Research Workshop - Day 1
Aim: How do you create a proper thesis or argument for an essay, paper, or project?
Do Now: Define the following terms:
- Argument (for Writing)
- Thesis (Topic Sentence)
Lesson Overview:
| Item | Approx Time |
| Do Now | 3-5 Min |
| Mini Lesson | 15-20 Min |
| Activity | 15 Min |
| Discussion | 5-7 Min |
Argument & Reasoning Skills
Some notes that might help:
Inductive Reasoning
- Focusing on specific information or observations
- Searching for patterns or connections in it
- Constructing a general statement that explains what you’ve observed
- Making further observations to see if you general statement applies; if it doesn’t adjust it accordingly
Example: Every mammal that has ever been examined has hair. Therefore, all mammals have hair.
Deductive Reasoning
- Identifying the specific situation
- Identifying the generalizations or principles that apply to it
- Determining if the specific situation meets the conditions necessary for those generalizations or principles to apply
- If they do apply, identifying any conclusions that can be drawn or predictions that can be made.
Example: All men are mortal; Socrates is a man; therefore, Socrates is mortal. Sherlock Homes uses this kind of reasoning.
Classwork & Homework
Lesson PowerPoint: Research Skills
Lesson Activity: Reasoning Activity
Homework: Assignments