topic, develop a strong thesis statement (an argument) in which you make a debatable argument. Support your response with textual evidence (direct quotes) from the reading.
ChatGPT Interaction and Counterarguments:
– Visit ChatGPT
Links to an external site.
or a similar AI language model during class.
– Input your thesis statement and prompt the AI to generate a counterargument.
– Engage in critical thinking and consider alternative viewpoints.
– Receive the AI-generated counterargument from ChatGPT..
Rebuttal and Incorporating Evidence:
– Analyze the AI-generated counterargument.
– Craft a well-reasoned rebuttal that addresses the counterargument.
– Incorporate additional textual evidence from your readings to strengthen your position.
– Emphasize the importance of evidence-based reasoning and respectful discourse.
Submission:
– Students submit their entire transcript of interactions with ChatGPT (including their original thesis, the AI counterargument, and their rebuttal) or a link to the conversation in Canvas.
Assessment:
– Evaluation based on the following criteria:
– Clarity and coherence of the revised thesis statement.
– Effective use of textual evidence.
– Thoughtful response to the counterargument.
Sample argument:
Topic: Genetically modified humans? Good idea? Yes or no?
Genetic modifications that extend beyond curing diseases are detrimental to the human race and can easily lead to a cause for discrimination and a loss of the human experience.
Discrimination and class divide are an inevitable result of heritable genetic modifications. Simply by reflecting on the history of the human race it is evident that the strong will always attempt to oppress the poor in order to maintain control. Slavery, indentured servitude, and predatory debt are all examples from history and our current society of how the high take advantage of the low; how will genetic modification be any different? Richard Hayes agrees and stated that “If misapplied, [genetic modifications] would exacerbate existing inequalities and reinforce existing modes of discrimination.” The upper class will have access to and take advantage of the new and expensive gene modifications, which could then easily become grounds for a modern day eugenics movement. The genetic modification movement should be halted before we come close to this point. No matter the promises of a better life for all, we cannot forget that there will always be those looking for a way to find a step up, even at the expense of others. It is a fact of human nature that we have seen again and again in human history.
